A gorgeous wedding executed at the magnificent Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur. With a classy Welcome dinner, two-toned Mehendi ceremony, glamorous Sangeet, and a traditional wedding ceremony, this wedding was one straight out of a fairy tale. From flawless planning, engaging artists and entertainment to impeccable décor, the wedding had it all!
The functions were held at the grounds with the palace as the backdrop, and the objective was to incorporate décor such that it complemented the palace while adding to its elegance. Each function stood out with an exclusive theme and was given a striking feature; for the Mehendi, there was a beautiful circular floral installation that served as the photo booth and stage backdrop as well, while for the Wedding a Ganga Aarti was performed by pandits which added a mesmerizing feel to the moment.
The extravagant affair began with a Vintage Chic themed Welcome dinner held at ITC, Jodhpur grounds. With rustic florals and cozy seating, the vibe was casual-chic which was tied together with the use of wooden elements and varied props.
A color palette of soothing blues and vibrant yellow hues was chosen for the delightful day time Mehendi ceremony. The expansive Umaid Bhawan grounds were decked with elaborate yellow tents with upscale lounge vibes while the trees were adorned with ombre tassel hangings. A pretty swing was created for the bridal seating area and a stylish long table seating for the family with beautiful Jaipuri centerpieces in blue and yellow. The lounges had customized furniture with printed panels and matching coffee tables.
For the glamorous Sangeet, the palace was set aglow with gleaming lights, while the structure served as the perfect scenic backdrop. Embellished screens in gold fabrics lit up the walkway to the function and lush floral arrangements in laser-cut furniture adorned the pathway. A large canopy was created using thousands of twinkling fairy lights while the elegant sit-down dinner area had mirrored tables with elaborate green and white floral centerpieces. The stylish centerpieces were a mix of gold candle stands with lush greens and sumptuous baby’s breath arrangements amidst dainty pillar candles.
The wedding was planned with a traditional and royal feel, and the beauty of the mandap structure was enhanced with floral décor, candles, and lighting. The wedding looked resplendent with royal red and ivory as the prominent colors. The décor had all traditional elements that matched the grace of the venue and the darling couple. Red roses and tuberose garlands were the essences of the décor. The steps to the mandap were decorated with luminescent candles and red floral arrangements creating an exquisite path for the couple to walk on while the ceiling was graced with descending tuberose laddis, antique bells, hanging metal lotuses and diyas. Seating for the post-wedding dinner was given special thought and a unique themed was conceptualized for the sit-down dinner where inspiration was drawn from the mighty sun and the tables were arranged in a manner of emulating the rays of the sun with a giant urn with red florals at the center, representing the sun.
Unfortunately we all can’t have Monica or Rachel as our maid of honor, but we can have someone who we hold dear to our heart. The one who sticks by your side and who can handle both the honor and the responsibilities related with the event.
So whether you have a loving sister, a crazy close group of girlfriends or an amazing sister-in-law, it’s up to you to decide who gets the “Maid of Honor” title. Just make sure you’re making the right choice for you, as the MOH you choose directly impacts the success of your wedding
While we can’t offer a magical formula, but here are some tips on how you can go about in choosing your maid of honor wisely.
IF YOU HAVE MULTIPLE BFF’s
To avoid the drama between friends, it may be wise to choose your sister as your maid of honor. Friends often think they can’t trump the family card, so even if they have expectations of being the MOH, there’s no way they’ll be mad at you for choosing your sister over them.
PICK A GOOD LISTENER
You will need a maid of honor who knows you well, and also be someone who can listen and pick up on your real needs and wants. That way, all the minutest details of your wedding ideas and bachelorette will be the best reflection of you.
SOMEONE WHO LIVES IN CLOSE PROXIMITY
Whether it’s a destination wedding or a traditional Indian wedding, choose someone that can be there, and not have to miss major events like outfit shopping, make-up trials and cake tastings.
