FAQs

Question

Are you taking any COVID-19 protocols?

Answer

We take the health of our loved ones very seriously. We expect all guests to be responsible and take the proper precautions for COVID-19. We encourage all guests to be fully vaccinated and up to date on Covid boosters. Additionally, we are asking all guests to take a Rapid test the day of the event. If you feel any symptoms the day of, we ask you to show your love by NOT joining the wedding festivities to keep everyone healthy and safe.

Question

What is an Anand Karaj?

Answer

Anand Karaj is the Sikh religion's wedding ceremony which often takes place in the Gurdwara, a Sikh place of worship.

Question

What is the dress code for the wedding ceremony?

Answer

There are 3 main things to take note when entering the Sikh place of workship: 1. WEAR LOOSE-FIT CLOTHING. You will be seated on a carpeted floor, so wear something you will be able to comfortably sit cross-legged. We recommend pants, long/loose skirts or dresses would work great. Why? In Sikh religion, when inside the main hall of the Gurdwara, ALL visitors sit together on a carpeted floor. This tradition was set to show humility before the Guru Granth Sahib (the Sikh holy book) and because it indicates that everyone is in a place of equal status in the eyes of God. Seats are not provided, unless for the elderly or those with disabilities. 2. YOUR HEAD MUST BE COVERED. Men typically wear bandanas, and women wear long scarves or shawls. Please, no hats. It is required that all guests cover their heads when entering the prayer hall and langar rooms of the Gurdwara. You will not be permitted to enter without a head covering. The Gurdwara will provide clean head coverings to borrow if you forget to bring one. 3. NO SHOES inside the halls. Shoes are prohibited inside the main prayer and langar (lunch) halls. There are shoe racks provided where you can place your shoes before entering. If you have any questions, ask Shagun. shagunaulakh@gmail.com

Question

What is the attire for the reception?

Answer

We recommend formal to black tie. There are no restrictions, but come in your finest and wear your dancing shoes! The venue is indoor, but the weather in the Bay Area during Spring can be unpredictable, bring a jacket.

Question

There are a few hours between the wedding and reception. What should I do in-between?

Answer

That is free time! We encourage you to go to your hotel rooms and relax and recharge before the reception party begins! It's customary that guests change into more formal attire for the reception. If you don't have a hotel room, feel free to visit Santana Row where there are lots of shops, cafes, & restaurants. Note that cocktail hour will start promptly at 5:00 pm.

Question

I live in the San Francisco Bay Area. Should I stay at a hotel or just drive the day of?

Answer

While San Francisco and surrounding cities are not a far drive, we highly recommend you book a hotel room in San Jose in order to have the best and most relaxed experience. The wedding ceremony starts early in the morning, there is a block of time free time between events, and the reception will go into the late hours. Therefore, we recommend booking for the dates Friday, March 24, 2023 thru Sunday, March 26, 2023. Check the "Travel" section of our website for recommended hotels where we've reserved blocks at a discounted rate.

Question

What's the best mode of transportation to events?

Answer

The venue for the Ceremony at the San Jose Gurdwara has plenty of parking, and is not located near public transportation so we recommend either driving/carpooling or taking an Uber. For the reception at The Guildhouse, it is located near Downtown San Jose. If you are staying at any of the hotels we've reserved at a discount, you can walk or take Uber. The closest free parking is the I-280 lot located at 691 S 2nd St, San Jose, CA 95112. Additionally, there is metered street parking but will be free after 6pm, and a parking lot at the San Jose Convention Center within easy walking distance. At the reception, we want you to relax and have drinks on us, but if you do, please DO NOT DRIVE. For your & other's safety, use Uber or find a designated driver.

Question

Do you have a registry for gifts?

Answer

If you’d like to give a gift, a contribution towards our 1st home fund would be hugely appreciated! There is a registry link on this website if you'd like to contribute.