Cochin Club

Thaleduvasam

Wedding

Chithrapuzha, Panackalody Properties

Cocktail Party

Chakolas Pavilion

Wedding Reception

Our Wedding

Our Story

Photos

Gabrielle Mathews

Jasleen Saggu

Keith Joseph

Abel Mathew

Linda Martin

Zara Aftab

Priyanka Jayakumar

Sharon Shibu

Sonal Singh

Donnah Maria Antao

Alma Johnson

Janaki Sagu

Jacob Abraham

Nihal

Wedding Party

Q + A

We are so excited to celebrate our new beginning with our friends and family! We wanted to give you as much as information as possible in advance, especially for those travelling across the globe We suggest that people fly into Cochin International Airport (COK) which is a 23-45 minute drive from Ernakulam. Cochin is also written as Kochi, so you may see both when searching for travel information on Google. Here’s the schedule of events: Madhuramveppu: Sunday, January 18thLocation: Kakkanad (more info to come) Madhuramveppu is a sweet pre-wedding ceremony from Kerala. The word literally means “offering sweets” and symbolizes wishing the bride and groom a sweet, prosperous life together. Family members and friends take turns feeding the bride and groom a small bite of a traditional sweets. It’s symbolic—like saying, “May your married life be filled with sweetness.” Expect lots of lighthearted teasing, singing, and fun. Think of it as a mix between a family blessing ceremony and a mini celebration. It’s casual and family-oriented. No dress code stress – Guests usually wear nice semi-formal or festive clothes. Western dresses, shirts, or anything you’d wear to a family celebration is perfect. But if you can, wear pink! Wedding: Thursday, January 22ndLocation: Balakrishna Convention Center, Aranmula Since this location is quite far from Cochin in the more remote parts of Kerala, we understand if this not feasible. It also happens to be mostly a church ceremony so no pressure to attend. Cocktail Party: Friday, January 23rdLocation: Kakkanad (more info to come) We’ll be serving a few themed cocktails inspired by the bride, groom, and our favorite memories. Expect everything from refreshing tropical flavors to nostalgic creations from our college days. Dance floor will be open with everything from Bollywood bangers to American throwback hits. When the dancing + drinks start to hit, we introduce the Kerala version of late-night street food: “drunk dosa.” Think of it like grabbing tacos or pizza after a night out—but instead you get: hot crispy dosas, spicy chutneys and maybe a little chaos at the dosa live counter. This evening is meant to be joyful, warm, slightly unhinged in the best way. You can wear any cocktail attire (non-white). Men should feel no pressure to wear jackets (it'll be hot!). Wedding Reception: Saturday, January 24thLocation: Chakolas Pavilion, Kochi Our Wedding Reception is the most formal event of the celebrations. It follows the traditions of a Kerala Christian wedding and is an evening meant to honor the couple, the families, and everyone who has gathered to celebrate with us. Unlike some of the other wedding events, this night has a more polished, elegant atmosphere. Guests dress up, gather together, and enjoy a classic reception program as the newlyweds are introduced as husband and wife. The evening includes a few simple, traditional moments: cake cutting by the bride and groom, short prayers and blessings from family or clergy, and a few formal introductions or words of thanks.Expect a large buffet featuring some of the best local Kerala dishes—comforting, flavorful, and made for sharing. This is the event to get fancy. Think:black outfits, sequins, sparkle, or shimmer, cocktail attire or formal wear, bold accessories, if you’d like. Kerala is too hot for coats and jackets so ditch those at home! When to arrive? If you’d like to join us Madhuramveppu (rehearsal dinner), please arrive by - latest - the evening of the 17th or morning of the 18th. Since you have a gap between the 18th and the 23rd, this would be a great opportunity to see other parts of Kerala such as Munnar, do a house boat, or even explore outside of Kerala (we highly recommend Goa!). If you only plan to be there for the events on the 23rd and 24th, you can come in on the any time the 23rd (but you may be really jet-lagged during the wedding). If you want to explore Kerala, or shop for Indian wedding outfits, please arrive earlier. As of mid-Jan, the round trip flights to Cochin from Chicago cost just under $1000-$1200. Typical range of flights is anywhere from $800-$1300 from larger airports. Prices tend to be higher from smaller airports. We recommend Qatar Airways, Ethihad and Emirates. TransportationGuests may need to travel to the locations via auto-rickshaw, Uber or Ola. We strongly advise against renting a car for yourself because traffic in India has a mind of its own. What to know about Kerala and Cochin:Kerala is one of the southern-most states of India. Cochin (also written as Kochi) has a population of 3.5 million people. Kerala is bordered by the Arabian Sea to its west and by the Western Ghats (mountains) on its east border. The state is known for its greenery. Its official tourism tagline is "God's Own Country". Malayalam and English are official languages of the state. There are a lot of Christians, like our families, in Kerala, so there are a lot of old churches to see. Most of the population is Hindu and Muslim, so there are also beautiful temples and mosques to visit as well. Check out this video of things to do in Kerala: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eEiTRuIYmdI

