A guide to wedding tips, trends and experiences. Marriage event reviews, Wedding venue reviews and ideas, honeymoon destination tips, photography, wedding decor and much more.

Photography Credit : Rob & Lauren

Weddings all over the world are filled with unique rituals and customs and this is one from traditional Hindu weddings from some parts of India. The traditional ritual of the ‘solah shringar’ or the sixteen decorations is so that the bride is enhanced and beautified from head to toe during her wedding with different components like clothes, jewellery etc. Traditionally it was often done with the help of her female friends and relatives. These sixteen steps are said to be corresponding to the 16 phases of the moon, which is believed impact a woman’s menstrual cycle; the solah shringar is believed to negate these negative impacts. It is also associated with Laxmi the Goddess of beauty, fertility and prosperity.

The different steps of the Solah Shringar:

Bridal Outfit – The bride to be is dressed in her wedding saree, lehenga or salwar kameez.

Hair and Skin – The bride’s hair is styled and decorated with flowers or ornaments. A paste of turmeric, gram flour, oils etc. is used to scrub, clean and beautify the skin beforehand.

Bindi – A bindi has sacred and religious connotations and is the symbol of a woman’s transition to her new status as a married woman. Traditionally a round, red dot, bindis are now available in a variety of styles and also decorated with glitter, crystals and colours.

Sindoor – Sindoor or vermillion is applied to the center parting in the bride’s hair. It has many religious and sacred connotations, one of which is that the sindoor is a symbol of marriage and the husband’s life.

Maangtika – The maangtika is a pretty accessory or piece of jewellery worn on the center part of the hair. It is normally in gold with precious or semi precious stones, pearls, diamonds etc.

Kajal – Kajal or kohl is used to line the bride’s eyes, among other cosmetics.

Nose Ring – The nose ring or nath is also a piece of jewellery traditionally worn by married women on the left nostril. Although there are variations from different parts of the country, one of the more common ones is a nose ring with an attached chain that is extended to the left ear.

Earrings – Earrings are used to add more beauty to a bride’s face. Normally heavy and in gold, the earrings or karn phool are beautifully designed.

Necklace/ Haar – A necklace or different necklaces of varying lengths are worn. They could be made from different materials like pearls, precious metals and even flower garlands.

Mehendi – The mehendi or henna is a big part in most Indian weddings. The bride’s hands and feet are adorned in beautiful henna patterns. It is often said that the darker your mehendi colour, the more your husband will love you!

Bangles / Choodi – Bangles are commonly used to adorn the bride’s hands are symbolic of her being married and as a safeguard to her husband’s life. Depending ondifferent cultures they may be red and ivory bangles, green glass bangles, gold choodis or made from other materials like ceramic and varied metals.

Baajuband / Armband – An armband is worn on the upper arm, generally made with from precious metal and may be adorned with semi precious stones or pearls.

Rings – The bride’s hands are decorated with eight rings also known as aarsi or anghooti, sometimes including a mirrored ring on her thumb. Some rings are also interlinked with chains.

Kamarband / Waist band – The bride is made to wear an elaborate waist belt or kamarband, normally a metal one.

Payals / Anklets – Anklets or payals are worn on both feet, often with tiny tinkling bells.

Itar – Itar or perfume is used to keep the bride fresh.

Shoes – Me Too Jeanette

You may have heard of this line, especially in wedding related rom-com movies! The Western custom of ‘something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue’ has become synonymous with a collection of these things that a bride puts together for her wedding day and is meant to bring her luck.

The origin of this sweet custom it is said dates back to the Victorian era and the entire phrase actually reads as –

‘Something old, something new

Something borrowed, something blue

And a silver sixpence in her shoe.’

Each line or item in this poem is said to represent certain things that will bring good luck and future happiness to the bride if she carries them on her wedding day and many brides follow this custom even today.

Something Old – Something old is a symbol of the bride’s connection to her past as a single woman and more importantly to her family. It is meant to represent continuity between her past and her current life and brides often wear or carry something old like family jewels, a handkerchief or even the wedding gown from family members like their mother or grandmother.

Something New – Something new symbolizes the luck and happiness a bride will carry over into her new life with her husband. It represents the hope for a good future in her married life.

Something Borrowed – This is normally an item the bride borrows from a friend or family member that is happily married. Something borrowed represents the marital bliss this happily married woman is lending the bride as she embarks into her new union. It is also to remind the bride that her family and friends will always be there for her if she ever needs help.

