FAQs

Question

What is a Maiyan & Jaggo celebration?

Answer

The Maiyan & Jaggo is a traditional Punjabi pre-wedding ceremony. The Maiyan is a joyful, intimate gathering where family and friends come together to bless the bride or groom and prepare them for the wedding. Traditionally this ceremony involves applying a turmeric paste on the bride and groom in preparation for their wedding day to purify, cleanse, and give them a natural glow for the wedding. The Jaggo is a lively and fun-filled pre-wedding celebration. The word "Jaggo" means "wake up," and the tradition is all about waking up the neighbourhood with singing, dancing, and joy to announce the upcoming wedding. It’s one of the most vibrant and energetic parts of a Punjabi wedding.

Question

What can I expect during the Maiyan & Jaggo?

Answer

Expect a fun filled celebration, with food, drinks, and dancing. During this time, you can also get your hands decorated by an artist with beautifully designed mehndi (henna tattoo).

Question

What should I wear to the Mayian & Jaggo?

Answer

Consider wearing light, festive, vibrant colours and comfortable semi-formal attire. You're welcome to wear traditional Indian attire.

Question

What can I expect during the Sikh ceremony?

Answer

The ceremony will take place at a Gurdwara (Sikh temple), where friends and family of the bride and groom will meet outside and exchange garlands or hugs, symbolizing the union of both families. Upon entering the Gurdwara, guests will be asked to cover their heads and remove their shoes as a sign of respect. A light vegetarian breakfast will be served prior the ceremony in the community kitchen. For the ceremony, men and women sit on the floor on separate sides of the hall. The tradition of sitting on the floor is rooted in the values of equality, humility, and respect, which are central to Sikhism. However, seats can be provided for elderly and those in need. The wedding ceremony is centred around The Guru Granth Sahib (Holy Book). The heart of the ceremony involves the couple walking around the Guru Granth Sahib four times, following the Granthi (priest). Each round, called a Laav, represents a stage of our spiritual journey together. A collective prayer is offered to bless the couple's union. After the ceremony, a sweet offering (prasad) is shared with all guests, symbolizing equality and community. After the ceremony, you're invited to join us to enjoy a vegetarian community meal (Langar) at the kitchen. Similar to the the ceremony, floor seating is available. However, you may choose to stand.

Question

What should I wear to the Sikh ceremony?

Answer

The ceremony will take place at a Gurdwara (Sikh temple). Please dress modestly and you will be asked to cover you head once inside as a sign of respect (bandanas will be provided for guests, but you're welcome to bring your own scarf). You will be asked to remove your shoes before entering.

Question

What can I expect during the Chuppah ceremony?

Answer

The ceremony will take place at the reception hall, prior to the party. It begins with signing the Ketubah, a Jewish marriage contract that reflects our values and commitment. Next, is the Bedeken, a short but meaningful ceremony where the groom "veils" the bride to symbolize that the groom loves the bride for who she is on the inside. The Chuppah ceremony is to follow. The Chuppah is a canopy that is open on all sides, symbolizing the couple’s new home together and representing hospitality and openness to family and friends. The couple along with their immediate family stand under the Chuppah. Upon exchanging vows, rings, and blessings, the groom breaks the glass. At this point you can all congratulate us by saying "Mazel Tov"! The breaking of the glass carries many symbols including permanency, beauty and fragility, to serve as a reminder that while marriage is joyful and beautiful, it requires nurture, commitment and love.

Question

What should I wear to the Chuppah ceremony and reception?

Answer

You can dress as you would to another reception, with wedding formal attire. Given our multicultural event, we welcome all guests to wear traditional Indian clothing or western attire. For the ceremony portion, men may choose to wear a Kippah (will be provided) as a sign of respect, reverence, and humility, however this is not a requirement. A turban can respectfully replace a kippah to serve the same purpose.

Question

What if I can't make it to all the events?

Answer

While we'd love to celebrate all these milestones with you, we understand that time and schedules may make it challenging. That's no problem! You are welcome to attend one, two, or all three events.