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.

Indian weddings can be so amazingly beautiful and colourful, it’s no wonder that Indian weddings and India themed weddings are getting increasingly popular around the world, irrespective of nationality! Although India is a diverse country regards to cultures and traditions, there are some décor elements that invoke the typical beauty and colours of the country. These wedding décor elements can be used to create your Indian fantasy wedding.

When you think of India, you often think of gorgeous, lush fabrics and textures. One of the easiest ways to infuse a healthy dose of ‘Indian-ness’ to your function is to include lots of colourful embellished fabrics. Fabrics in rich and bright hues like red, orange, blue, yellow and parrot green. Metallic prints and embroidery, bead, sequin and crystal work, zari work and opulent brocades all work well. Use these lush fabrics for drapes, table covers or runners, chair covers and more. You can also incorporate different sarees as a decorative element for a unique desi touch! Colourful or metallic hued cushions and diwans for floor seating also look great. Using typically Indian fabrics like bandhni and ones with batik prints, mirror work or ethnic block work looks very inviting. Warm up the space with brightly hued rugs and carpets.

Flowers are a huge part of Indian wedding decorations and any other important function or cultural events. The sheer variety of colours, shapes and looks you can incorporate by using fresh blooms is amazing. Find out what seasonal flowers are available for the freshest florals. Flowers like marigolds, lilies and roses are always popular. You could hang garlands across the room, the mandap or tent and even have large urns with pretty floating candles and flowers. Lights are another key element in Indian wedding décor. Diyas, lanterns and candles can be used to create a special ambience. Cut-work lanterns in intricate designs and embellished candles look lovely.

Make use of typical Indian designs and prints for your drapes, linens, party favours, etc. Shapes like the mango or paisley prints, tribal art, lotus print, peacock designs etc. are so wonderfully Indian and also very chic. Many wedding decorators in India will be able to show you a range of fabrics and props for your Big fat Indian wedding.

Yet another day, but it’s not just any other day. Day 2 of the Wills Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2011 was abundant in glamour, sophistication, fierceness, and of course the new and contemporary designs that spoke for themselves. Here are our favourites from Day 2!

Kavita Bhartia

Very earthy and very bohemian! Ethnic tribes inspired Kavita Bhartia’s collection, and it showed through clear and strong as models displayed her entire aesthetic spectrum of attire from dhoti pants, saris, tunics and harem pants right up to cocktail dresses and jersey jumpsuits. We especially love the flowy dresses as well as the cocktail dresses, some in earthy brown and others tilting toward the darker side. The gorgeous embellishments only give her collection a strong Victorian feel. We love!

am:pm by Ankur & Priyanka Modi

Wrap dresses make a come back and how in Ankur & Priyanka Modi’s collection am:pm on Day 2! A symmetrical cuts, fabrics that flirt with your skin, oh-so-gorgeous jackets that can liven up any drab outfit. That’s what am:pm was all about this time! We loved the ruffled plaid jacket too.

Preeti Chandra

Vintage ensembles took centre stage at Preeti Chandra’s show. Her collection was splashed with strong colours like scarlet red, purple, emerald green, navy, but we really love the softer tones used like ivory and beige. Very royal, and the sweeping gowns are sure to make you feel like a princess. The very fierce one-shoulder power shoulder dress, now that would make you feel like a queen if only for a night! We really love the shift dresses, simply because they are quite wearable. Stay tuned for more updates on fashion & Indian Wedding trends from Marry Me – Wedding Planners.

Yet another fashion week has arrived to cool us off this summer! The runways are on fire at the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week, the bi-annual convergence of the fashion industry. Established designers, models, makeup and hair artists, fashion bloggers, trend analysts, buyers and socialites yet again come together for this 5-day fashion event in Delhi. Here are the highlights (well, actually our favourites!)

