Our intention is to make all of our wedding events as safe as possible for every guest. As such, we will be requiring all eligible guests to be vaccinated in order to attend our wedding. If you have any questions about this, please reach out to us directly. All staff at our events are fully vaccinated and will be wearing masks. The sangeet will be held in an indoor/outdoor hybrid space (one wall of the main space is completely open to the outdoors, and there is a large outdoor terrace for guests). Our wedding ceremony and reception are completely outdoors, with the exception of the dance floor. The brunch will be indoors. We are doing everything we can to minimize any risk associated with attending our wedding, and will continue to monitor the situation and communicate updates as necessary.
The word Sangeet means 'music', and among the traditional Indian pre-wedding rituals, the Sangeet night is when the festivities really get started! This event is a way to celebrate not only the couple's union, but also the bonding of their families. We are combining the Sangeet with the Mehndi function, which is traditionally a party where the bridal party and guests have henna applied. You can expect music, performances, dinner, and a lively dance floor.
For the Sangeet, we recommend festive Indian or colorful cocktail attire. Indian attire is encouraged - if you are thinking about wearing Indian attire at some point during the wedding weekend, this is the night to do so! For women we suggest a lehenga (top and skirt), sari, salwar kameez, anarkali, cocktail dress, or jumpsuit. For men; a kurta, sherwani, nehru jacket, suit, or sport coat.
The Baraat is a joyful ritual that will begin our wedding day! Traditionally, the Baraat was a procession from the groom's hometown to the wedding venue (don't worry, we aren't making Eshaan ride down from Chicago, just from the hotel gate). His family and friends lead the way with music and dancing. At the end of the baraat, the bride's family welcomes the groom and his family in a meeting known as the the Milni ceremony, which symbolizes the unification of the two families. All guests are invited to the Baraat and should plan to arrive at the wedding venue in time for this event.
The dress code on Saturday is black tie optional (tux or suit and tie for men) or traditional Indian. Women are welcome to wear any color (including red) aside from white, which is associated with funerals in India. There are no breaks between the baraat, ceremony and reception, so you are not expected to change in between events. Our ceremony, cocktail hour, and dinner will all be outside. October temps in Austin average 75-85 degrees during the day, and 65-75 degrees at night, so please check the weather and bring sunglasses and/or a wrap if necessary.
There are several great options for renting Indian formalwear: BorrowBollywood.com, RentTheRunway.com, or RiyaCollective.com. To buy online, check out Kalkifashion.com, Azafashions.com, https://www.hatkay.com/, or Lashkaraa.com. If you're looking to buy, shopping in person is a fun experience. In the Bay Area we recommend Meena Bazaar (Sunnyvale) or Sari Palace (Berkeley), and in Chicago, check out the many shops along Devon Ave. Many stores will do alterations in house. If you need help, feel free to reach out!
To allow all of our guests, especially parents, to enjoy the weekend fully, respectfully we have chosen for our wedding to be an adults-only occasion. (With the exception of a few children in our families who will be a part of our wedding ceremony and bridal party.)
Please note any allergies or dietary restrictions on your RSVP card, and we will do our best to accommodate.