FAQs

Question

How early should we book travel and hotels?

Answer

We recommend booking flights and accommodations as early as possible, especially since August is a busy travel season. Hotel block rooms and discounted rates are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Question

Where should guests stay?

Answer

We have reserved discounted hotel room blocks at select hotels for our guests. These hotels are listed in the Travel section and offer special rates for our wedding week.

Question

How do we book using the discounted rates?

Answer

Booking links and group codes for each hotel block are provided in the Travel section. We recommend reserving your room early, as discounted rates are limited and subject to availability.

Question

Is it required to stay at a hotel block?

Answer

No. Guests are welcome to stay wherever they are most comfortable. Hotel blocks are offered as a convenience and to provide discounted rates for our guests.

Question

When is the hotel block booking deadline?

Answer

Discounted rates are available until the booking deadline listed for each hotel, or until rooms sell out.

Question

Is there a minimum night stay?

Answer

Minimum stay requirements, if any, will be listed with each hotel booking link.

Question

Is parking included at the hotels? What about breakfast?

Answer

Most of our hotel blocks include complimentary parking and breakfast, among other amenities. Please refer to each hotel’s booking details for confirmation.

Question

Can we book part of our stay at a hotel block and part elsewhere?

Answer

Yes. Guests are welcome to mix and match accommodations based on their travel plans.

Question

Can we arrive earlier or stay later than the wedding weekend?

Answer

Guests may extend their stay based on hotel availability. Please contact the hotel directly for extended booking options.

Question

How far are hotels from the venues?

Answer

Our hotel blocks are located in the Santa Clarita and Valencia areas, approximately 25 to 35 minutes from Newhall Mansion by car. For the wedding ceremony day, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Chino Hills is about a 1 & 1/2 hour drive.

Question

Is driving recommended?

Answer

Yes. Driving is the preferred and most flexible method of transportation for all wedding events.

Question

If guests are flying in, should we rent a car?

Answer

Yes. Due to the distance between venues, hotels, and event locations, we strongly recommend renting a car if you are flying in.

Question

Are ride share services available?

Answer

Ride share services may be limited, especially late at night, due to the venue locations. Guests should plan accordingly.

Question

Is parking available?

Answer

Yes. Parking is available at Newhall Mansion and at all event locations.

Question

Will a shuttle be provided?

Answer

Yes. An optional shuttle will be available on August 20 for the wedding ceremony at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Chino Hills for guests who prefer not to drive. The shuttle will pick up at Newhall Mansion and return to Newhall Mansion following the conclusion of the ceremony.

Question

Where does the shuttle depart from?

Answer

The shuttle will depart from and return to Newhall Mansion. Guests choosing to use the shuttle must meet there.

Question

What time should shuttle guests arrive?

Answer

Shuttle timing will be shared closer to the wedding date. Guests using the shuttle should arrive 15 to 20 minutes before departure.

Question

Will transportation be provided for all other events?

Answer

Transportation will not be provided on other wedding days. Guests should plan for transportation for all remaining events.

Question

What airport should we fly into?

Answer

For international guests, we recommend flying into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). For domestic guests, Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) is often the most convenient option, followed by Ontario (ONT) or Long Beach (LGB) depending on flight availability and pricing.

Question

How far are the airports from the wedding venues?

Answer

Travel times may vary based on traffic and time of day, but approximate driving times are: Burbank (BUR): ~45 to 60 minutes LAX: ~60 to 90 minutes Ontario (ONT): ~75 to 90 minutes Long Beach (LGB): ~75 to 90 minutes

Question

Will transportation be provided from the airport?

Answer

No. Guests should plan their own transportation to and from the airport. Rental cars provide the most flexibility for the wedding week.

Question

Do international guests need a passport or visa?

Answer

Yes. All international travelers will need a valid passport to enter the United States. Visa requirements vary by country of citizenship, so we recommend checking U.S. entry requirements early to confirm whether a visa is needed for your travel. Guests are responsible for ensuring they meet all passport and visa requirements prior to travel.

Question

Who should we contact if we have trouble booking?

Answer

Please reach out to the hotel, airline, or rental car company directly.

Question

Is this a multi-day wedding?

Answer

Yes. Our wedding celebrations will take place over multiple days. Guests are welcome to attend the events listed on their invitation.

