All events seem like smooth sailing from the outside, but there is almost always some sort of a dilemma behind the scenes that seems to loom like a threatening black cloud that only the couple and their families experience.
Here are some serious questions posed by brides-to-be, answered by our Resident Wedding Expert Junita Thakorlal.
Q: I've been dreaming of a fairytale wedding for ages, but budget is a major concern. My guestlist is firm, so do you think that I can save by cutting down on the number of appetizers or dishes served?
A: Food is probably the most talked-about topic of conversation by your guests. I definitely don't recommend compromising on it. Instead, spend on your catering and try to cut back elsewhere. Through all of your pre-wedding events, there will be a lot of over-spending and wastage of food so try to think smart about how much to order for each event, or your siblings will be eating leftover palak paneer and stale naan for a whole week
Q: I am in love with my wedding lengha, but get a bit concerned thinking about the weight of it on my head. Is there a quick fix for this?
A: If you choose to go with fashion, there is most-likely no solution for this except a gifted stylist that can try to minimize the weight on your head and neck. The last thing you want is to look stiff and uncomfortable in all of your photos because of your heavy outfits. I strongly suggest that you and your groom both practice walking, sitting, and matha-taking to get used to them. Oh, and remember to double-knot your lengha/churidaar pants just in case.
Q: I have heard so many stories about the bride and groom entering their reception 3 hours late. How can we avoid this if our wedding and reception is on the same day?
A: Easy...make a schedule and stick to it. If you aren't hiring a wedding planner, appoint a responsible, older cousin that people take seriously and get him/her to enforce the timing. If you are late right from the morning, it will be difficult to make up that time.
Q: I love the idea of a themed Sangeet or Engagement. But how do I get all that are invited to comply?
A: This one is a toughie since you can't control what others do. If you put the word out right from the beginning that your party requires a dress code, it will give guests more time to plan. But if things don't go according to your vision, don't get stressed out or let it ruin your evening. Focus on your family and people within your immediate circle to carry out your theme because the last thing you want is to get upset and cause a scene because Preeto Auntie and her 7 daughters came wearing all of the colours of the rainbow.
Q: My cousin is getting married one month before me. Giving cash in an envelope seems thoughtless since she will gift it back to me a month later. What can I give her that will add more meaning?
A: There is a plethora of interesting gift ideas out there, you just need to get creative. Try giving her the cash inside of a dressed purse in her favourite colour. Pictured here is a silk brocade envelope purse wrapped in a bow, with the final touch of a Ganeshji seal from WaxSeals.ca. Another idea is a jewellery box dressed with ribbon. Inspiration provided by CindysWeddingCentre.com
