Weddings are a big deal in all cultures across the world. An invitation to a wedding is reason enough to start planning a multitude of things (from who your date will be to what you’ll gift the couple) that need to be done before the big day. But if you’re invited to an Indian wedding, there are some special preps you must keep in mind.
Snapshot Survey
Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Please subscribe for your personalized newsletter:
Put Your Wedding Wardrobe Together
/filters:quality(70)/content/kg/p7/cd2hhy6r55c3cfbf4859e072114049_600x878.jpg)
Indian weddings are colorful and vibrant. For an Indian wedding, think happy, bright colors. Nothing is too bright, really. You could even have some fun and maybe select a traditional Indian outfit because why not? Oh, and you’ll probably need more than one outfit because Indian weddings are never a one day affair. Your invite will tell you how many events you’ll be attending so you can prepare accordingly.
Indian weddings are typically multi-day events, with each day having its own set of rituals and traditions. On the first day, the bride and groom exchange garlands and exchange rings, signifying their commitment to each other. On the second day, the bride's family hosts a mehendi ceremony, where the bride's hands and feet are decorated with henna. The third day is the wedding day, where the bride and groom exchange their vows. On the fourth day, the newlyweds are welcomed into their respective homes. Finally, the fifth day is a celebration of the newlyweds, where they are showered with gifts and blessings.
/filters:quality(70)/cover/58def57aef250a09148b4567-woman-touching-her-hair-standing-near-teal-gate-fashion-beauty.jpg)
Pick and Match Your Accessories
/filters:quality(70)/content/o1/js/pu5naygv55c3d3c106c27952956218_400x600.jpg)
Let’s say you’ve selected an Indian outfit for the wedding (because why wouldn’t you, right?). You’ll need to get all the accessories in place too – bangles, bindis and jewelry. Dressing up is one of the best parts of an Indian wedding, not to mention how pretty it looks!
Indian weddings are known for their vibrant colors, intricate designs, and ornate decorations. Girls attending an Indian wedding for the first time should expect to be dressed in traditional Indian attire, such as a sari or lehenga. Accessories, such as bangles, bindis, and jewelry, are also part of the Indian wedding look and should be chosen to match the outfit. It is also important to wear makeup that is appropriate for the occasion. For example, traditional Indian makeup usually includes bright eye shadow, bold lip color, and heavy eyeliner. Finally, don't forget to bring a gift for the bride and groom, such as a gold necklace or a piece of jewelry.
/filters:quality(70)/thumbs/28/m4u0n9p5xcr019c5d90in_1080x1350.jpg)
Get Comfortable Footwear
If you’re choosing to wear traditional Indian clothes, make sure you’re comfortable with your footwear. Sarees can be tricky with high heels if you’re not used to it and you definitely don’t want to be falling on your face at a wedding! So get footwear you can manage or at least spend some time walking and dancing in a saree (if you so choose).
When wearing traditional Indian clothing for an Indian wedding, it is important to make sure that the footwear is comfortable. Heels can be difficult to manage in a saree, so it is best to choose shoes that are easy to walk and dance in. It is also important to consider the length of the saree when choosing footwear. The hem of the saree should not drag on the ground, so make sure to choose a heel height that is appropriate for the length of the saree. Additionally, if you are not used to wearing heels, it is best to practice walking and dancing in them before the wedding.
/filters:quality(70)/thumbs/38/86qk5345ka4ltfyaipnq5a_1080x1284.jpg)
Read up on the Wedding Rituals
/filters:quality(70)/content/qa/ab/z5ywlnal55c3d0bca4184312813050_496x750.jpg)
Assuming it’s a Hindu wedding you’re attending, it’s going to be a little more than exchanging vows before a priest. The actual wedding ceremony can be lengthy and it’ll help you sit through it with more patience if you understand what it all means.
At an Indian wedding, the bride and groom will typically wear traditional clothing and may have a red mark on their forehead. The ceremony will involve the exchange of garlands, a symbolic gesture of acceptance. After that, the bride and groom will take part in a ritual called the Kanyadaan, where the bride's parents give away their daughter in marriage. The priest will also chant mantras and perform a sacred fire ritual known as the Havan. At the end of the ceremony, the bride and groom will exchange rings and a knot will be tied to symbolize their union. Finally, the couple will be blessed by the elders and will be given gifts.
/filters:quality(70)/thumbs/43/q7scevrw8787otjlmu4yrw_1080x1348.jpg)
Get Your Bollywood Moves in Place
/filters:quality(70)/content/gd/k1/lui7face55c3d25fea384074205098_600x900.jpg)
Indian weddings are incomplete without dancing. A lot of dancing. We don’t need an excuse to get up and dance at weddings, really. So get your Bollywood on and get ready to dance till you drop!
At an Indian wedding, dancing is a must. It's a great opportunity to show off your Bollywood moves. From the classic Bollywood moves to the latest dance trends, there's something for everyone. You can also join in the fun and learn some of the traditional Indian wedding dances. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced dancer, you'll be able to join in the fun and get your groove on. Don't be afraid to show off your moves and have a great time!
/filters:quality(70)/thumbs/54/44smufuhxneku52w8gm37_1080x1350.jpg)
Meaning is not what you start with but what you end up with.
Load up on Antacids
/filters:quality(70)/content/bd/od/ftgvzkxm55c3d329dd497028144146_400x600.jpg)
Indian weddings are all about the food. And since the festivities usually extend over a couple of days (at least), we’re talking about a lot of food. Not all Indian food is spicy but it's all very yummy. And so if you’re invited to an Indian wedding, make sure you have your antacids.
Indian weddings are known for their grandeur and the many rituals that are performed. The food is an integral part of the celebrations, and it usually consists of a variety of dishes. Some of these dishes can be quite spicy, so it is wise to stock up on antacids before attending an Indian wedding. In addition to the food, there will also be plenty of music, dancing, and other fun activities to enjoy. It is also customary to give gifts to the bride and groom, so make sure you bring something special for them. Indian weddings are a great way to experience the culture and customs of the country, and it is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
/filters:quality(70)/thumbs/aa/ci/o6p5o9kc5979078e3aa30117187295_1080x1080.jpg)
Prepare Yourself to Meet Tons of People
/filters:quality(70)/content/pw/yl/y4rgtrew55c3d59f74d7c336972980_600x902.jpg)
Indian weddings cannot, by any stretch of the imagination, be defined as ‘small.’ And so, if you’re heading for an Indian wedding, gear up to meet more people than you’ll ever imagine. If you enjoy meeting new people, you’ll have fun. If you don’t, well, weddings are always a great place for people watching, right?
Indian weddings are a riot of color, music, dance, food and people. There is so much happening and so much to do that it is impossible not to have fun. But it’s always a good idea to be prepared for what you’re going to experience so you’re not the odd one out who doesn’t have a clue what’s happening! Have you attended Indian weddings? How did you prep for them?
Feedback Junction
Where Thoughts and Opinions Converge