Geisha Designs by Paras & Shalini

Romance, poetry, unique, royal, vintage, geometric- are just some of the words that can be used to describe the Geisha Designs label. We loved the use of subtle shades of grey, violet, sea green and lava red as the duo aptly paid tribute to Mother Nature. This collection was brimming with intricacy clearly seen through the use of handcrafted techniques like batik, crochet and appliqué work. Soft flowy dresses; jumpsuits, shift dresses, ruffled neckties and crystal neck pieces flowed lucidly throughout the Geisha Designs show. Very wearable and perfect for those who like to stand out in a crowd, with a generous dose of subtle.

Tarun Tahiliani

Couture king Tarun Tahiliani once again created magic on the ramps with his fantastic eastern-inspired collection. Chinese motifs, delicate paisley, quilted and velvet appliqué work made his collection as gorgeous as always. We absolutely love the sari-draped gowns. Very fiery, yet extremely sensual!

Varun Bahl

The designer known for his silhouettes and fantastic cuts, also caught our attention with his desirous collection, perfect for a winter evening. We love the structured look that was generously seen throughout his show as the models sashayed on and off the ramp in short cropped jackets, circular pleated hemlines, structured dresses (very sophisticated and chic!) and shift dresses. Very edgy, yet very wearable! Stay tuned for more fashion trends and updates from Marry Me\’s Indian Wedding planning team.

After going through your wedding checklist am sure you have decided on the ‘big’ tasks like finding the perfect wedding venue, shopped for your wedding outfit, chosen your wedding decorators, caterers and the like; now it’s time for one of the tastiest parts of your wedding planning process – choosing your wedding cake! Traditionally a largely Western practice, most couples in India too are opting to cut their very own wedding cake to sweeten the start of their journey together.

Many brides have a vision of what they want their wedding cake to look like for e.g. a traditional white tiered creation or an unusual colourful cake. If you haven’t thought of it, it’s a great idea to look at magazines or websites to get a basic idea of what you want your cake to look like. Choosing a flavor and the tastings are definitely the fun parts; this is time when you can give yourself some much deserved wiggle room if you are on a wedding countdown diet! Talk to your groom about what flavors he would like and you can come up with a common favourite or even have different layers with fillings and flavors that you both love. You can also opt for two different cakes like the soon to be royal newlyweds.

Your wedding cake can reflect the mood and type of wedding you are planning to have. A more formal wedding calls for something more elaborate or classic whereas with a more casual do you can experiment with and have a little fun. Look at different shapes, structures and decorative elements. Multitier cakes strewn beautifully with fresh or edible flowers, fresh fruits and yummy white or chocolate frosting designs are always popular. If you want different tiers but without the ‘classic’ feel a new relaxed way to do it is by having layers of cupcakes, tarts or assorted pastries. Humorous cakes or humorous cake toppers are also a nice way to add a touch of both your personalities!

You could get your cake made in the colour scheme at your wedding or pick up the designs from the décor, clothes or the wedding invitations. Another lovely option is having your cake reflect a moment, place or some other thing that is special in your and your hubby’s lives together, like the skyline of your favourite city, foliage from your loved natural spot, colours from your favourite sports team, a lovey-dovey picture etc. One way to keep it all budget friendly or if you don’t want one massive cake, is having a smaller special decorated cake that you will cut together and separate slices provided by the cake maker to be served to all the guests.

Another important aspect- choosing your baker or pastry chef. Talk to your wedding planner and friends and family for references. Always talk to your baker about your needs regarding number of guests, size, workmanship and budget. Find out whether they will deliver it and how and when. Ask about payment options and advance payments. Keep in mind that custom designed cakes will most likely cost a little more, regardless of who is making it; but having something uniquely your known is a sweet way to celebrate the start of your marriage.

Do check out todays Times of India – Matrimonial section – Checkmate where we answer questions from readers.

Let’s meet real bride Jennifer Prebis Kanvinde (Jenny). This pretty, blue eyed lady has been married to her charming husband Mangesh Kanvinde (Parag) for almost five years now and their love story was just waiting to be told. Their wedding held on the 15^th & 16^th of July 2006, was a lovely melting pot of cultures and traditions, with Jenny being an American Christian and Parag an Indian Hindu.

