There are over 4 million people of Indian descent living in the US. This means that there is a very good chance you or someone you know is planning an Indian wedding. If you are one of these people, then this guide is for you.
Weddings in India are traditionally lavish affairs, often lasting several days and involving hundreds or even thousands of guests. However, Indian weddings held in the US are often shorter and smaller, although they still retain many of the traditional elements.
This complete guide on Indian wedding planning will help you connect all the dots and plan a memorable event for both you and your guests.
Indian Wedding Traditions
Indian weddings are large and extravagant affairs. They usually take place in the bride’s home country, although more and more couples are choosing to have destination weddings.
The pre-wedding celebrations begin with a function called the sangeet, where family and friends get together for music, dancing, and feasting. The bride and groom often wear coordinating outfits, and the bride may wear a special sari or lehenga (traditional Indian dress).
The wedding day itself is quite elaborate, with several ceremonies taking place. The first is the baraat, where the groom arrives at the wedding venue on a white horse, accompanied by music and dancing. Next is the milni, where family members from both sides meet and greet each other.
The wedding ceremony is called the vivaah, and takes place in front of a sacred fire. The bride and groom exchange garlands, take seven steps around the fire together, and make promises to each other. This is followed by the kanyadaan, where the bride’s father gives her away to the groom.
After the ceremony, there is a feast called the bidaai, where the guests bid farewell to the bride as she leaves with her husband for their new home. The festivities often continue late into the night, with music and dancing.
Gift Giving
One of the most important aspects of an Indian wedding is the exchange of gifts between the bride and groom’s families. This is done during a ceremony called the muhurat.
The bride and groom’s families will exchange gifts of gold, clothes, and other items of value. The value of the gifts depends on the family’s financial situation.
It’s also common for the bride and groom to exchange gifts with each other. This is done after the wedding ceremony when the couple is alone.
Picking a Date and Location
When it comes to choosing a date for your Indian wedding, there are a few things to keep in mind. The most important factor is the astrological chart, which is consulted to determine the most auspicious date and time for the ceremony.
There are a few popular choices for Indian wedding venues, depending on the size and style of the wedding. Many couples opt for a grand ballroom or banquet hall to accommodate all their guests as well as the dancing and traditions that will ensue.
Weather Considerations
The weather is another important factor to consider when planning an Indian wedding. The majority of weddings take place during the cooler months, from October to March. This is because the heat and humidity of the summer months can be quite uncomfortable when donning traditional Indian wedding garb, and can make it difficult to enjoy the festivities.
If you do choose to have your wedding during the summer, be sure to pick a venue that has air conditioning.
Budget
When it comes to budgeting for your Indian wedding, there are a few things to keep in mind. The guest list is usually quite large, so you’ll need to budget for food and drink. The venue is also a major expense, so be sure to choose one that fits your budget. An all-inclusive venue comes in quite handy here as you can save on individual services.
Once these things are budgeted for, you can move on to the dress and all the traditional details necessary.
Know Your Must-Haves
When it comes to budgeting, it’s easy to go overboard with Desi wedding planning. Extravagance is the name of the game. Sit with your partner and those most important to you and know your must-haves. This list of priorities will help you stay on track and not spend money where it’s not necessary.
For example, if a large guest list is not a priority, you can focus your budget on the food, drink, and decor. Conversely, if you have your heart set on a specific venue or designer wedding dress, you can pare down the guest list to accommodate your budget.
The key is to be realistic and honest with yourselves about what is truly important.
Get Help From a Wedding Planner
One of the best ways to ensure your Indian wedding goes off without a hitch is to hire a wedding planner. A good planner will be familiar with all the traditions and customs and can help you navigate the often-complicated process of planning an Indian wedding.
They will also be able to recommend vendors that fit your budget and style and can take care of all the details on the day of the wedding so you can relax and enjoy your special day.
How Long Does It Take to Plan an Indian Wedding?
The amount of time it takes to plan an Indian wedding depends on the size and complexity of the event. A small, intimate wedding can be planned in a matter of weeks, while a large, lavish affair can take several months to plan.
Start by setting a date for the event, and then begin researching venues and vendors. Once you’ve found the perfect team to help you plan your big day, sit down and start working out the details.
Take your time when it comes to making decisions, and don’t be afraid to ask for help from family and friends. With a little planning and forethought, you can ensure that your Indian wedding is everything you’ve ever dreamt of.
The Indian Wedding Planning Center
Check off one of your top priorities when it comes to Indian wedding planning by booking the Madison Event Center. Our wedding packages are expertly crafted to suit your budget and needs, and our team of experts will help you plan every last detail. We are an indoor facility all-inclusive facility with the capacity to host up to 500 guests.
With several halls to choose from for your ceremony and reception, you’ve found the right spot to execute your Indian wedding venue ideas. Book a tour today and come experience the magic that happens inside the Madison.