Question

Do guests need to attend all events?

Answer

No. We understand that travel schedules and personal commitments vary. Guests are welcome to attend whichever events they are able to. Guests will be able to RSVP separately for each event so we can plan accordingly.

Question

What time should guests arrive to each event?

Answer

We recommend arriving 15 to 30 minutes before the scheduled start time of each event to allow for parking and seating.

Question

What happens if we arrive late?

Answer

Due to the nature of the ceremony and scheduled events, late arrivals may be asked to wait for a natural pause before entering. We appreciate your understanding.

Question

How long will the events last?

Answer

Our events will follow Hindu traditions and are longer in nature. We thank our guests for their patience and presence as we honor these rituals.

Question

Where and when will the wedding events take place?

Answer

Detailed information is included on the Schedule tab for your convenience.

Question

Are events indoors or outdoors?

Answer

All wedding events will be held outdoors. August weather in Southern California is typically warm to hot, so we recommend breathable fabrics, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes, especially for extended periods outdoors.

Question

Can guests leave events early?

Answer

Yes. Guests are welcome to arrive and depart as needed.

Question

Is seating first come, first serve?

Answer

No, there will be seating charts. Seating details will be shared closer to the wedding date.

Question

Is there a dress code/color for the wedding events?

Answer

Yes. Each event has a suggested dress code/color, which will be under the Schedule section.

Question

Do guests need to wear traditional Indian attire?

Answer

Yes. We kindly ask all guests to wear traditional Indian attire to celebrate with us and honor the cultural significance of our wedding. Examples include lehengas, sarees, anarkalis, salwar suits, kurta-pajamas, or sherwanis.

Question

What should guests wear to the wedding ceremony?

Answer

The wedding ceremony is formal and traditional. Guests should wear Indian formal attire appropriate for a Hindu ceremony. Guests attending the ceremony at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir are asked to dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered.

Question

What if a guest does not own Indian clothing?

Answer

Guests who do not already own Indian attire are encouraged to explore local or online Indian boutiques. We have an agreement with Shingar Emporium in Modesto and Hayward that guests who will shop for outfits for our wedding will receive a discount if they mention the wedding. Additional guidance and inspiration for outfits may be shared on our website.

Question

What is the Tilak Ceremony?

Answer

What it is: The Tilak is a traditional pre wedding ceremony where the bride’s family formally blesses the groom. It symbolizes acceptance, honor, and the joining of two families. What to expect: You may see blessings, prayer rituals, and the groom being welcomed with ceremonial markings placed on his forehead. It is typically a meaningful and family centered event filled with tradition and symbolism.

Question

What is Mehndi?

Answer

What it is: Mehndi is a joyful celebration where henna is applied to the bride’s hands and feet. The intricate designs symbolize love, prosperity, and good fortune in marriage. What to expect: This event is festive and vibrant. There will be music, dancing, and henna artists available. Guests may also choose to receive simple henna designs. It is one of the most colorful and energetic celebrations of the week.

Question

What is Haldi?

Answer

What it is: Haldi is a pre wedding ritual in which a turmeric paste is applied to the bride and groom. Turmeric is believed to purify, bless, and prepare them for marriage. What to expect: This is a playful and heartfelt ceremony. Close family and friends apply turmeric paste while offering blessings. It can get lively and joyful, so wearing appropriate colors is encouraged.

Question

What are Bhatwaan and Telwaan?

Answer

What they are: Bhatwaan and Telwaan are traditional Fijian Indian pre wedding ceremonies that honor family lineage and spiritually prepare the bride and groom for marriage. What to expect: During Telwaan, close family members apply oil to the bride and groom while offering blessings and prayers. The oil symbolizes purification, protection, and preparation for married life. Bhatwaan focuses on honoring our families and ancestors. It represents gratitude, unity, and the merging of two lineages as we prepare to become one family. This ceremony is deeply meaningful and often emotional, as it connects us to generations before us while blessing our future together.

Question

What should guests expect during the wedding ceremony? Are guests expected to participate in the ceremony?

Answer

The ceremony will include prayers, chanting, rituals, and blessings. Guests are welcome to observe quietly and respectfully. Participation is not required.

Question

Can guests take photos during the wedding ceremony?