We had a tete-a-tete with Jenny about her wedding experience –

How did you guys meet? Tell us your love story (including the proposal details!)

Parag and I actually met at work, I am an x-ray technologist and my husband is a Radiologist. We were friends at work but nothing else for a long time.  When he left the hospital to find another place of employment he very sweetly sent me flowers to the hospital. A couple of months later and our friendship soon turned into love! We started dating in January 2005 and by August of 2005 my husband proposed to me.

The proposal was so sweet and I couldn’t have asked for a more special one!

Parag even included my favorite pet, my horse Tyson. My mom cleaned Tyson up and dressed up his stall with ribbons and roses. My parents called me over to their house claiming my horse was injured. So very worried I flew over to their house and ran back to the barn, only to find the stall decorated with a chair, a dozen roses and a note from my husband. It was a sweet love letter about our relationship and his love for me. Then my mom appeared and asked me to bring my horse to the front yard.  That’s where I found Parag down on bended knee, waiting to propose. The proposal was very close to the heart and very sentimental; I loved that he included my beloved horse and my parents.

How much time did you have to plan your wedding?

I had about 10 months to plan my wedding, which in my opinion was just enough time. I think any longer and it would have driven me crazy! It definitely took up more of my time then I had anticipated.

How did the planning process go? Any details you would like to share?

The planning process was a bit stressful mainly because I knew nothing about a Hindu wedding ceremony and had to rely on my husband’s friends and family to help me plan the wedding. Luckily, everyone was very helpful and the wedding went smoothly. The Christian wedding was still stressful but also fun to plan. Fortunately a friend of mine had just gotten married, so she helped me a lot with the wedding planning and details. Brides should remember to keep their cool, since it can be chaotic sometimes when you have too many hands and brains trying to help you plan.

Also, I would advise everyone to have a good wedding videographer, he captured so many moments that my professional wedding photographer never did. We decided at the last minute to hire a videographer and I’m so glad we did.

Who was involved in the wedding planning process?

My mom, sister and 2 best friends helped me plan the Christian wedding and bridal shower. My husband’s parents, two sisters and several of his close friends helped us plan the Hindu wedding. If it wasn’t for their help and support I would have never made it through the Hindu wedding!

Where was the wedding held and why did you pick this venue/location?

The Hindu wedding was at my aunt and uncle’s house. They have a large house with a gorgeous backyard and large lake; it was an ideal setting for our intimate wedding.  The Christian wedding was at Lander Haven, which had a large reception hall and beautiful outside setting for the ceremony.

Tell us about yours and your groom’s clothes, your makeup/hair etc..

For the Christian wedding, the groom and groomsmen wore black tuxedos with red vests. For the Hindu wedding ceremony my groom wore an Indian churidar kurta. The bridesmaids wore long, red dresses and I wore a traditional white wedding dress with a diamond tiara and veil. My hair was curled and half up half down. For the Hindu ceremony I wore a blue and pink chainiya choli, traditional Indian wedding jewelry, and henna on my hands. I decided to keep my make-up elegant and subtle on both occasions.

Tell us about the ceremonies and reception as well as some of your favourite moments.

We had the Hindu ceremony on Saturday and that was quite a fun learning experience for me, mainly because I didn’t really know what to expect since I had never seen a Hindu wedding before! The food was great, we had it catered by a popular Indian restaurant, and many of my American friends loved the taste of the authentic Indian cuisine. We didn’t have a reception afterward since I had to go back home to my parents’ house that evening and get ready for the Christian wedding the next day.

The following day was chock-a-block and I really had to plan it well. All the bridesmaids and I went in the morning to get our hair and nails done. We then headed over to the hall to start getting dressed and also for my friends and me to hang out one last time as the single Jenny Prebis. At this time many thoughts went through my head as to what this day meant and what the future holds. I can see why some women panic at this point because this is the last day of being single, living on your own and enjoying the many other freedoms you once had as a single woman.