CHOOSE YOUR FAVORITE SOCIAL BUTTERFLY
The Maid of Honor who likes to socialize and is comfortable being in larger group, will help in making for smoother wedding planning. Being able to happily organize the Sangeet rehearsals or after party, will definitely take a load off the bride in knowing the MOH has it covered.
WHO HAS MORE EXPERIENCE
It is always a bonus to have someone who knows the ropes and what to expect from an Indian wedding. Some one who has the experience will likely be more supportive of the wedding events, instead of asking silly questions to the bride.
SELECT AN ALL-ROUNDER
From planning the bachelorette party and wedding decorations to attending vendor meetings and crafting DIY projects, there are a ton of responsibilities that come with being a MOH. That’s why; it is advisable to select someone who is an all-rounder.
Just remember that you’re giving somebody a precious gift, which is bound to them happy beyond words.
Wish to have a destination wedding that no one will ever forget? Then remove the sandy beaches, ski slopes and skylines out of the equation. And think of your location as a blank canvas. As you begin to fill it in, just keep these 3 questions in mind: How can I make it exceptional? How can I make it feel like us? How can I make my guests comfortable?
So before you go ahead and book your tickets to Thailand or anywhere else, our team of professional destination wedding planners have laid a full proof plan of how you can entertain all of your loved ones with fun, memory-making and personalized events.
BUILD THE EXCITEMENT
A month before the wedding starts, send your friends and family a teaser via mail to get them excited for their coming trip. You can send them a gift that’s related to your destination — a beautiful shell, a bag of gourmet coffee beans, a fresh lei, or a bottle of local wine.
CREATE A FUN-FILLED ITINERARY
If you’re inviting your family and friends to join you for your destination wedding, it can be fun to plan a few group activities surrounding the big day. After all, how often do your loved ones gather in paradise to celebrate such a momentous occasion right?
ARRANGE TRANSPORT FACILITY FOR YOUR GUESTS
Arrange a van or a luxury bus to pick your guests up from the airport and shuttle them to the resort. If possible, hire a guide who knows a lot about the area as your guests will definitely ask a few questions. For extra brownie points, stick a “Welcome” sign on the van—this will definitely put a smile on their face.
START THE CELEBRATIONS WITH A BANG
The best way to welcome your guests to your destination is with a PARTY. This is a great opportunity to introduce anyone who hasn’t met before, and it also gives you a chance to mix and mingle with guests before the big day arrives.
PERSONALIZED WAKE-UP CALL
Your resort will be happy by this step! Instead of the boring wake-up calls, you and your husband-to-be record a personalized rise-and-shine greeting for your guests. Sing it, especially if you can’t!
SERVE GRAB AND GO MEALS
Coordinate with the restaurant to help pack portable picnic meals that guests can enjoy on the beach or on their daytime excursion.
ADD LOCAL TOUCHES TO THE VENUE
Just like your haldi ceremony back home, you’re bound to have an event as part of your destination wedding too. But why not give it a fun twist? For example, if your resort is at the beach, it’s a great idea to host your haldi ceremony on the shores of your resort’s private beach! Imagine bright yellow décor against the backdrop of the azure blue sea. Exciting, isn’t it?
GIVE YOUR GUESTS A TASTE OF THE LOCAL FLAVOR
As a special surprise to your guests, arrange for a local artist to perform an act in between or during the reception. There are plenty of options like: tarot-card readers, dance troupes, flame throwers, belly dancers etc.
TAKE A GROUP PICTURE
After the wedding, let your wedding planner gather all your guests together to take a group picture. Get the copies made of the photo promptly when you get back from your honeymoon, and include one with each thank-you card. After all, your wedding is a reunion — why not make the most of it?
It’s common for wedding venues to have limitations. After all, those same poor walls and ceilings have been used weekend after weekend, year after year for sticking, taping and pounding. And if you think you can try working against the space, then STOP! You’re not going to turn it into an Italian castle, no matter how hard you try. Your goal is just to try to make the space look festive.
So whether you’re planning for a small haldi or a big roka function, these quick hacks ensure that your wedding venue gets that extra kick it needs to make for lovely photographs!!!
