FAQs

Question

How/ when do I RSVP?

Answer

You can RSVP right here on the website. Here’s how: 1. Click on the RSVP tab at the top of the screen. 2. Type in your first and last name. 3. Select your name and press "continue." 4. Respond for yourself and your guest, and/or family if applicable. Please submit your RSVPs no later than March 1st, 2025. If you have any questions, please contact the couple.

Question

What is an Anand Karaj?

Answer

The Sikh wedding ceremony is known as "Anand Karaj" which means 'Blissful Union". The Sikh marriage is a very colourful and a unique ceremony in which two individuals are joined in a partnership of two equals. It is not merely a physical and legal contract but a sacrament - a holy union between two souls. The Anand Karaj ceremony takes place in a Gurdwara, a Sikh place of worship that serves as a spiritual and community centre. Sikh weddings usually start in the morning and aim to finish by early afternoon. Expect to dedicate 3 hours or more to this event (breakfast, snacks, and a vegetarian lunch will be provided).

Question

What to expect at the Anand Karaj

Answer

RECEPTION OF BARAT - "Barat" is the term used for the Groom’s side or the party of people accompanying the Groom. The Groom's party is "received" by the Bride's party. This usually takes place outside the Gurdwara. MILNI - Following the arrival of the Barat, the “Milni” (means "introductions") highlights the meeting of the two families. Ardas (prayer) will be performed by the priest (Giani), blessing both families, followed by the formal introductions of key members from each respective side. BREAKFAST - Following the Milni, tea with savouries and sweets will be served and eaten in the Langar hall. Seating is required on the carpet floor, however chairs are provided if a person is elderly or otherwise unable to sit. MAIN CEREMONY - This is the formal part of the ceremony which takes place in the Darbar Sahib or main prayer hall. When entering the main hall, it is tradition to bow and place a voluntary donation in front of Sri Guru Granth Sahib. Non-Sikhs are not compelled to bow or offer a donation and may discreetly enter and join the congregation. Men and women are seated on their respective sides and await the wedding party to begin the Anand Karaj. You will be expected to sit on the carpeted floor for at least 45 minutes. It is essential that comfortable clothing be worn. For those who are elderly, or are unable to sit on the floor due to a physical disability, alternative seating will be provided. At the Gurdwara, our wedding planning team will be present to guide and assist you with any questions, concerns or clarifications.

Question

Etiquette at the Gurdwara

Answer

If this will be your first experience inside a Gurdwara, not to worry, people from all faiths are welcome. We kindly ask you to follow a few guidelines in order to maintain proper etiquette and respect while inside the Gurdwara. COVERING YOUR HEAD - You will be required to cover your head as a sign of respect and tradition. Men usually wear turbans, ramaals, bandanas or handkerchiefs that can be tied on the head. Ramaals will be provided for the men. Women usually wear a long scarf, dupatta, or shawl. We kindly ask women, if they do not own a dupatta, to bring any shawl. REMOVING SHOES - As you enter the Gurdwara you will be required to take off your shoes and place them in the designated space before you enter the sanctified area. SEATING ON THE FLOOR - Traditionally, Sikhs sit on the floor as a sign of equality. Sitting on the floor will be required in the Langar Hall and the Main Hall. Those who are elderly, or are unable to sit cross legged will be provided with alternative seating. RESPECT IN THE MAIN HALL - While in the main hall, we kindly ask you to sit quietly on the floor with your legs crossed and to not turn your back against the front, nor put your feet out facing the front. We are honoured to have all our family and friends attend this unique experience, and we will do our best to make it as accommodating and memorable as possible. Our wedding planning team will be present and available to guide you and answer any questions or concerns that you may have.

Question

What should I wear to the Anand Karaj?

Answer

Although a traditional Punjabi outfit known as a ‘salwaar kameez’ is usually worn, women can also wear non form-fitting western clothing that covers your body (short-sleeves are allowed). This can include a long dress, or pants. As per head coverings, a dupatta, or shawl is usually worn. We kindly ask women, if they do not own a dupatta, to bring any shawl. For men, western suits are usually worn and encouraged. You are also welcome to wear a traditional Punjabi outfit known as a ‘kurta.’ As per head coverings, ramaals, bandanas or handkerchiefs that can be tied on the head are usually worn. Ramaals will be provided for the men. Bright colours are considered most auspicious at Sikh weddings, so you can pretty much wear any colour and be as bright and bold as you wish. Please keep in mind that you are required to sit on the floor during the ceremony, so please wear something that is comfortable and not restricting. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the couple.

Question

What should I expect at the reception?

Answer

This “dinner and dance” occasion is the grand finale of an exciting wedding week for the bride and groom. As we honour our beautiful Punjabi and Hakka-Chinese cultures, there will be a wide variety of dishes with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options served in buffet style. Alcohol will be served through an open-bar. If you are planning to drink, we strongly encourage you to arrange suitable transportation (Uber if necessary).

Question

What Should I Wear to the Reception?

Answer

The dress code for the Reception will be formal evening attire, whether it be Western or Indian. For men, Western suits are encouraged. For women, Western dresses or a traditional Indian lehenga or sari are acceptable. We kindly request that women refrain from wearing white, ivory, cream or any other colour within this family for the Reception. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the couple.