I then started getting dressed, which is always fun and scary since you are trying to get yourself in this small white dress and making sure it still looks good in since you last tried it on a month ago!

The ceremony went really well. We had 4 bridesmaids and 4 groomsmen comprising of my sister, my step daughter, friends and my husband’s nephew and cousin. They walked down the aisle first, and then came my step-son who was the ring bearer, then me the bride. My dad walked me down the aisle, gave me a kiss then handed me off to my husband.  Our ceremony lasted about 20 minutes. After that we took several pictures while the guests mingled and had hor d\’oeuvres. Once the photo session was over we all gathered back in the hall for a bride and groom dance, announcing us as the newly married Kanvinde couple!

Then we sat in our seats and started eating our delicious meal. Once that was done the best man and maid of honor gave their funny/sentimental speeches about us and then the party began. We had lots of dancing and of course more pictures and mingling with our guests. The day and evening went so fast, it felt like such a blur. This was the main reason I was happy we got a videographer, because a couple weeks later we sat down and watched the wedding video and couldn’t believe how many things we had missed at our wedding.

They were two very special and fun days, but I’m so glad they are over.

Did you have any pre-wedding parties?

We had a bridal shower, a bachelor and bachelorette parties. The bridal shower was fun and we got lots of gifts such as household items and money. My bachelorette party was held by my maid of honor. We started at her house with games and drinks and the proceeded to downtown Cleveland to several bars. My husband’s bachelor party consisted of men, drinks and cigars held at our house (mine seemed more fun) Ha ha!

Lastly, Jenny one bit of advice to brides-to-be…

Wedding planning is enjoyable and tiring but keep your eyes on the main picture – which is the reasons you and your fiancé fell in love and the many dreams you will be able to build together in your new life.

The bridal trousseau has deeply traditional roots, both sensible and sentimental ones. It is generally a collection of items like clothes, lingerie, linens, jewellery and other things that a bride may need after her marriage. Although this custom started as a more practical approach and was a way for brides to start their marriage self-sufficiently and not having to ask their in-laws for things, it’s now a fun tradition too.

What you actually put together and buy for your bridal trousseau varies from person to person. Since relatives and friends often want to see the trousseau or is many a time put on display, attractive trousseau packaging is a great touch. Not only is it fun to look at but gives you that sense of it being a super special gift to yourself! Whether you are putting together your own or packing a trousseau for your best friend, here are some fun ideas.

Let’s start with the main packaging you plan to use. If you are thinking of putting the trousseau articles in a big box or bag, why not think of interesting containers that you can use later in your home too. Something like a beautiful carved wooden chest or a lovely tiled mosaic box are special enough for your trousseau and yet can be a nice addition to your décor at home. Another popular option is the use of decorated thaals and trays especially for smaller items. You can decorate these with colourful cloth, metallic netting, lace, ribbons, velvet, satin and jewel embellishments. Including compartmentalized organizers and trays and even dividers in lovely colours not only looks good but also allows you to keep everything mess free and showcase all your lovely gifts and purchases.

Having a central theme is also a great touch. You could carry over the theme of your clothes and accessories if any or tie it up nicely with common touches. Having a theme for the way your gifts are presented, in terms of style and colours makes for one attractive trousseau! If you have a theme for your wedding and a colour palette that runs through all your events, it can incorporated in your trousseau packing as well. You can top off your packages with whimsical touches that show off your interests and personality like flamboyant feathers, some sparkly bling or even pressed flowers and leaves.

Last but not the least try and include a satchel of a fragrance you like or some pretty pot pourri in your packages; it keeps everything fresh and looks super pretty. Have fun with the trousseau packing since it is another special part of your big day and if you are packing one for someone you care about adding a small surprise gift or cute knick-knacks will definitely bring a smile to her face. Stay tuned for more information and tips on Indian weddings from Marry Me – Wedding Planners in India.

