Events

In Indian culture, haldi or turmeric holds a special place of honor. It is known for its anti-inflammatory and other healing properties, because of which it has become popular as a medicine as well. And, one area where it holds the most important place is when it comes to Indian traditions. In Indian weddings, this amazing ingredient has an entire ceremony to its name. Why haldi holds such a special place? Haldi to keep buri nazar (evil eye) away. The colour of Haldi is auspicious. Haldi for that extra glow. Haldi as an antiseptic. Haldi for purification of the body. Haldi drives away pre-wedding jitters (not sure why you’d have any if you’re marrying Jigar. I mean come on). Haldi for wedding preparation. The yellow colour of Haldi is associated with new beginnings. Haldi helps unmarried ones marry soon.  Haldi as a symbol of blessings. Read more here

I’ll get to this..

In Catholicism marriage is a sacrament that two people administer to each other through their marriage vows and lifelong partnership. Given that to a Catholic sacramental marriage reflects the union of Christ with the church as his mystical body, marriage is understood to be an indissoluble union. The rite commonly takes place during a mass, with a priest serving as the minister of the mass and as a witness to the mutual consent of the couple. The marriage union is used to sanctify both the husband and wife by drawing them into a deeper understanding of God’s love and is intended to be fruitful, with any children to be raised within the teachings of the church. Read more about what to expect during the actual ceremony here

Drinks, food, and mehndi artists for everyone who wants to partake! History and Meaning. Mehndi, also known as henna, is a dye made from Lawsonia inermis, the henna plant. Due to its natural cooling properties, people from warmer climates including the Indian subcontinent, Africa, and the Middle East, have been using henna paste to help control their body temperature for centuries. Mehndi also has medicinal properties: The cooling provides relief from stress, fever, and headaches, so it’s said to calm the bride’s nerves when applied to their hands and feet.

For thousands of years, mehndi has been used as a form of body art. This is why the Mehndi party is often held the day before the wedding—to beautify and bless the bride before their big day. In the Hindu tradition, mehndi is part of the Solah Shringar, or sixteen bridal adornments, which is a ritual for the beautification of the bride from head to toe at the time of their wedding.

Traditionally, it’s said that the darker the stain of the mehndi, the more love the bride will receive from their partner and in-laws. Brides were also told that they shouldn’t do any housework for as long as the stain lasts, which can be up to two to three weeks if natural henna is used. Read more about what to expect here

The arrival of the groom and his party to the ceremony site, called the baraat is celebrated with great joy. As guests arrive, they are divided into the bride and groom’s side. The bride’s side should wait at the stairs in front of City Hall while the groom’s guests join him on his processional entry on McAllister Street (look for the guy on a horse). The groom and guests will have a ‘mini parade’ up to the front of City Hall to be met by the Bride’s family and their guests.
Everyone will enter the venue together (after going through security) and after being seated the event will begin. (Chai and refreshments will be provided).
The entire ceremony should last an hour. Read more about Hindu ceremonies here
For those who won’t be leaving to change and get ready for the reception an extended cocktail hour will begin at 4PM

Try to get to the ceremony and reception as early as possible. There is a parking garage located underground in front of City Hall at Civic Center Plaza (355 McAllister St, San Francisco, CA 94102)

5 PM – 6:30 PM Cocktail Hour (It will be open at 4PM unofficially for those not needing to change)

6:30 PM Guests Seated for Entrances

7 – 8 PM Dinner and toasts

8 PM First dance

Dancing, drinking, fun, desserts

45 minutes into dancing there will be a special guest performance

Last call at 11:45