Every Indian wedding can be different due to the regional diversity of rituals and belief systems held in the country. Because Bairavi's family is from the state of Tamil Nadu, a state at the southern tip of India, the wedding will follow a traditional Tamilian South Indian format. There will be 6 key rituals performed at the wedding: 1) Welcoming of Groom & his family by the Bride's family 2) Exchange of flower garlands between Bride & Groom 3) Ceremony in which Bride & Groom will be rocked on a swing 4) Official giving away of Bride by Bride's Father 5) Tying of sacred chain around Bride by Groom 6) Bride & Groom taking rounds around the fire, one for each vow The ceremony will be followed by a simple lunch.
Because the wedding will be in August, wear something colorful, but comfortable and cool! You are more than welcome to don an Indian garment but it is certainly not required! The only requirement is to be mindful of the setting -- given the ceremony will be held at a place of worship ladies should avoid outfits that are low-cut or hit above the knee.
Below are some outfit options for both men & women: Indian Wear for Women: 1) Lehenga - a blouse with floor-length skirt 2) Sari - a blouse with long fabric that is draped 3) Salwar Kameez - a tunic with pants (flared or skinny) Indian Wear for Men: 1) Sherwani - a long tunic with pants (more formal) 2) Kurta Pajama - a long tunic with pants (less formal) 2) Dhoti with Button-up Shirt - long fabric that is draped at the waist with button-up shirt
Here are some websites that sell ethnic Indian wear for both men and women: 1) https://www.panashindia.com/ 2) https://www.lashkaraa.com/ 3) https://www.mirraw.com/ 4) https://www.cbazaar.com/ Note that you should order your outfit(s) at least 1 month prior to the wedding date to ensure adequate time for shipping and any custom stitching/alteration!
Other than your presence and blessings we don't want any other gifts! Should you still choose to contribute something, you are more than welcome to bring a cash gift, or to donate to our Honeymoon fund (link below). https://www.zola.com/wedding/bairaviandmatthew/registry
If your questions have not been answered, please reach out to either Matt (862-223-9844) or Bairavi (732-447-7241) and we'll be happy to answer them!