Planning An Indian Wedding: 3-Month Guide

Planning an Indian wedding in three months is no easy feat, but it is possible. From finding a venue and vendors to finalising the guest list, there's a lot to do. The sooner you start, the better. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you plan your dream Indian wedding in just 90 days.

Book your hair and makeup artist

Indian weddings can take an average of 12-18 months to plan, so you'll need to be prepared and flexible to plan one in three months.

The bride's hair and makeup artist is one of the most important vendor picks. Top wedding hair and makeup artists can get booked up a year in advance, especially on popular long weekend dates, so it's important to act fast. Instagram is a good place to start your research, as you can find many wedding hair and makeup artists with thousands of likes and followers.

When picking your hair and makeup artist, it's important to find someone who can complement each outfit, highlight your best features, and make you feel like a true princess. For Sikh and Hindu weddings, it's also important to find an artist who can properly set your bridal dupatta, as this can make a big difference in your images.

You'll also want to factor in additional time if you plan for the same artist to cater to more people. Bridal makeup is typically 3 to 5 times as expensive as a party look, so you may want to work with a different hair and makeup artist for your bridal look versus the rest of the wedding party to stay within budget.

Decide on a guest list

Deciding on a guest list is one of the most difficult parts of planning an Indian wedding. It can be hard to make a decision, but there are some top tips to help make the process a little easier. First, make a draft list with your partner. This may change a lot over the following months, but it's good to get a rough idea at the initial stage. You should also discuss potential wedding dates with your preferred venue as soon as possible, as the sooner you do this, the more likely you are to get the date you want.

Indian weddings are often complicated affairs with many moving parts, so it's important to be as prepared and flexible as possible. Wedding planners and day-of coordinators are essential to making the events go smoothly. It's a good idea to book the wedding planner first and then decide on other vendors, as planners have strong relationships in the industry and can help to book the right vendors for different requirements.

When it comes to invitations, WhatsApp and digital invites are preferred these days. However, it's a good idea to make a small number of physical invites for traditional folks who may get offended if they don't receive one.

Choose a venue

When it comes to choosing a venue for your Indian wedding, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, consider the time of year and the weather. If you're planning a summer wedding, make sure the venue has air conditioning to keep your guests comfortable. If you're getting married in spring, be mindful of the possibility of rain and have a backup plan, such as an indoor option or a large outdoor tent.

Next, think about the size of your guest list and choose a venue that can accommodate everyone comfortably. It's also important to consider the location of the venue and how convenient it is for your guests to get to. If you're planning on having a lot of out-of-town guests, look for venues that are easily accessible and have nearby accommodation options.

Another factor to keep in mind is the style and theme of your wedding. If you're going for a traditional Indian wedding, look for venues that can accommodate your cultural needs, such as a mandap or a stage for rituals. You may also want to consider venues that allow outside catering, as Indian weddings often involve a variety of food options, from live paan or jalebi stations to chai carts.

Finally, don't forget to book your venue as soon as possible. With a tight timeline of three months, venues can get booked up quickly, so it's crucial to act fast. Remember to read reviews, ask for recommendations, and visit the venue in person to ensure it meets your requirements.

Order masks and PPE

Indian weddings can take an average of 12-18 months to plan, so you'll need to be prepared and flexible to plan one in three months. Here are some tips for ordering masks and PPE for your wedding:

First, decide on the type of masks you want to order. You can choose from disposable masks, cloth masks, or N95/KN95 masks. Disposable masks are the most cost-effective option, but cloth masks can be more comfortable and stylish. N95/KN95 masks offer the highest level of protection against COVID-19. Consider ordering a mix of mask types to accommodate different preferences and needs.

Next, determine the quantity you need. Order enough masks for all your guests, plus a few extra in case of last-minute additions to your guest list. Don't forget to include masks for the wedding party and any vendors who will be present, such as photographers, caterers, and hair and makeup artists.

When it comes to PPE, you may want to provide more than just masks. Consider ordering face shields, hand sanitiser, and disposable gloves for your guests. These items can be placed at each table or station, allowing guests to help themselves throughout the event.

To add a personal touch, you can customise the masks with your names, wedding date, or a special message. There are many online vendors who offer custom-printed masks in a variety of colours and styles. This option may be more expensive, but it can make your wedding more memorable and unique.

Finally, don't forget to communicate your mask and PPE requirements to your guests. Include a note in your invitations or send a separate email explaining your COVID-19 safety measures. This will help your guests feel informed and prepared for your special day.

Book entertainment

Indian weddings can take an average of 12-18 months to plan, so you'll need to be prepared and flexible to plan one in three months.

Entertainment is a key part of any wedding, and Indian weddings are no exception. If you're planning a wedding in three months, you'll need to act fast to secure the entertainment you want. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Live music: A Sufi live band or a Bollywood dance team are popular choices for Indian weddings. You could also consider a DJ for the reception.
• Interactive experiences: A live painter, a live paan or jalebi station, or a chai cart can add a unique and memorable touch to your wedding.
• Traditions: Finalise a pandit if there is a specific one in mind, or ask your parents or family/community for recommendations.

When booking entertainment, it's important to consider your budget and the overall theme or style of your wedding. It's also a good idea to have a backup plan in case your first choice of entertainment is unavailable. With less than three months to plan, you may need to be flexible and creative in your choices.

Frequently asked questions