For those who have never attended a traditional Sikh wedding, the main events at the Gurdwara will be the following: 1) Milni - The bride’s family warmly welcomes the groom upon arrival outside the Gurdwara. An Ardas takes place before the Milni ceremony. The ceremony consists of introducing each other by putting a garland around the neck and hugging, followed by taking a picture in the middle of the congregation. Afterwards, both parties will go into the Langar (kitchen) for some pre-ceremony tea and food. 2) Anand Karaj Ceremony - family members and visitors from both sides take their seats, with males on the right and females on the left. The groom sits in the front of the gathering before the bride’s entrance. The bridesmaids and then the bride will then arrive with her family holding a rumalla to offer. 3) 4 Laavans - During this stage, the bride’s brothers take turns leading her around the altar in a clockwise direction while the groom leads, and the bride holds onto his ‘palla’. 4) Anand Sahib - Following the completion of the fourth Laavan, the couple is pronounced husband and wife. The Sikh marriage ceremony concludes with a hymn. The couple stays seated while both their parents put a garland around them and give them Shagun. The rest of the guests line up behind the newlywed, and each family takes turns giving Shagun. 5) Post-ceremony Langar - After the ceremony, everyone goes to the Langar (kitchen) for a meal. The bride’s family brings her a platter of food. The bride and groom then share a meal at the venue.

A couple of small details that would be appreciative for those not of a Sikh background. When entering the main Gurdwara area, please remove shoes in the designated location and have a head-covering on (Gurdwara will have handkerchief's available - women can use a scarf/shawl as well). Once entering, at the base of the altar there is a donation box that is used to fund the Gurdwara and community kitchen, it is tradition to offer a small offering (even $1) as an appreciation and bowing as a sign of respect. If bowing is a source of conflict/an obstacle, a respectful acknowledgement of placing your hands together is acceptable. Men and women sit separately (children can sit with either parent).

We are so excited to celebrate this special day surrounded by our closest friends and family. With that in mind, only those formally invited on your wedding invitation can be accommodated. If you have a plus one, it will be noted on your invitation and when you RSVP.

We love your children and would be thrilled to see them at Friday's Gurdwara Ceremony in Sacramento. However, Sunday's Ceremony & Reception in San Ramon will be adults-only events so please plan accordingly.

If you are able to attend the Gurdwara Ceremony, the closest airport is Sacramento International Airport (SMF). San Ramon is typically a 1.5-hour drive from Sacramento, and the closest airport to our San Ramon venue is Oakland International Airport (OAK).

Fortunately, there is plenty of parking space provided at both venues. There will be no additional shuttle service.

Both events will be catered with traditional Punjabi food. The buffet will include some vegetarian and gluten-free options. If you have any additional allergies or dietary restrictions, please reach out in advance so we can do our best to accommodate your meal.