Something Blue – The colour blue has been associated with marriages for centuries in many cultures, since it is said to be a symbol of loyalty and faithfulness. The bride often wore blue as a symbol fidelity and love. It was also connected with purity since in Christianity the Virgin Mary was depicted wearing the colour blue. Nowadays brides prefer to carry or wear blue accents rather than wear an entirely blue wedding dress.

Lastly, the final line of the rhyme of a silver sixpence in the shoe represents financial security. A sixpence coin was kept in the bride’s shoe to bring her wealth in her new marriage. It is also said that it should be the left shoe for the best results! This custom may have originated in Scotland where the groom puts a silver coin under his foot for good luck.

What are the fun and interesting ways you can adopt these wedding traditions into your wedding wear?

Themed sangeets and wedding receptions are so much fun and a great way to give yourself and your guests a day or night of sheer fantasy. If you would prefer keeping the ceremony a bit more traditional, having a themed reception or a cocktail party can be extremely interesting. What better way to infuse a little fantasy with one of the most exotic themes that is filled with lots of luxurious colours and a great ambience i.e. a Moroccan theme? It can look and feel opulent and very, very glamorous even if your budget isn’t quite that high.

If outdoors, you can start by looking into the possibility of a huge tent for the party. Having the event in a huge Bedouin like tent will set the tone before your guests even enter. Make sure the interiors reflect the colourful Moroccan and Middle Eastern flavours with rich colours like gold, reds, purples, oranges etc. Earthy and spicy or royal and rich are the colour combinations you should aim for. If you are having the reception in a hall, fret not. Using drapes in these delicious colour combinations will help you create the ambience you need. You can also drape heavy curtains or fabric in materials like velvet or brocade over your windows, for a tent like feel.

Look at pictures of Morocco for inspiration regarding the different décor elements. Beautiful rugs reflecting your chosen colours and lots of colourful pillows also look great. If possible have at least a few small sections of floor seating with large cushions and comfortable rugs for that authentic Moroccan feel. You can even have your chair covers and table linens in rich hues like purple, wine and gold and even plates and cutlery in plush looking colours like silver or gold. Glasses and gauntlets with intricate patterns add to that Arabian Nights feel as well.

Use embroidered, beaded or metallic table runners to add a luxe touch. Spice up the place with lots of ornate colourful lamps, lots of candles and always stay away from harsh fluorescent lighting! For centerpieces you can go with a crystal or crystal like candle-holders, rhinestone studded glittery table lamps, mini hookahs or even something simple like small tea light candles strewn with jewel toned beaded or stone necklaces (something your guests can take home and enjoy later too!). Small bags of candy in colourful organza or tissue pouches are a sweet touch too.

Don’t forget about the food, having something outright Continental or Indian will seem a little incongruous. Moroccan cuisine is delicious and full of various spices with Middle Eastern and Mediterranean touches. Talk to your wedding venue or caterers who can provide what you are looking for. Apart from other beverages, serve guests mint tea after dinner, a highly popular Moroccan drink. If you are planning to cut your wedding cake at this time, you can even give your cake design some Moroccan flair with its unique design and colour scheme elements. If you are working with a wedding decorator in India, do check pictures from their previous work and pick out certain props and elements to finally achieve the look and feel that you want for your themed event.

Last but not the least, if you have the budget and would like to add a little spice, hire a Moroccan dance troupe to perform and teach your guests some moves. You and your wedding party can even learn some moves beforehand and have your own dance sequence to liven up the night!

Do checkout today\’s matrimonial section in the Times of India – Checkmate where we answer questions from readers.

The Royal wedding of Prince William & Kate Middleton was beautiful – just perfect! And yes, it will set a lot of trends for weddings going forward. Even for the colorful Indian wedding!

Wedding Gown: Kate\’s wedding gown was perfect, a lovely mix of traditional and modern. She looked elegant and sophisticated in her structured yet delicate gown.

Indian Bridal wear in lace – simply stunning! I think we will be seeing a lot more of this trend. Also, it seems to be fuller skirts and lace sleeves all the way – Nicole Ritchie and Ivanka Trump recently wore their bridal gowns in slightly similar style – super chic, we say!

Ok, so Indian bridal wear is comprised of lehengas, saris and the likes. However, it looks like we are going to see more gowns now – definitely for the grand reception in ivory, cream and other pastel colours.

