Planning a Desi wedding can be a grand and elaborate affair, filled with cultural traditions and celebrations. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to plan a Desi wedding:
- Set a Budget
- Choose a Date
- Guest List and Invitations
- Venue Selection
- Cultural Traditions
- Bridal and Groom Attire
- Catering and Menu
- Decorations and Themes
- Mehndi and Henna
- Entertainment
- Photography and Videography
- Transportation
- Makeup and Beauty
- Marriage License
- Wedding Planner or Coordinator
- Gift Registry
- Wedding Favours
- Seating Arrangements
- Rehearsal and Coordination
- Backup Plans
- Enjoy the Journey
- Set a Budget:
Determine your budget based on what you can afford and your family’s expectations.
- Choose a Date:
Select a date that is auspicious and convenient for both families. Consult an astrologer, if desired.
- Guest List and Invitations:
Create a detailed guest list. Desi weddings are often large gatherings.Design and send out invitations well in advance.
- Venue Selection:
Decide on venues for different ceremonies, such as the engagement, sangeet, mehndi, and more but most importantly the wedding itself.Ensure they can accommodate your guest count and have facilities for rituals.
- Cultural Traditions:
Discuss with your families which cultural traditions, rituals, and ceremonies you want to incorporate.Plan the order and details of each ceremony.
- Bridal and Groom Attire:
Shop for bridal and groom attire, including the wedding outfits, jewellery, and accessories.Plan for multiple outfits for various events like Maiyoun, Mehndi, Sangeet, Bridal Shower, Qawali Night and more.
- Catering and Menu:
Hire a caterer who specializes in Desi cuisine. Plan a diverse menu that caters to different tastes.Consider dietary restrictions and preferences of your guests.
- Decorations and Themes:
Decide on themes and decorations for each event. Colors and themes can vary by event.Consider floral arrangements, drapery, and lighting.
- Mehndi and Henna:
Arrange for a professional mehndi artist for the bride and close female relatives.Plan a mehndi ceremony with music and dancing.
- Entertainment:
Hire DJs or live bands to provide music and entertainment during sangeet and the reception.Arrange for traditional musicians or dancers for cultural performances.
- Photography and Videography:
Select professional photographers and videographers to capture every moment.
Share a shot list and timeline with them.
- Transportation:
Arrange transportation for the bridal party and guests between venues.
Consider cultural elements like a decorated horse or car for the groom’s arrival.
- Makeup and Beauty:
Book pre-bridal services in a well-known beauty salon.
Book makeup and hairstylists experienced in Desi bridal looks.
Plan a trial session well in advance.
- Marriage License:
Obtain the necessary marriage licenses and complete any legal requirements.
- Wedding Planner or Coordinator:
Consider hiring a wedding planner or coordinator who specializes in Desi weddings to help with logistics and coordination.
- Gift Registry:
Set up a gift registry for guests who want to give presents.
- Wedding Favours:
Plan wedding favours for guests as a token of appreciation.
- Seating Arrangements:
Create a seating chart for guests, taking into account family dynamics and traditions.
- Rehearsal and Coordination:
Conduct rehearsals for the wedding ceremony and any dances or performances.
Assign family members or friends specific roles for coordination.
- Backup Plans:
Prepare for unexpected weather changes or unforeseen circumstances by having backup plans in place.
- Enjoy the Journey:
Throughout the planning process, remember to enjoy the journey and celebrate your cultural heritage.
Desi weddings are known for their vibrant colours, rich traditions, and warm hospitality. It’s essential to communicate openly with both families, involve them in the planning process, and ensure that cultural customs are respected and cherished. Planning a Desi wedding can be a beautiful and memorable experience that celebrates love and cultural heritage.
