The journal
Guides for desi celebrations
Straight answers to the questions families ask while planning: the functions, the etiquette and the wording.
- No. 01
Punjabi wedding functions, explained in order
A Punjabi wedding usually unfolds over several days: roka and chunni to seal the match, then mehndi, maiyan and the jaago at home, the chooda and sehra bandi on the morning, the milni and Anand Karaj (or pheras), the doli, and finally the reception. Most families invite guests separately to the mehndi/sangeet, the ceremony and the reception.
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Hindu wedding rituals, explained in order
A Hindu wedding often unfolds over several days: the roka to accept the match, then haldi, mehndi and sangeet, and on the wedding day the baraat, milni, jaimala, kanyadaan and the pheras around the sacred fire. Sindoor and mangalsutra follow, then the vidaai and the bride's griha pravesh. Customs vary widely by region and family.
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Digital vs paper wedding invitations
Printed cards are the most traditional and make the best keepsake, but they're slow, can't change, and don't collect RSVPs. Canva images and video invites are cheap and shareable but static. Invitation websites cost a one-time fee, hold every function, collect RSVPs and update instantly. Many families combine a website with a few printed cards for elders.
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When to send wedding invitations: a desi wedding timeline
Send save-the-dates 3–6 months ahead (earlier if relatives fly in from abroad), the full invitation 6–8 weeks before, and set the RSVP deadline 3–4 weeks before so caterers get final numbers. Visit elders in person with a card and mithai, then send the link with all the details.
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Muslim wedding functions, explained in order
A South Asian Muslim wedding usually unfolds over several days: the mangni to seal the match, dholki evenings of song, the mayun and ubtan, then the mehndi. The baraat brings the groom for the nikah, with ijab-o-qubool, mahr and witnesses, followed by the rukhsati and the walima. Customs vary by family and community.
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How to send wedding invitations on WhatsApp, politely
Call or visit elders before anything goes out on WhatsApp. Then send everyone else a short, personal message with one link, using a broadcast list or individual chats rather than a group, which exposes everyone's number. Mind time zones for overseas relatives, send one or two gentle reminders, and never spam.
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How to collect RSVPs for a multi-function Indian wedding
Ask for a separate yes or no for every function, because the caterer and hall need a number for each one. Set the deadline 3 to 4 weeks before, spell out kids and plus-ones, ask family invitations for an exact headcount, follow up personally with non-responders, and log elders' phone replies in the same list.
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