Bridal Hair & Makeup: Natural all the way! Kate wanted to look like herself and we believe that’s the way to go! I think we will see hair done in a more relaxed, natural style and makeup – she did it herself!

Wedding Flowers: Impressive use of lush foliages! I love the way they gave the Abbey in the middle of the city of London, a very inviting feel. The flowers were sourced locally and the décor said one thing – nature! We think more couples will want to go this way! And we don’t disagree! Also, must mention here, the flower spray in the bridesmaid’s hair. We see this being in demand too.

Wedding Cake: Big trend – not one but two cakes! William wanted his favorite chocolate cake in addition to the traditional wedding cake. We say, why not? Go all the way and have it all!

Hats: Well, what can we say about this one? We don’t really see guests at an Indian wedding turning up in hats. But, we do see this trend catching on at a theme party – possibly one of the many pre wedding parties – a Royal Party for the Sangeet or Cocktail maybe?

We cant wait to incorporate these trends in weddings to come!

The bride\’s much awaited second dress of the day was also designed by Sarah Burton for McQueen. It was a gorgeous white strapless satin gown with a beautiful diamonte embellished belt at the waist of her full skirt. She paired the dress with a cropped fur sweater. We love that she wore her hair in a relaxed style with soft curls.

William opted for a for a classic, double-breasted dinner jacket and bow tie.

Also, we noted that the bride\’s sister Pippa Middleton looked lovely in her emerald green gown designed by Alice Temperley. We think these sisters have a great sense of style!

Finally its official, Prince William and Kate Middleton have tied the knot! With millions of people watching from all over the world, all eyes were on the lovely bride to see what she was wearing. After months of speculation and rumors about her wedding gown, Kate looked every inch the elegant princess.

The gorgeous bride wore a gown by Sarah Burton for the British Alexander McQueen label. The beautiful wedding dress was a seamless blend of classic and modern sensibilities that suited Kate to a tee. The dress had a tasteful deep v neckline and a lace covered bodice and sleeves. The ivory satin and lace creation featured French Chantilly and English Cluny over the sleeves, bodice and the underskirt and featured the centuries’ old Carrickmacross craftsmanship. The gorgeous lace appliqués were hand sewn by the Royal School of Needlework including the lace and silk tulle flowers strewn all over the dress featuring shamrocks, daffodils, roses and thistles. The dress also comprised of a train that was over six feet long.

Kate topped of her stunning wedding dress with a sheer lace edged veil and a sparkly Cartier tiara borrowed from the Queen. The new princess chose not to over accessorize and wore a lovely delicate pair of oak shaped diamond earrings featuring stylized oak leaves and a diamond encrusted acorn which were a gift from her parents and meant to represent the new Middleton family crest. She completed the elegant look with handmade ivory satin and lace McQueen shoes.

Prince William looked dapper and every inch the royal in his red colonel of the Irish Guards uniform, while his brother Prince harry chose to wear his captain of the Household Cavalry uniform. Another person who turned many a head with her stunning look was the bride’s sister and bridesmaid Pippa Middleton who wore a cowl neck ivory dress made from satin based crepe also by Burton.

The bride’s mother Carole Middleton looked absolutely beautiful and elegant. She wore a sky blue wool crepe coat dress over a matching silk shantung day dress by Catherine Walker and a hat by Jane Corbett. Queen Elizabeth chose to wear an Angela Kelly yellow crepe wool dress with beading at the neck, overcoat and hat. Prince Charles’s wife Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall wore a pastel embroidered overcoat over an Anna Valentine soft blue silk dress.

Stay tuned for more from the Royal Wedding from Marry Me\’s Indian wedding planning team.

Want to have a beautiful wedding in the middle of the Arabian Sea? The Lakshadweep Islands off the coast of mainland India is a stunning destination and one that wasn’t been completely taken over by tourist traps yet. Pristine, serene and exotic, Lakshadweep is one of the best destinations to have a unique beach wedding in India. This tropical paradise is a great place for weddings of all sizes and the breathtaking views are perfect for a romantic special occasion such as this.

