From the D-day
Almost a year ago, I embarked on one of the most significant adventures of my life—planning my wedding day. The moment I got engaged, my Instagram feed was flooded with wedding-related content—everything from venues and decor to bridal outfits. While it was exciting, it also became overwhelming. With nearly 8 million weddings happening annually in India, how could I make mine stand out? I craved something unique, but sifting through the endless stream of ideas online made it challenging to find anything truly original.
Despite this, I navigated the planning process and would say my wedding was a success. By “success,” I mean most things went according to plan. Of course, not everything was exactly how I envisioned it (but that's totally fine!). One of the beauties of wedding planning is learning to embrace the unexpected moments, allowing space for surprises.
Planning an Indian wedding is no small task. While some people hand the reins to wedding planners, others stick with family traditions or take a more hands-on, creative approach. In this blog, I want to share my personal journey and offer some insights for future brides and grooms gearing up for their special day.
Guests: The Heart of the Celebration
In India, the guest list can be a tricky balancing act. It often starts small but quickly expands to include distant relatives, family friends, and even your parents' business acquaintances—people you may not even know! While this can be overwhelming, it’s essential to remember that your guests are there to celebrate your union. I personally wanted a big, extravagant Indian wedding with lots of people, so I didn’t interfere much with my parents' guest list. Coming from a small town and a joint family, and with both my parents being very social, it was no surprise we ended up with a large guest list.
Venue: Creating the Perfect Atmosphere
Selecting the right venue is like laying the foundation for your entire wedding. For me, it wasn’t just about choosing a scenic spot; it was about finding a location that matched my vision. Whether you dream of a palace wedding, a beachside celebration, or an intimate farmhouse gathering, the venue sets the tone for everything that follows.
At first, I was drawn to the grand and glamorous royal wedding venues, but organizing a wedding with such a large guest list far from home felt like too much work. In the end, we recreated the royal vibe in my hometown, allowing us to invite everyone without any travel hassles.
Tip: When choosing a venue, think about logistics like accessibility, guest capacity, and weather. And always have a backup plan, especially if you’re considering an outdoor venue.
Events: Bringing Your Celebration to Life
Indian weddings aren't limited to just one day—they’re a series of events. From the sangeet to the mehendi, haldi, and reception, it feels like a multi-day festival. While each event holds cultural significance, it’s also a chance to inject your creativity and personal touch.
I wanted each event to have its own identity. With the internet bursting with ideas, I aimed to make my events unique and stand out. We personalized every occasion—from DIY decor at the mehendi to a surprise dance at the sangeet. It wasn’t about making the events grand; it was about ensuring they reflected who we were as a couple.
Tip: You don’t have to go overboard with every event. Sometimes, simple touches and personalization can make them more memorable.
Costumes & Jewellery: A True Reflection of You
Choosing my wedding outfits was a bit of a whirlwind. The variety of lehengas, sarees, and gowns available is overwhelming. However, as I began thinking about what I truly wanted, I realized that comfort and personal style were more important than following the latest bridal trends.
Being a Rajput, it was crucial for me to maintain a sense of royalty while also adding a modern twist that reflected who I am. I didn’t compromise on the budget for my outfits, as feeling confident and like myself was non-negotiable. I opted for bold colors and intricate embroidery, each outfit a reflection of my personality. My jewellery complemented my look without being over the top, creating a perfect balance.
Tip: Don’t feel pressured by trends. Choose outfits and jewellery that make you feel confident, comfortable, and authentic.
Make-up: The Finishing Touch
Finding the right make-up artist is a lot like finding a partner-in-crime for your big day. I wanted to look my best while still feeling like myself. I did multiple make-up trials, and for me, it was important to achieve a natural look that enhanced my features rather than covering them with layers of make-up.
One thing I learned the hard way was the importance of complete look trials, including your hairstyle. I didn’t prioritize a hairstyle trial and regretted it later, so I strongly recommend brides-to-be schedule full look demos before the wedding.
Trousseau: The Essentials After the Big Day
Amid all the wedding madness, the trousseau often gets overlooked. However, it’s just as important. For me, building my trousseau was a balance between tradition and practicality. While it was tempting to pack only heavy sarees and ethnic wear, I made sure to include versatile pieces that I could wear after the wedding festivities.
Tip: Be practical with your trousseau. Include pieces that will serve you in everyday life, not just traditional outfits you might never wear again.
The Unexpected: Embracing Imperfection
No matter how much you plan, certain things will always be out of your control. In my case, there were small hiccups like timing issues and minor decor missteps. But none of it really mattered in the grand scheme of things. What truly mattered was the love between my partner and me, the happiness of our families, and the joy of the moment. Everything else was just extra.
Conclusion: Focus on What Truly Matters
Wedding planning can be overwhelming but remember that, at its core, a wedding is about celebrating love, unity, and family. It’s easy to get caught up in the details, but your happiness is the most important thing. The person you’re marrying, the support of your loved ones, and the memories you create are what truly matter.
I hope my experiences help those who are preparing for their big day. Just remember: it’s your wedding. Do it your way, cherish every moment, and don’t let the small stuff stress you out!
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