STORIES BY MANYAVAR & MOHEY
Lifestyle
Must-Have Elements for Your Indian Wedding Ceremony Program
Date 9 April 2025 Reading time: 7-10 mins
A wedding ceremony program is so much more than a mere formality—it's your chance to make your guests feel truly welcomed and included in your big day! In India, where weddings are grand, multi-day celebrations steeped in rich customs and traditions, a thoughtfully crafted program becomes all the more essential. It not only keeps your guests informed about the ceremony proceedings but also makes for a beautiful keepsake of your special day.
Think of it as a thoughtful way to make your guests feel included while also giving them a sneak peek into the significance of each ritual and tradition. So what exactly should you include in your wedding ceremony program? Let's dive in!
Importance of a Wedding Ceremony Program
Imagine your Punjabi bestie attending a South Indian wedding for the first time. Without a ceremony program, they might be scratching their heads, wondering why the bride and groom are playing 'catch the ring' with their feet (psst, it's actually the Oonjal ceremony!).
A well-designed program contains essential elements of a wedding program that not only outline the sequence of events but also briefly explain the symbolism behind each custom. It's a great way to help your guests from diverse backgrounds feel connected to your culture and traditions.
Plus, it serves as a lovely keepsake of your special day that your guests can treasure long after the last morsel of motichoor laddoo has been polished off! So, let's explore how to create a wedding program.
Key Elements to Include in Your Wedding Ceremony Program
So, what goes into crafting the perfect Indian wedding program? Here are the essential wedding ceremony program ideas to consider:
Order of Events
The most crucial aspect in how to create a wedding program is the order of events. This is particularly important for Indian weddings, which often include multiple rituals and ceremonies. Here's a general outline to follow:
- Processional: This includes the groom's grand entrance (the baraat), followed by the bride's arrival (kanya aagman).
- Exchange of Garlands (jaimala): The bride and groom exchange floral garlands, symbolizing their acceptance of each other.
- Kanyadaan: The bride's parents give their daughter's hand in marriage to the groom.
- Mangal Pheras: The couple takes seven sacred vows around the holy fire.
- Mangalsutra and Sindoor: The groom ties a sacred necklace around the bride's neck and applies vermilion to her forehead, signifying their union.
- Bidaai: The newlyweds exit the ceremony together.
Of course, the exact order may vary depending on your specific cultural traditions. The key is to provide a clear roadmap for your guests to follow through the essential elements of a wedding program.
Wedding Party Information
Your wedding ceremony program is the perfect place to give a shout-out to your squad! Include the names of:
- Bride and Groom (of course!)
- Parents and Grandparents
- Bridesmaids and Groomsmen
You can even add a line or two about how each person is related to or special to you.
Acknowledgements and Dedications
Your wedding day is the perfect opportunity to honour those who have played a significant role in your life. Your wedding ceremony program ideas can include:
- A tribute to grandparents or family members who have passed away
- Special thanks to parents, siblings or friends who have supported you through thick and thin
- An inspirational quote or a few lines of poetry that resonate with you as a couple
Incorporating the Wedding Collection for Men and Women
Your wedding ceremony program is also a fantastic opportunity to showcase your personal style and set the aesthetic tone for your big day. One way to do this is by incorporating essential elements of a wedding program from your chosen wedding attire.
Men's Sherwani Collection for the Wedding
Now that you have the ceremony details sorted, let's talk fashion! The groom and his squad need to look dapper AF, right? A classic sherwani never goes out of style.
Manyavar's stunning collection of sherwanis has something for every groom's unique personality. From regal Banarasi silk to intricate zardozi work, take your pick and get ready to make a royal entrance that'll have your dulhan going weak in the knees!
Wedding Collection for Women: What to Include
The bridal party deserves to look drop-dead gorgeous too! Coordinate your bridesmaids' outfits with the overall wedding theme for a cohesive look. Pastel shades like dusty pink, mint green, and lavender are trending this season.
Don't forget to accessorise with statement jewellery pieces that complement the outfits. Think chaandbalis, maang tikkas, and haath phools for a traditional yet trendy vibe.
Choosing the Right Accessories for Men and Women
No Indian wedding look is complete without the perfect accessories. When selecting your ceremony attire, pay special attention to the finishing touches that will elevate your ensemble.
Accessories for Women: What to Consider
The right accessories can elevate your bridal look from 'nice' to 'knockout'! Consider these points when choosing your bridal bling:
- Match your jewellery to your outfit's colour and embroidery
- Mix and match different styles for a unique look
- Opt for lighter pieces if your lehenga or saree is heavily embellished
- Don't overdo it—let your natural beauty shine through!
Accessories for Men: What to Consider
Grooms, it's time to up your accessory game too! A well-chosen brooch or cufflink can add a touch of panache to your sherwani. Here are some tips:
- Coordinate your safa or turban with your sherwani
- A classic watch or a string of pearls can be a stylish addition
- Juttis or mojaris in vibrant hues can add a pop of colour
- A silk stole draped over your shoulder lends an air of royalty
Selecting the Perfect Wedding Guest Outfits
Your wedding ceremony program can also serve as a gentle guide for your guests, helping them navigate the often-tricky terrain of Indian wedding guest fashion.
Wedding Reception Outfit for Men: Tips and Suggestions
Attending a wedding as a guest? First, check the dress code! If it's a black tie event, you can't go wrong with a sleek tuxedo or a bandhgala suit. For a more laid-back vibe, a well-tailored kurta pajama or a kurta jacket set can be a dapper choice.
Experiment with unique colours and prints to stand out from the crowd. A silk kurta in a rich shade of teal or a printed Nehru jacket can be a fashion-forward pick.
Wedding Reception Outfit for Women: Tips and Suggestions
Ladies, it's your time to shine! A saree in a shimmery fabric like chiffon or georgette is a foolproof choice for a wedding reception. If you prefer lehengas, opt for a lighter silhouette that's easy to dance the night away in.
Trending colours this season include coral, sage green, and dusty blue. And don't be afraid to play with unconventional blouse designs—a strappy back or an off-shoulder ruffle can add a modern edge to a traditional outfit.
Creating a Memorable Wedding Ceremony Program
Your wedding ceremony program is so much more than just a booklet—it's a reflection of your love story and the beautiful journey you're about to embark on. Therefore, do consider these tidbits when pondering how to create a wedding program. By including heartfelt dedications, sentimental details, and a touch of your unique personality, you can create a keepsake that your guests will cherish long after the last bit of confetti has been swept away.
And as you put together the perfect ensembles for your big day alongside stellar wedding ceremony program ideas, don't forget to check out Manyavar and Mohey for their stunning collections of wedding wear for men and women. From regal sherwanis to dreamy lehengas, they have everything you need to look your absolute best on your special day.
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