FAQs
Question
What should I wear?
Answer
The short answer is - whatever excites you! If you want to explore Indian fashion, this is certainly a great opportunity to do so. If you prefer to stick with American (Western) attire, that is absolutely appropriate, as well! Below is an outline of style suggestions by day. THURSDAY Think lightweight spring clothing... sundresses, maxi skirts, palazzo pants, kurtas, sarees, dress pants, dress shirts, blouses, light blazers, etc. FRIDAY Think fun patterns, textures, and colors... lehengas, chaniya cholis, sarees, sundresses, dress pants, dress shirts, kurtas, etc. SATURDAY Think semi-formal to formal... higher-end versions of the clothing items listed above including gowns, suits, or tuxedos if desired. Want to try Indian clothes? Here are some pro tips! 1. If you have never worn a saree before, do not order one unless it is pre-draped. Sarees are harder to wear than lehengas or kurtas. 2. Ordering online is cheaper than going to a local Indian clothing store, but please be mindful of shipping times. It is also important to keep in mind that you might need alterations. 3. Pack a lot of safety pins! There is always a Patel Auntie ready to help you drape your dupata.
Question
Where can I buy Indian clothes?
Answer
Reliable websites: Indya, Utsav, Etsy, and Mirraw. Quality stores in the Chicagoland area: Kurti Connection, Anandi Fashions, and Aria Boutique.
Question
Why is there a break Saturday afternoon?
Answer
Since Hindu baraats and ceremonies are notoriously elaborate, it is customary to give guests the chance to rest and recharge before the cocktail hour and reception. The day will kick off with a welcome brunch at 10:30am at Lakes at Lacey. We will move into the baraat procession at 12:30pm where Vibhesh will arrive on a horse at the entrance of the venue. *This is an especially fun experience for first-timers, so you won't want to miss it! To adhere to an auspicious time, we will begin our wedding ceremony at 1pm. We have shortened the ceremony to 90 minutes while still honoring many sacred traditions and adding a few personal touches. With all of that said, the afternoon break is a great chance to relax and freshen up. Some people may change outfits, but it is not expected.
Question
Is it rude to skip the wedding ceremony?
Answer
Not at all! We understand that not everyone is accustomed to this many events, so please do what feels right for you. All we ask is that you please RSVP to help us better prepare for catering and seating arrangements.
Question
Which cuisines are on the menu?
Answer
THURSDAY Mexican (main) and Indian (snacks) FRIDAY Traditional vegetarian Gujarati SATURDAY Gujarati, Punjabi, Greek, and American *We will label items that contain meat and eggs. We will also offer Jain meals for select guests.
Question
Will alcohol be served?
Answer
Absolutely! Alcohol will be served on Thursday and Saturday.
Question
What else do guests need to know?
Answer
Please note that we will have designated social spaces outside of the Lakeview Conservatory to keep crowd noise to a minimum during our wedding ceremony. We understand the Indian custom of mingling during wedding ceremonies, and we also understand the American custom of silently observing wedding ceremonies. We wish to respect both customs by making space for the two to happen simultaneously. Thank you in advance for understanding!