Visa InformationUS Citizens are required to obtain a visa for entry into India. We have compiled the necessary information, a sample visa application, and payment requirements below for your convenience. For more information&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cgisf.gov.in/page/e-visa/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">please access this website</a>&nbsp;or reach out with any additional questions! Where to apply:&nbsp;<a href="https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/Registration" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/Registration</a>Port of Arrival:Cochin AirportVisa Service:eTourist Visa (for 30 days) allows for 2 entries.Expected Date of Arrival:We recommend folks arrive 2-3 days before the wedding to adjust to jet lag and have some time to explore prior to wedding events.Places to be visited:Kerala and anywhere else you see yourself visiting!Expected port of exit:Cochin Airport, unless you are traveling within the countryReference in India:Name:Address:Phone:Photograph:Recent front facing photograph with white background. Please make sure you follow the requirements of the photo page, we would hate for your application to be denied for this reasonPassport Copy:Photo page of Passport containing personal details like name, date of birth, nationality, expiry date etc are to be uploaded mandatorily by the applicant.Payment:The 30-day e-tourist visa costs&nbsp;$25. For Bank transaction charges of 2.5% will be charged additionally on applicable e-Visa fees. The fee must be paid at least 4 days before the expected date of travel otherwise application will not be processed. e-Visa fee once submitted is non-refundable as the fee is for processing of the application and is not dependent on either Grant or Rejection of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). The e-Visa fee payment status update may take up to 2 hours due to technical reasons/network delays. Before re-applying, the applicants are requested to wait for 2 hours for payment status updating, after final submission of the application form and payment of the fee. Additional Details:Passport used by the applicant should have at least six-months validity from the date of arrival in India. The passport should have at least two blank pages for stamping by the Immigration Officer on arrival.Biometric details of the applicant will be mandatorily captured at Immigration on arrival in India. e-Visa is non-extendable, non-convertible &amp; not valid for visiting Protected/Restricted and Cantonment Areas. If you intend to visit Protected/Restricted/Cantonment areas, you would require prior permission from the Civil Authority.You will receive your Electronic Travel Authorization in an email once the e-tourist visa is approved.&nbsp;Applicants should carry a copy of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) along with him/her at the time of travel.&nbsp;Please confirm that your ETA status is shown as 'GRANTED' on this website prior to commencement of your journey. Sample Application:&nbsp;<a href="https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/images/SampleForm.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/images/SampleForm.pdf</a>

Travel

While You’re in Kochi

If you have free time, eat your way through the city—Kochi is one of Kerala’s best food hubs.We recommend staying in Fort Kochi, a historic seaside neighborhood filled with great cafés, rooftop spots, bakeries, and Kerala restaurants.Stroll the charming streets, try local seafood, visit cute boutiques, and enjoy the laid-back coastal vibe. It’s the perfect place to explore between wedding events. House Boat CruiseIf you have extra time, consider doing a houseboat cruise in Alleppey—one of Kerala’s most iconic experiences. A houseboat is a slow, scenic boat that takes you through the peaceful backwaters, past palm trees, small villages, and rice paddies.On board, you can relax, enjoy the views, eat freshly cooked Kerala meals, sunbathe on the deck, read, nap, or just float in silence.You can book one through https://www.wavesanddales.com/ SUP &amp; Kayaking in the BackwatersFor something a little more adventurous, you can try stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) or kayaking in the Kerala backwaters. It’s a peaceful way to explore smaller canals that big boats can’t reach, gliding past coconut groves, quiet villages, and stunning sunrise or sunset views.It’s beginner-friendly, guided, and incredibly scenic—perfect if you want a calm, nature-filled activity in between wedding events.