Since India is such a diverse country in terms of cultures, religions, and regional specialties, the weddings here are equally unique and often specific to the part of the country you come from. Gujarati weddings typical of the people living in and / or originating from the state of Gujarat, is one such culture specific event. Gujarati Weddings are colourful, vibrant and rich and often go on for a few days with many pre wedding, wedding time and post wedding customs and rituals. Let’s take a look at some of the typical Gujarati wedding traditions –

Pre-Wedding Gujarati Customs

Sagai – It all begins with the sagai or engagement and like many Indian wedding customs the engagement is very much a family affair. Not only do the bride and groom to be exchange rings in the presence of their respective families but also seek the blessings from five married women from each side of the family symbolizing the union of two families. The bride goes to the groom’s house with an earthen pot (matli) or package filled with various gifts and sweets after which the ring ceremony is held.

Mandap Mahurat – This ritual is an important one in Gujarati weddings and is held a few days before the wedding. In the mandap mahurat the pandit performs a puja or prayer ritual of Lord Ganesha along with all family members at both homes. This is done to ensure a smooth, successful and peaceful wedding.

Griha Shanti – The Griha Shanti is another common ritual among Hindus during many auspicious events. This puja is done to appease the heavenly bodies and stars so as to remove all possible obstacles before the wedding.

Pithi – The pithi is basically a paste made of sandalwood, turmeric and saffron which family members apply to the faces of the couple. It is supposed to help purify the skin and give you a nice glow. The bride and groom have their own individual ceremonies along with their friends and families.

Mehendi – Like other Indian weddings, the mehendi is a big part of Gujarati weddings too. On the mehendi, henna is used to adorn and decorate the bride’s hands and feet. The bride normally celebrates the mehendi function with her female family members and friends.

Garba / Dandiya – The Garba is one of the most fun wedding traditions and Gujaratis are known for the music and dances of the garbas. Normally held a night before the wedding, it involves lots of dancing and bright colourful clothes. Dandiyas or special sticks are used for the dance and you are meant to beat these along with the rhythm of the music. This event is a great way for both families to meet and mingle without the formality of the wedding.

Jaan – The Jaan or Ponkvu custom is really sweet and funny. Normally held on the wedding day, the groom gets off his horse and walks to the bride’s family’s door holding his nose! This symbolizes gratitude and humility towards his in-laws for letting him marry their daughter. He is welcomed by the bride’s mother who blesses him and performs her own ritual to keep evil away and even tries to grab his nose. This playful ritual is meant to remind that groom they are giving their precious daughter to him.

The Gujarati Wedding:

Jaimala – In a Gujarati Wedding ceremony the bride and groom exchange garlands twice, known as the Jaimala. Normally the groom’s friends and relatives try to lift him high up so that the bride cannot reach him to put on the garland. This is meant to symbolize that the bride cannot steal the groom away from his family and friends even after they are married! This garland exchange among the chanting of mantras is to be the beginning of the new union solemnized after the rest of the Gujarati wedding rituals.

Madhuparka – The next ritual is the Madhuparka where the groom is given a drink of milk and honey and his feet are washed as he is welcomed into the mandap by his mother in law. This is also the fun part when the bride’s relatives steal the groom’s shoes, only returning them if he shells out some moolah.

Antarpaat – In tha Antarpaat the bride is led to the mandap by her maternal uncle while the pandit calls out ‘Agman Kanya’. If he isn’t available to do so then a cousin or the uncle’s sons will do the duty. It is then that the curtain separating the bride and groom i.e. the Antarpat is lowered and the couple exchange garlands again. The ceremony then continues in front of the sacred fire.

Kanya Daan – The Kanya Daan is an important and sentimental custom during Indian Hindu weddings. In Gujarati weddings as well, the bride’s father washes the groom’s feet and gives him his daughter’s hand in marriage. It is meant to symbolize the handing over of Goddess Laxmi to Lord Vishnu.

Hasta Milap – The bride’s saree is tied to the groom’s scarf or dupata symbolizing the merging of the two souls. The couple is then showered with rose petals and rice grains by the relatives for blessings.