Answer

We kindly ask guests to refrain from taking photos or videos during the ceremony so everyone can be fully present. Our professional photographers, videographers, and content creators will capture the ceremony.

Question

Are children welcome at the wedding events?

Answer

Children are welcome if listed on the invitation. We kindly ask parents to supervise their children at all times and to step away if a child becomes disruptive, so the events may proceed respectfully.

Question

Will food be served at the wedding events?

Answer

Yes. Food will be served at all wedding events.

Question

Will the food be vegetarian?

Answer

Yes. All food served during all wedding events will be vegetarian. Guests are welcome to enjoy any additional meals of their choosing outside of wedding events.

Question

Will alcohol be served?

Answer

Yes. Alcohol will be served only at the reception. We encourage guests to plan transportation accordingly for this event.

Question

Can dietary restrictions or allergies be accommodated?

Answer

We will do our best to accommodate common dietary needs. Please indicate any allergies or dietary restrictions when you RSVP.

Question

Can guests bring outside food or drinks?

Answer

We kindly ask guests not to bring outside food or beverages, as meals and refreshments will be provided.

Question

How do we RSVP?

Answer

Guests will be able to RSVP through our wedding website. Please follow the instructions provided with your invitation.

Question

What is the RSVP deadline?

Answer

Please RSVP by the deadline listed on your invitation. Timely and accurate RSVPs help us finalize seating, meals, and vendor arrangements.

Question

Can we RSVP for individual events?

Answer

Yes. Guests will be able to RSVP separately for each event listed on their invitation. Accurate event RSVPs are important so we can plan appropriately and ensure correct guest counts for our vendors.

Question

Can I change my RSVP after submitting?

Answer

If your plans change after submitting your RSVP, please reach out to us as soon as possible. While we will do our best to accommodate changes, we cannot guarantee adjustments after final counts are submitted.

Question

What if we miss the RSVP deadline?

Answer

If we do not receive an RSVP by the deadline, we may have to mark your attendance as a “no” to ensure accurate planning.

Question

What if I cannot attend all events?

Answer

We completely understand. Please RSVP only for the events you are able to attend so we can plan accordingly.

Question

Are plus ones allowed?

Answer

Plus ones are welcome only if they are listed on your invitation. Due to space and planning considerations, we are unable to accommodate additional guests beyond those invited.

Question

Who should we contact with RSVP questions?

Answer

If you have questions or experience issues submitting your RSVP, please reach out using the contact information provided on our website.

Question

Can guests take photos at other events besides the wedding ceremony?

Answer

Yes. Guests are welcome to take photos and videos during other wedding events unless otherwise noted.

Question

Will professional photographers be present?

Answer

Yes. We will have professional photographers, videographers, and content creators capturing all wedding events, including the ceremony.

Question

When will photos be shared?

Answer

We will share professional photos after the wedding week once they are ready. Thank you for your patience as this process takes time.

Question

Will there be a wedding hashtag?

Answer

Yes. #Maavita2026 We would love for guests to use it when posting about anything from throughout the week.

Question

Can we post photos on social media?

Answer

Yes. Guests are welcome to share photos on social media. We kindly ask that ceremony photos taken by professionals be shared once we do.

Question

Do you have a registry?

Answer

Yes. We have created an online registry available here on our website under the Registry section.

Question

What is your gift preference?

Answer

Your presence and blessings are truly the greatest gift. However, if you wish to honor us with something additional, we kindly prefer monetary gifts or contributions through our online registry.

Question

Can we bring a boxed gift to the wedding?

Answer

To simplify travel and event logistics, we kindly request no boxed gifts at the wedding events. Monetary gifts or registry selections are greatly appreciated.

Question

Is it customary to give cash?

Answer

In our culture, blessings are often given in the form of monetary gifts, and we deeply appreciate that tradition. For those who prefer, our online registry is also available for convenience.

Question

How can we send a gift if we cannot attend?

Answer

Gifts and contributions can be made directly through our website registry. Your love and support mean the world to us, whether near or far.

Question

Who do we give our gifts to if we are bringing it in person?

Answer

Please give it to our wedding planner, GK, directly. She will make sure it gets to us.

Question

Will more details be shared later?

Answer

Yes. Final details, reminders, and any updates will be shared on our website and closer to the wedding week.