Make the Most of Your Trip to India — Places to Explore While You’re Here

Since you’re already traveling all the way to Kerala for our wedding, we wanted to share a few amazing destinations you might consider adding to your trip. India is incredibly diverse—each region feels like a completely different country—so even a few extra days can give you a taste of its landscapes, history, and culture.🌿 Munnar (Kerala)A perfect getaway from Kochi, Munnar is all rolling green tea plantations, misty hills, and quiet mountain air. It’s ideal if you want a peaceful nature break, scenic viewpoints, and a cooler climate. Great for Jeep tours, tea tastings, and sunrise treks. If you do decide to go, we HIGHLY recommend The Valle Munnar.🌴 Goa (West Coast)If you’re craving beaches and relaxation, Goa is India’s laid-back coastal paradise. Think beautiful beaches, adorable cafés, colorful Portuguese-inspired towns, great seafood, and a fun nightlife scene. It’s perfect for unwinding before or after the wedding.🏰 Agra (North India)Home of the iconic Taj Mahal—one of the world’s most famous monuments and truly worth seeing in person. Many travelers pair Agra with a quick visit to Delhi or Jaipur as part of the “Golden Triangle,” which showcases India’s history, architecture, and food.⛰️ Ladakh (Himalayas)For the adventurous traveler, Ladakh is a high-altitude desert in the Himalayas with breathtaking mountain views, crystal-blue lakes, and Buddhist monasteries. It’s peaceful, dramatic, and unlike anywhere else. (Best for travelers comfortable with altitude and cooler weather.)

Things to Do

Registry

Our Favorite Cafés

<a href="https://share.google/fXpbI2wBc50TXK2Fl" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Coz Coffee</a>(highly recommend the beef steak with peppecorn sauce)

<a href="https://share.google/3CuiSD6AXq8Ijx3QO" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">French Toast</a>(great savoury french toast dishes)

<a href="https://share.google/S5lAQNoVwr0tsRpXn" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pandhal Cafe and Deli</a>

<a href="https://share.google/d7LARGS5n6LvYrggT" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kashi Art Cafe</a>(get the chocolate cake!)

<a href="https://share.google/bVdaHihJuGa8r5U5i" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Malabar Cafe</a>

<a href="https://share.google/WuL2u61GuFRXt9BTk" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Croft</a>

<a href="https://share.google/PZTBUFkpA0wERy68K" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Loafers Corner</a>

<a href="https://share.google/O6KkHkdp7vwAYFtC9" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cafficana</a>

Local Cuisine

Grand Hotel

<a href="https://share.google/TxYFIAuN6I6zqJ9e2" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Chef Pillai Resturaunt</a>

<a href="https://share.google/TxYFIAuN6I6zqJ9e2" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Paragon</a>

<a href="https://share.google/TV4uGKMyMFJvwRYtO" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Urban Paratha</a>

BARS & PUBS

<a href="https://share.google/ITpF1JUYku786Ctgl" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Hortus</a>(cocktails with local flavours)

<a href="https://share.google/r4ZY7rc6upyCkIxow" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Colony Clubhouse &amp; Grill</a>(rooftop bar with views of the backwaters &amp; specialty cocktails)

<a href="https://share.google/bCYcnip7KCiPxAQXy" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Francis</a>(local dive bar where toursits and locals come together)

<a href="https://share.google/c58GYbisZZShRpduU" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Velocity</a>(think clubbing with excellent food)

Other Cuisine

<a href="https://share.google/4Bs61AOT4AOteyUvt" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Burger Junction</a>(some of the best burgers we've had)

<a href="https://share.google/b6bgWBDZXbOBRHYRe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">District 7</a>

<a href="https://share.google/3tIdFUKIe8UbWp7sQ" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Errachi</a>(best beef brisket!)

<a href="https://share.google/Qh1q4HDxhEmM5wRzJ" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Grana Pizzeria</a>

DESSERT

(just so you know, we take our ice cream very seriously)

<a href="https://share.google/1GWJTYs3hZMUYzIQC" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Naturals</a>(local flavors)

<a href="https://share.google/Qu4fbH57dFfeT5kJq" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Paul's Creamery</a>(TRUST)

<a href="https://share.google/3fLzo1UPD0MoUJXgs" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Milano Ice Cream</a>(great gelato)

<a href="https://share.google/6SZIW1mRziF2SUbkq" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bikash Babu Sweets</a>(if you want to try indian sweets)

Local Food Spots

Clothes

<a href="https://share.google/TMJkIYLesG5Im8pRZ" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Fabindia</a>

<a href="https://share.google/6AC8QkHZSeZjo0yzg" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Anokhi</a>

Nithin & Leeza

Nithin & Leeza

Shopping

Clothes