A collection of thirty six islands, Lakshadweep is the only collection of islands in India that is said to have a coral reef. Located off the southwest coast of India, it is approximately 300 – 400 kms from Kerala. You can fly from Cochin in Kerala to the island of Agatti or travel by ships that operate between Cochin and different islands that comprise Lakshadweep. Not all islands are open to visitors or inhabited and special restrictions apply to foreign nationals. You can check out islands like Bangaram, Kavaratti, Kalpeni, Agatti, Minicoy and Kadmat for possible wedding destinations. Every island has its own unique characteristics and features that make them gorgeous wedding destinations. For example, Agatti is rich in marine life and lovely coral reefs, Kavaratti is the more developed area since it is an administrative capital and Kalpani is known for its big lagoon and pretty islets.

Rich in flora, fauna and marine life these islands are home to vistas that will take your breath away. There are many resorts and hotels close to the azure waters and sun kissed sands to plan yours and your guests’ stays and lots of outdoor activities. Not only can you book beachside hotels for your dream beach wedding but also hire a cruise ship or a boat to hold your wedding at. Imagine solemnizing your marriage in the middle of the emerald sea…romantic! If you are looking to a have a wedding without the usual pomp and circumstance and something more pure and intimate, this is a great destination for you.

Known as one of the most popular dive spots in the country Lakshadweep is great for water babies in particular. You can treat yourself and your wedding guests to activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, para sailing, fishing and other water sports. For your honeymoon you and your significant other can sail over to one of the more unadulterated islands as well. A great place for couples looking to tie in adventure with one of the most romantic days of their lives; these coral islands are remote and relatively untouched yet equipped enough for a truly beautiful destination wedding.

Hamara Footpath, a community group that works towards educating children living on the streets near Churchgate, is having a Garage sale for a cause. Trendy women’s clothes from various sources like fashion designers, boutiques and barely worn clothes from people’s cupboards have been collected to sell. 100% of the money raised will go towards supporting Hamara Footpath’s activities.

Designers like Divya Anand, Masaba Gupta, Swapnil Shinde, Varsha Chandnani have donated their creations along with other fashionistas. All these will be sold for the cause. You might even find something you would  like to wear to an Indian wedding that you have to attend!

Artists like Agnee, Aazin Printer & Stuart DaCosta (of Something Relevant), Nikhil D’Souza, Pia Sukanya and Ankur Tewari have volunteered to perform in the evenings.

Foot massages for those just wanna chill out! Metta Foot Reflexology Spa (which employs only visually challenged masseuse) will be offering foot massages at discounted prices.

So be there! Show your support and help spread the word! Hamara Footpath’s Garage Sale is back with cooler clothes, live music and foot massages…all for a good cause!

DATES–

Fri 29th & Sat 30th April, 2011

VENUE–

Candies, near Learner’s Academy, Pali Naka, Bandra, Mumbai

www.facebook.com/CandiesCafe

http://www.twitter.com/CandiesCafe

Want to know more about Hamara Footpath?

www.hamarafootpath.org or www.facebook.com/hamarafootpath.

The Royal Wedding Schedule

We are so very excited! Here is the schedule we have seen so far:

8:30 am : If the bride and groom are given new royal titles, they will be announced

8:45 am : Guests start arriving at the North Door of Westminister Abbey

10:30 am : Mother of the bride, Carole Middleton arrives from the Goring Hotel

10:40 – 10:50 am  : The Queen and Prince Phillip arrive from Buckingham Palace. The groom arrives from Clarence House.

10:50 am : Maid of honour, Pippa Middleton (the bride’s sister) along with the bridesmaids arrive at the Abbey

11:00 am : Kate Middleton and her dad, Michael make their grand arrival in a Rolls Royce Phantom VI. Can’t wait to see her dress!!

The Ceremony begins.

12:00 pm : The newly weds make their way to Buckingham Palace in either the open State Landau Coach (fair weather) or the enclosed Glass Coach (rain)

12:15 – 12:40 pm : Photo time for the newlyweds and their families

1:25 pm : The big moment – the newlywed couple will greet the crowds from the balcony.

1:30 pm : Royal Air Force flyover

1:35 pm : The Queen’s reception for 600 guests with champagne, canapés and cake cutting!

Mid-afternoon : The bride and groom are driven to St. James’ Place by car

7:30 pm : Party time for 300 guests at the Palace. DJ Sam Young has suggested music that he knows the couple will enjoy – William likes hip-hop and R&B while Kate likes rock & roll and 80’s,Motown. This will be followed  by the Survivors Breakfast planned by Prince Harry (the Best Man) at 6:00 am the next day!