FAQs
Question
Are kids welcome?
Answer
Yes! We are so happy to have the whole family together!
Question
Where should I park?
Answer
Yes! Because our venue is located in the heart of downtown, parking is available via valet or self-parking for a flat rate of $20. We recommend allowing a few extra minutes to park and make your way to the ceremony.
Question
What should I wear?
Answer
We want everyone to feel comfortable while looking their best for our big day! Our dress code is Formal Summer Attire… think Kentucky Derby formal, minus the hats. You are welcome to wear either traditional Indian attire or Western formal wear. Suit jackets are not required! Since you will be in your chosen outfit for the entire day, please pick whatever makes you feel most confident and comfortable. For those choosing Indian attire: We would be thrilled to see you in traditional clothing! Please feel free to embrace bright, festive colors and traditional styles. (See our next FAQ for tips on where to find an outfit!) For those choosing Western wear: Think "Derby chic"—sharp, summery, and vibrant! • For men: We encourage suits or formal dress pants with a dress shirt. Ties or bow ties are encouraged for a formal look, but please feel free to opt for breathable fabrics to stay cool. • For women: We love flowy, summer-appropriate dresses. We ask that dresses be knee-length or longer. A quick tip for August: We’ll be spending time both indoors and outdoors, so we recommend choosing breathable fabrics to help you stay cool and comfortable while you dance the day away!
Question
I’d love to wear Indian attire! Where can I find something?
Answer
If you’re looking to explore options, there are some great online rental and retail sites that make it easy: RENTAL: www.allborrow.com RETAIL - AMAZON - www.amazon.com MIRRAW - www.mirraw.com KALKI FASHION - www.kalkifashion.com LASHKARAA - www.lashkaraa.com HATKAY - www.hatkay.com **Indian clothes are most definitely optional! Please wear what makes YOU feel YOUR BEST!** Need help/advice/have questions?! Shoot Mital an email and she can assist you! EMAIL: mrp138619@gmail.com
Question
What is the weather like in Columbus in August?
Answer
Columbus in August is quintessential late summer! You can expect warm, sunny days with temperatures typically ranging from the mid-70s to the high 80s. Because we’re in the heart of the Midwest, it can be a bit humid, but it’s also the time of year when the city is at its most vibrant. Our celebration is planned with your comfort in mind, utilizing climate-controlled indoor spaces.
Question
I’ve heard Indian weddings have a lot of food—what is the food menu looking like?
Answer
We believe that food is one of the best ways to share who we are! Ajay and I have curated a culinary experience that represents not just our cultures, but also the cuisines we love to enjoy together. You can expect a diverse, flavorful journey throughout the day: • Pre-Ceremony: Enjoy a refreshing fruit platter and a selection of beverages to start the day. • Ceremony Spread: During the ceremony, we’ll have a self-serve Mediterranean mezze spread for you to enjoy. • After the "I Do's": We are treating everyone to our signature favorite—Maudine’s Cherry Blossom Chai Lattes (with a delicious cherry almond twist!) paired with a variety of pastries. • The Main Event: For dinner, we’re serving up a unique fusion blend of Indian, Mexican, and Indo-Chinese cuisine. We’ve had so much fun choosing these dishes, and we hope you love this diverse and tasty tour of our favorite flavors as much as we do!
Question
What is a puja?
Answer
A puja is a traditional Hindu prayer ritual that we are including in our celebration to seek blessings for our marriage. It is a beautiful, sensory ceremony involving offerings like flowers, incense, and light. We are so honored to share this meaningful part of our culture and traditions with you!
Question
What is a “baraat” and a “milni”?
Answer
The baraat is a festive wedding procession where the groom arrives at the venue accompanied by music and dancing. We absolutely encourage you to join the fun, dance, and help us get the party started! The milni follows, which is a traditional meeting of the two families. We invite all of our guests to join the fun, dance, and celebrate as we kick off the day!
Question
What is a Mandap?
Answer
The mandap is a beautiful, four-pillared structure that serves as the altar for the wedding ceremony. It represents the home we are building together. You will see us seated here for the majority of the ceremony.
Question
Why are there so many rituals?
Answer
Indian weddings are rich in symbolism. Each ritual—from the exchange of garlands (Jaimala) to walking around the sacred fire (Saptapadi)—symbolizes a different promise we are making to each other, such as friendship, prosperity, and mutual love and respect.
Question
Can I take photos during the ceremony?
Answer
We’d love for you to capture the color and joy, but we kindly ask that you remain seated and keep cameras out of the way of the priests and photographers and videographers. During the Baraat and reception, feel free to snap as many photos as you like!
Question
Is there anything I should avoid?
Answer
The most important thing you can do is be present and celebrate with us! If you see something you don't recognize or understand, feel free to ask a family member—they would love to explain the significance of the ritual to you.
Question
Should I bring a gift to the ceremony?
Answer
Your presence is the greatest gift! In Indian tradition, it is also common to gift small envelopes (shagun) at the wedding, but please know this is completely optional and never expected. If you would still like to honor us, our wedding registry QR code will be available on the day of the wedding.