The Mehndi and Haldi ceremonies are vibrant pre-wedding traditions filled with music, laughter, and celebration. The vibe is relaxed—guests can get henna, grab a drink, and mingle while enjoying lively music and lunch. After lunch, we’ll have the Kalire Ceremony, an Indian twist on the bouquet toss! Following an intimate blessing with the bride’s family, all the single ladies step forward as the bride playfully shakes her kalire (a beautiful dangling ornament). If a piece falls on you, tradition says you’re next to be married. The festivities continue with the Haldi Ceremony, where turmeric mix is applied to bless the couple before the big day.

Our ceremony begins with the Varmala, where we exchange floral garlands as a symbol of love and acceptance—cheer, celebrate, and shower us with flowers! This is followed by the Pheras, where our officiant blesses us with vows of love and commitment around a sacred flame. Indian weddings take a bit longer, so feel free to mingle or move around. Just be sure to take your seat before the ceremony ends—and save some flowers to shower on us as we make our grand exit.