Indian wedding functions, in order

Planning the functions

1. 1

   Agree the list between families

   Which functions are shared, which are hosted by each side, and who pays for what. This decides everything else.

2. 2

   Fix dates and venues

   Morning functions need early starts, and some need a hard floor or open air. Allow travel time between venues.

3. 3

   Decide who comes to what

   Many families keep the early functions small and open the reception to everyone.

4. 4

   Tell guests once, in one place

   Dress codes, timings and maps are what guests ask about most. Put them where guests can find them again.

The functions, in the usual order

• Roka: the families agree to the match, often weeks or months ahead. A small gathering with close family.
• Engagement (sagai or ring ceremony): the couple exchange rings. It can be intimate or a full party.
• Tilak: the bride's family visits the groom's side and marks his forehead, with blessings and gifts. Mostly close male relatives in many families, though customs vary.
• Mehndi: henna for the bride, and for any guest who wants it. Usually a relaxed afternoon, with food and music.
• Haldi: turmeric paste applied to the bride or groom, often on the morning of the wedding or the day before. Guests wear clothes they do not mind staining.
• Sangeet: an evening of music and dancing, with performances from both families.
• Wedding: the ceremony itself, with the baraat, the varmala and the pheras, at a time often set by the muhurat.
• Reception: a dinner hosted after the ceremony, usually with the longest guest list of all.

What guests want to know for each

• The start time, and whether it really starts then.
• The venue, with a map link, and whether there is parking.
• What to wear, especially for the haldi and sangeet.
• Whether food is served, and whether they are expected at this function at all.

Who this helps

• Couples planning a first family wedding, and working out what happens when.

• Guests from another region or country who are going to their first Indian wedding.

• Hosts writing their schedule, who want to explain each function to guests.

Questions about the functions

• Starter

  Free first year

  Up to 50 guests

  then ₹499 for each extra year

• Classic

  ₹14,999 one-time

  Up to 400 guests

  then ₹1,499 for each extra year

• Grand

  ₹29,999 one-time

  Unlimited guests (fair use)

  then ₹2,999 for each extra year