Schedule

Haldi and Mehndi

4:00 pm

Indo-Western Fusion or Garden Party Semi-Formal

The Haldi is a traditional Hindu ceremony intended to purify and bless the couple. Guests are invited to apply a paste of turmeric and sandalwood to the bride and groom's skin. The event will be combined with a Mehndi ceremony, during which henna designs will be applied to guests' hands in solidarity with the bride. Inspired by the traditional color of haldi, guests are encouraged to wear yellow, orange, and/or pink hues. Floral and traditional artisan patterns are very welcome. Chai, cocktails, chaat, and heavy hors d'oeuvres will be served. Music, games, and traditional festivities will be featured throughout.

Hindu Ceremony

8:30 am - 1:30 pm

Indian Traditional or Festive Formal

The Hindu ceremony commences with a Baraat, a racuous parade annoucing the entry of the groom and his party. The ceremony continues with the grand entrance of the bride, presented by her maternal uncles. The Tamil Brahmin ceremony includes the kashi yatra (groom's journey), maalai matral (exchange of garlands), oonjal (couple's swing and maternal songs), kanyadaanam (giving away of the daughter), thaali (tying of sacred thread), and saptapadi (seven steps) along with Sanskrit Vedic mantras. For Indian Traditional wear, guests are welcome to wear sarees, lehengas, kurtas, etc. Other festive formalwear may include full-length dresses, jumpsuits, and suits; we recommend that these outfits are paired with scarves/shawls and decorative flowers. Light breakfast with coffee and chai to be served on arrival. The ceremony will be followed by a traditional South Indian luncheon.

Reception

3:00 pm - 11:00 pm

Indian Formal or Black-Tie Optional

This afternoon will begin with a Jewish-inspired wedding ceremony under the chuppah, with a reading of vows. Guests are invited to mingle over cocktails, appetizers, and hors d'oeuvres. Inside the ballroom, the evening festivities will commence with toasts and speeches, followed by dinner service. Dessert and drinks aplenty, the evening will conclude with sangeet performances and dancing into the night. Indian attire options include lehengas, sarees, gowns, sherwanis, kurtas, and formal desi fusion wear. Guests are otherwise recommended to don full-length dresses, tuxedos, or dark-colored suits. Sequins and heavy accessories are highly encouraged; dress to impress!