FAQs
Question
What is the Baraat?
Answer
The Baraat is the groom's procession as he arrives to the scene of the wedding. Traditionally, weddings would take place at the bride's home and the groom would arrive on an elephant with his entourage, complete with loud drums, trumpets, and all his family members dancing down the street to make their arrival known to the bride's family. Our version won't involve an elephant, and we won't be walking all the way to Stephanie's home... but it will be just as amazing! Rushi will arrive surrounded by YOU, the "Baraatis", forming a large dance party leading him to Stephanie's family. Traditionally only the groom's side dances during the Baraat, but we encourage guests from both sides to join Rushi.
Question
What are the customs during the Hindu Wedding Ceremony?
Answer
After the Baraat, the two families greet in a custom called the Milni. In the ceremony, the bride and groom sit beneath a canopied structure called a mandap with their families. The ceremony starts with the kanya daan, where the bride’s parents offer their daughter in marriage. Then the bride and groom’s hands are joined with a cotton thread wound several times, while the priest recites holy verses. They then walk around a small fire (the “agni”), in a ritual called the mangal phera, with each circle representing the ashrams of life. The couple will then take the saptapardi, or seven steps, as they vow to always love and support each other, sealing the marriage forever. Finally, the groom will apply a red powder to the center of the bride’s forehead and tie a necklace around her neck.
Question
Why is the Hindu wedding ceremony in the morning and the 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 time to re-up your energies and prepare for the party! During the break, feel free to use this time to freshen up, change looks, relax, or nap. You can also use this time to explore Bethlehem and Allentown.
Question
What if I have to use the bathroom or walk around during the ceremony?
Answer
Hindu ceremonies are mostly informal, as they are long, so feel free to get up to move around or grab a snack.
Question
What should I wear?
Answer
Please feel free to wear either Western or Indian attire at any of our events! Sunday, attire is black tie optional or formal traditional Indian dress. Please avoid wearing red & black. Historically seen, majority of Indians WILL have separate outfits for each event. HOWEVER, you are not mandated to switch between the Wedding and the Reception. If you'd like to wear traditional Indian clothing: saree or lehenga choli for women and kurta for men. Here is a website we recommend www.utsavfashion.com to get a sense of your options. You can also find stores selling Indian outfits in the NJ/NY area. Feel free to contact the bride or the groom for additional questions.
Question
What will the reception in the evening be like?
Answer
The reception will be a fun party with lots of food and drinks! Put on your dancing shoes!!
Question
Do you have a gift registry?
Answer
Please note that your love and support is all we ask for on our special day. However, if you do wish to celebrate with a gift, we have a honeymoon fund registry.
Question
Are kids allowed?
Answer
We understand that some days are good and some days are bad when you're under the age of 10. While we want to include our younger family members in this wedding weekend, we ask that you please take action* if your little one is having a hard time. This way you won't ruin the experience for others around you. *Take action - leave the room, go for a walk
Question
Can I bring a plus one?
Answer
We have reached out to all our guests with plus ones. If you think we missed you, please send us an email at srjg2022@gmail.com
Question
Do I need to wear a mask?
Answer
While we are not mandating masks at our wedding, we ask that you wear a mask if you feel sick. If you'd be more comfortable wearing a mask in general, please do!
Question
We are having trouble using the webform to RSVP!
Answer
That's ok! Technology is sometimes a bummer. Just shoot us an email at srjg2022@gmail.com to confirm the events you will be attending.
Question
Who do we contact with questions?
Answer
Just shoot us an email at srjg2022@gmail.com!