Varmala – A cord is tied around the couple’s necks by the elders in the family to ward off evil.

Satpadi or Pheras – The bride and groom then take their seven steps and ‘pheras’ or rounds around the sacred fire symbolizing seven vows they make to each other. On completion of the pheras the bride and groom are finally officially wed!

Saubhagyavati Bhav– This ritual is for the bride where seven married women from her side whisper their blessings in her ear.

Chero Pakaryo – This funny ceremony entails the groom catching hold of his mother in law’s saree and asking for more gifts! Her saree is then filled with gifts and cash by those present and later given to the groom and his family.

Post Gujarati Wedding Traditions

Vidaai – The Vidaai is an often tearful and emotional ritual where the bride is bid adieu by her family and friends. It is normally held after the reception when she leaves for her groom’s home.

Ghaar nu Laxmi – The bride is welcomed into her groom’s home as Goddess Laxmi who will bring good fortune into her new house. A vessel filled with rice is placed at the doorstep by the groom’s mother. The bride has to spill the rice from the vessel with her right foot. This is meant to symbolize wealth and the bride’s understanding of her responsibilities towards her new home.

Aeki Beki – This activity is a fun one just for the newlyweds. Coins and a ring are thrown into a vessel is filled with water, sindoor and milk. The bride and groom then have to find these and whoever finds the ring first four out of seven times is said will rule the household!

Finally the pictures are out! Reese Witherspoon tied the knot in Ojai, California. She walked down the aisle in a gorgeous blush pink Monique Lhuillier gown. People magazine has published the first photos of the dress and has described it as a \”lace corset bodice and full tulle A-line skirt\”. She then changed into a white minidress, also Lhuillier for the wedding reception – the magazine reported. Stay tuned for more wedding news from Marry Me. We love it her blush pink gown! Do you?

One of the biggest advantages of living in India and getting married here is the fact that there are gorgeous places to go to for a holiday and throughout the country. Honeymooners can have their pick, no matter what your budget and how much time you have in hand. Those looking for a getaway to a naturally beautiful, peaceful and idyllic place have plenty of options; one such little paradise on earth is the town of Kumarakom in the southern part of the country. Kumamrakom lies in the state of Kerala and is one such tranquil gem, absolutely perfect for a romantic holiday for two.

Once known for the rubber plantations, this picturesque destination is a stunning feast for the eyes. Honeymooners looking for a relaxed trip and tons of natural splendour are in for a treat. Kumarakom is less than 17kms away from the city of Kottayam and the nearest airport is at the city of Cochin. This cluster of islands is set against the waters of Kerala\’s Vembanad Lake and the sight of these backwaters is said to have even a jaded traveller spellbound. It\’s a perfect backdrop for intimate meals for two and many a cuddling session.

Since you will be right on the lake, exploring the lovely countryside is best done by boat and canoe rides. You can even find out about a cozy houseboat for two, while you sail along the lake in your own little oasis. Taking a cruise of the entire pristine backwater stretch is a perfect honymoon activity or you could enjoy a meandering sunset cruise. Rich in flora and fauna, Vembanad lake does not dissapoint. Plan a trip to the beautiful Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls that fall from over a 100 feet, just a few kilometers from Kumamrakom. The lush greenery and grand falls are a perfect picnic spot and a nice way to spend a few hours. Also accessible by boat is the island of Pathiramanal, meaning the \’sands of night\’. This island is home to some of the most beautiful views both of the backwaters and in the island itself. The entire Vembanad lake area is great for nature lovers; the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is home to a varied variety of migratory birds and the mangroves and coconut fields are a lovely sight.

There a variety of accommodation options for honeymooners in the area, ranging from a backpacker\’s budget to something more luxurious. Many resorts offer honey moon packages as well. Rejuvenating and a great place to bond with your new spouse, it\’s no wonder Kumarakom is ideal for not just nature lovers but lovers in general. Pristine waters, swaying palms and no nosiy crowds….bliss! Stay tuned for more honeymoon destinations in India from Marry Me – Wedding Planners.