invitation etiquette

The bride or the groom selects the Indian wedding invitation cards. Even parents and close relatives may take up the task. After a ceremony called a “negotiation,” the wedding invitation cards are ordered for printing depending on the number of guests. The family of the bride and the family of the groom usually select different wedding invitation cards for their guests. In earlier times, a bride didn’t have much say, even in the selection of her groom. However, with the changing times they are having their say. Now, even the wedding programs are being modified to suit their tastes.

The wedding invitation wording on the wedding invitation cards usually starts with the invocation of the Gods that are worshipped by the Hindu religion, if it’s a Hindu wedding. Wedding invitation cards may be printed in any of the many Indian languages or English, or both. Even if it is printed in English, the ancient Vedic Sanskrit mantras are still printed on the cards. Sanskrit mantras in English make for interesting text to read.

Top weddings are marked by lavish spending and elaborate wedding decorations. Generally, Indian weddings are not categorized according to the season, such as winter weddings or fall weddings. The wedding season is determined by the Indian calendar, which is designed in consultation with the Vedic texts on astrology. In some Indian weddings, friends and relatives are invited by applying vermilion powder on the foreheads of the women guests. Indian wedding invitation cards are handed out personally or by mail. Guests are exhorted to grace the occasion and bless the would-be-couple.

Wedding themes are based on the religion or locality of the bride and the groom. Hindu weddings generally follow the Vedic traditions. Wedding programs comprising of song, dance, and music are an essential part of the wedding ceremony. Several additional wedding programs are lined up for the entertainment of the guests and the Indian wedding invitation cards carry the details of the programs. The bride is dressed up to the accompaniment of songs and dances. The groom arrives at the wedding venue along with his entourage of family and friends. They dance and celebrate the joyous moment, sometimes to the accompaniment to Bollywood music. Typical wedding favor ideas in an Indian wedding include giving away clothes, steel utensils, or other gifts.