I've never been to an Indian wedding. What should I expect?
Get ready for a vibrant, joyous celebration filled with color, music, dancing, and delicious food! Our wedding will be a fusion of traditional Indian customs and modern elements, creating a unique and unforgettable experience. Don't worry if you're unfamiliar with the rituals – we'll guide you through everything and make sure you have a blast!
What is the significance of each event?
Each event holds a special meaning in Indian culture and represents a different stage in the wedding journey. You can find descriptions of each event on our website, but in short:
The Welcome Lunch is a casual gathering to kick off the festivities.
The Sangeet (dance)/Mehndi (henna) is a pre-wedding party filled with music, dance, and performances.
The Haldi (turmeric) ceremony involves applying turmeric paste and henna for good luck and blessings.
The Shaadi (wedding ceremony) is the main event, where we exchange vows and celebrate our union with dinner, dancing, and merriment.
Is it customary to bring a gift?
Your presence is the greatest gift of all! However, if you're feeling generous, a contribution to our honeymoon fund or Indie Dog Rescue fund would be greatly appreciated. PLEASE DON'T BRING GIFTS TO THE WEDDING
What kind of food will be served?
Prepare your taste buds for an explosion of flavors! We'll be serving a different cuisine, ranging from Thai to Indian, for every event and will have both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. We'll also have plenty of options for those with dietary restrictions. Don't be shy about trying new things – you're in for a culinary adventure!
What happens during the wedding ceremony?
Our ceremony will be a traditional Hindu wedding, with beautiful rituals like the exchange of garlands, walking around a sacred fire, and taking seven steps together to symbolize our lifelong commitment. We'll have a priest guiding us through each step and explaining the significance. It's a truly magical experience!
I've heard there's a lot of symbolism in Indian weddings. Can you explain some of it?
You're right! Indian weddings are full of symbolism. For example, the red color you'll see everywhere represents fertility and prosperity. The turmeric used in the Haldi ceremony symbolizes purity and good health. And, the henna designs on our hands and feet are believed to bring good luck and protect us from evil spirits.
What's the dress code?
Above all, we want you to be comfy and feel like a million bucks. Wear whatever makes you feel fabulous!
But for those who love a little more guidance, here's the lowdown for each event:
Welcome Lunch: Think Sunday brunch chic. Come ready to chill, chat, and get your grub on in casual attire.
Sangeet: Time to unleash your inner disco diva! Shimmer, shine, sequins, and sparkle – it's all welcome. The more festive, the better!
Haldi/Mehndi: It'll be warm and outdoorsy, so dress for comfort. You can rock traditional Indian attire or something Western that's flowy and easy to move in. Bonus points for bright colors!
Wedding Ceremony & Reception: This is the most formal event, so bring out your A-game. Think cocktail attire or Bollywood glam. If you've got a fancy Indian outfit you've been dying to wear, this is the time to shine!
No matter what you choose, we can't wait to celebrate with you in style!
Where do I buy Indian clothes in the US?
I'm coming from out of town. Where should I stay?
We've reserved a block of rooms at The Rajbari Bawali Hotel with a special rate. Check out the Travel page for details and booking information.
What if I have a dietary restriction?
Just let us know when you RSVP, and we'll make sure there are delicious options for you to enjoy.
Can I take photos and share them on social media?
Sure, just make sure we look great.
Glossary of Indian terms:
Kurta Pyjama: 👖 A casual outfit for men, consisting of a loose shirt (kurta) and pants (pajama).
Lehenga: 👗 A long skirt paired with a blouse (choli) and a dupatta (scarf), often worn by brides.
Saree/sari: 🥻 A traditional Indian garment worn by women, consisting of a long drape wrapped around the body.
Sherwani: 🧥 A long coat-like garment worn by men, usually paired with a churidar (tight-fitting pants).