FAQs

Question

What is a Baraat and can I join?

Answer

You may have seen Indian wedding clips of a groom riding on an elephant or a horse and may be wondering why is everyone dancing in front of the venue or a parking lot? This is the first part of the wedding called Baraat! Historically, the groom and his family & friends would travel from their village, singing and dancing, to the bride's village. When the groom reaches bride's home, everyone celebrates and dances in excitement for the next part of the groom's life's. The groom is ultimately welcomed by the bride's mother as she blesses her future son in law. Traditionally, only the groom’s side dances during the Baraat, but we encourage guests from both sides to join Sean.

Question

This is my first Indian wedding - what can I expect?

Answer

After the Baraat, the Hindu wedding ceremony begins and everyone will be seated. The ceremony will begin with the bride's family performing a prayer with the groom. The bride will make her entrance following the ceremony. Traditionally, a Hindu wedding ceremony can last hours, but we've condensed it to one hour of our most meaningful traditions. We will be providing a detailed program when you arrive that will help you follow along!

Question

Why is the wedding ceremony in the morning and the wedding reception in the evening?

Answer

Indian weddings are comparatively long as they are filled with multiple traditions and rituals. The break between the two events will give you time to re-up your energies and prepare for the party. During the break, the family of the bride and groom as well as all guests typically change from your wedding outfits to the reception outfit. You can use this time to sleep, explore Sarasota, or get ready for the next event. For the girls, feel free to use this time to freshen up, change looks, be all extra about getting ready, & relax. For the guys, this time can be pregame, nap, pregame, nap ;)

Question

What should I wear to an Indian wedding?

Answer

Indian weddings are very festive and colorful. We would prefer everyone to join in the experience and wear traditional clothing like a Saree or Lehenga for women and Kurta for men. Please avoid wearing black, red or white!!

Question

What will the reception in the evening be like?

Answer

Put on your dancing shoes and everybody put their hands up and work those hips! The reception will be a fun party with lots of food and drinks! Expect to hear Indian as well as contemporary Western music. Dance along to the beat and dance to your own rhythm and you will have fun :)

Question

What will the cuisine be like at the wedding?

Answer

We will be having a traditional Gujarati lunch buffet served following the Ceremony. In the evening, we will have mostly Indian food with some American dishes. Traditionally, Indian food is spicy but we have requested for the spice level to be minimal. Don't worry, those that want extra heat will receive a side serving of chili powder ;)