FAQs

Question

How do I RSVP?

Answer

The easiest way is to go to the RSVP section of this website. Here, you can search for yourself and family members and mark which events you will be attending. Alternatively, you can also contact Shyam, Harman, or their parents and let them know.

Question

When should I RSVP By?

Answer

We kindly ask that all guests RSVP by July 1, 2025. This allows us to finalize arrangements for seating, catering, and other important details to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Question

What is the dress code for the Mandir ceremony on August 31?

Answer

For the mandir wedding ceremonies, it’s important to dress modestly and respectfully, keeping in mind the sacredness of the venue and the religious traditions. Here are some guidelines for dressing for the occasion: For Women: - Traditional Attire: A saree, lehenga, or salwar kameez in bright and vibrant colors is ideal. - Non-Indian attire: Casual dress-code attire including dresses are perfectly okay if you do not have traditional attire. Please follow the modesty guidelines below. - Modesty: The BAPS Swaminarayan temple states that visitors are not allowed to wear sleeveless tops or shorts. All clothing must cover shoulders and knees, and leg wear must be at least below knee-length. Modesty is key in a religious setting. Avoid overly tight or revealing outfits. - Footwear: It's common to remove shoes before entering the mandap. Consider wearing flats, sandals, or other easy-to-remove footwear. For Men: - Traditional Attire: A kurta or sherwani is often worn for temple ceremonies. - Non-Indian attire: Casual dress code such as a dress shirt with dress pants is okay. - Modesty: The BAPS Swaminarayan temple states that visitors are not allowed to wear sleeveless tops or shorts. All clothing must cover shoulders and knees, and leg wear must be at least below knee-length. Modesty is key in a religious setting. Avoid overly tight or revealing outfits. - Footwear: Just like for women, shoes should be removed before entering the mandap. Choose footwear that is easy to remove. Thank you for respecting for the sacred nature of the ceremony and the cultural traditions being honored.

Question

What is the dress code for the Gurudwara ceremony on September 6?

Answer

Attending a wedding ceremony at a Gurudwara is a beautiful and sacred occasion. As guests, it's important to dress modestly and respectfully, in keeping with the traditions of the Sikh faith. Here are some guidelines for appropriate attire: For Women: - Modest and Respectful Clothing: Women should wear attire that covers the shoulders, arms, and knees. Traditional options include salwar kameez, sarees, or long dresses. If wearing a dress, opt for a floor-length option with sleeves as everyone will be sitting on the ground during the ceremony. It's best to avoid short skirts, strapless tops, or anything too revealing. - Head Covering: It is customary for women to cover their heads while inside the Gurudwara. You can bring your own scarf or use one provided at the temple. This is a sign of respect. - Footwear: Shoes must be removed before entering the Gurudwara. There will typically be a designated area for leaving shoes outside the prayer hall. For Men: - Modest Clothing: Men should wear long pants or traditional attire like a kurta, sherwani, or suit. Western business-casual attire such as a dress shirt with dress pants is acceptable. Please remember, that everybody will sit on the floor during the wedding ceremony. Shorts, tank tops, and overly casual clothing should be avoided. - Head Covering: Men are also required to cover their heads when inside the Gurudwara, typically with a turban, scarf, or cloth. Head covering will be provided for men at the Gurudwara if you do not have one. It's important to follow this tradition as a sign of respect. - Footwear: Shoes must be removed before entering the Gurudwara. There will typically be a designated area for leaving shoes outside the prayer hall.

Question

What time should I arrive for the wedding ceremonies?

Answer

Mandir ceremony on August 31, 2025: Please arrive by 9:15 AM. Parking provided at the temple Gurudwara ceremony on September 6, 2025: Please arrive by 7:45 AM. Parking provided at the gurudwara

Question

What events to expect for the Mandir ceremony?

Answer

- Arrival of the Groom (Baraat): The groom arrives at the wedding venue, often accompanied by a lively procession of family and friends, with music and dancing (especially in traditional Indian weddings). It's a celebration of the groom’s arrival. - Ganesh Puja: The ceremony often starts with a prayer to Lord Ganesha, seeking blessings for a smooth wedding and the removal of any obstacles. - Varmala (Jaimala): The bride and groom exchange flower garlands, symbolizing their mutual acceptance and respect for one another. - Saat Phere (Seven Circles): The couple circles a sacred fire seven times while making vows to each other for a prosperous and harmonious life together. - Sindoor and Mangalsutra: The groom applies sindoor (vermilion) to the bride’s forehead and ties the mangalsutra (sacred necklace) around her neck, signifying the beginning of her married life.

Question

What events to expect for the Gurudwara ceremony?

Answer

- Milni (Meeting of the Families): The family of the bride and groom will meet each other and exchange garlands. - Anand Karaj Ceremony: The Anand Karaj is the central part of the Sikh wedding ceremony. It takes place in the Gurudwara and involves the couple taking four rounds around the Guru Granth Sahib (the Sikh holy scripture), while hymns (Kirtan) are sung. This signifies their commitment to each other and to the teachings of the Guru. The couple listens to the hymns and receives blessings from the congregation during the ceremony. The groom and bride sit in front of the Guru Granth Sahib, with their families present to witness the sacred vows. - Lavan (Marriage Hymns): The couple listens to the four Lavan hymns, which describe the stages of their spiritual and emotional journey together. After each hymn, the couple takes a round around the Guru Granth Sahib, symbolizing the deepening of their relationship. - Ardas (Prayer): After the Lavan, a special prayer (Ardas) is performed, seeking blessings for the couple’s new life together. This prayer is recited by the priest and is an important part of the ceremony. - Anand Karaj Blessings: Following the ceremony, family and friends gather to offer blessings to the newlyweds. The couple may also seek blessings from their elders by touching their feet as a sign of respect.

Question

What kind of food will be served at the wedding?

Answer

There will be vegetarian Indian food served at both of the ceremonies. It will be delicious!

Question

Is the wedding indoors or outdoors?

Answer

Both ceremonies will include an outdoor component at the beginning: Baraat at the mandir and Milni at the Gurudwara (see description of ceremonies above). The ceremony will then transition indoors followed by lunch indoors.

Question

Will there be a wedding reception after the ceremonies?

Answer

There will be no reception following the wedding ceremonies.

Question

Where should we bring/send our wedding gift?

Answer

Your presence at our wedding is the greatest gift we could ask for! There will be a wedding card/gift box at the ceremony. Kindly ask that you do not bring any box gifts to the ceremony. We also do not have a gift registry. Thanks!

Question

Is it okay to bring a +1 and/or children?

Answer

We have sent invitations indicating if +1 and/or children are invited. If you feel that we have made a mistake or you would like to bring someone, please let us know. We will try to accommodate!