THE MASSIVE SPACE PROBLEM
If, like one of your “Mausi Ki Beti”, you too plan to get married in the social hall of your religious institution, then you are probably going to face the “big ugly space” problem.
The Hack
Hang tall centerpieces (which don’t have to be expensive, should just be big) or lanterns to create a romantic feel. You can also use balloons, simple materials like muslin and paper for fabric draping or just push your tables together. This will make the room feel cozy instead of cavernous.
LOW LIGHT CONDITIONS
The biggest problem with wedding venues is low light levels. It becomes a great challenge for most photographers to take photos in low light conditions.
The Hack
Place flashes in the far corners of the room or consider using light-colored decor and linens to brighten up the space. Also, remember to warn your photographer that light conditions will not be ideal, so that can be planned for.
THE FURNITURE AND STYLE ARE A BIT OUTDATED
When guests arrive, the first they notice are the wedding decorations, specially the chairs. If the chairs clash with the wedding décor, it could possibly ruin the atmosphere of the event.
The Hack
Rent furniture that complements your style of colors. Like “Chiavari Chairs” or “Wimbledon Chairs” are classic choices for uber chic and rustic weddings. This will provide a beautiful backdrop for an elegant rustic wedding.
LOVE THE VENUE – HATE THE CARPET
The wedding theme and the wedding venue are exactly like how you imagined — but the carpet is terrible and doesn’t match with your colour scheme.
The Hack
Keep your guests’ eyes above the carpet. With the lights dimmed, stunning decor and a dance floor covering most of it; your guests won’t be able to tell you the pattern or colour of the carpet once the night is over. And so, the point is made.
UGLY WALLS AND WALLPAPER
If the ugly duckling from the story book could turn into a beautiful swan, then the ugly wall can definitely be transformed without breaking the bank. All it takes is a bit of imagination and inspiration.
The Hack
Use pipe and drape to cover them! The best part is that renting drapery is not very expensive and can go a long way in beautifying a wedding venue. Or you can also utilize projectors and add moving pictures to the dividers. This trick likewise serves as a lighting highlight and gives the space a remarkable look.
It’s no secret that the cost of a wedding today can easily break one’s bank. And while you might have a dozen ideas in mind for the decor, food, venue and attire, it’s exceptionally important to decide on your budget at the outset.
So brides and grooms, take note! Here are a few ways to cut down on wedding costs and still have the Sangeet and wedding reception you always wanted.
D-I-Y Invitation
Instead of designing your wedding invites, create your own wedding invitations and save the date cards. Browse through internet and get the latest ideas for a truly unique invitation.
Limit The Bar
Limit the bar to beer and wine or simply offer a signature drink at your wedding reception. This in return will significantly reduce your beverage tab.
Skip The DJ
After a couple of drinks, the music playing in the background during the cocktail hour is just BACKGROUND MUSIC! So it may not matter if it’s live or streaming off from your friend’s music playlist.
Avoid Giving Wedding Favors
After eating, drinking and dancing for hours at your wedding reception, your guests really don’t need chocolate boxes or picture frames to take back home! So avoid giving wedding favors as these little trinkets add up, especially with more guests.
Avoid Season Time
If you haven’t noticed, the majority of weddings take place from October to December. So plan an off-season wedding celebration and save big on venues, artists, photographers and caterers, etc.
Cut-down The Guest List
While making a guest list, divide it into these categories- close relatives and distant relatives. Now, you need not call each and every one for your wedding reception. Call only the ones with who you and your family are in regular contact. Others can be given a miss!
Use A Private Home As The Wedding Venue
Planning a wedding function at home can cuts down on costs that you would normally pay at a public venue or a reception site. You can also hire the vendors of your choice (and save thousands in catering costs) and also decorate the venue the way you would like.
Remember, no matter what you do! At the end of the day, all the memories and love shared with your family and friends is all that matters!
Ever heard of the rumor that your wedding will pass by in a blink of an eye? Hate to break it, but it’s totally true. Time, as they say, is money! And that’s never truer than when it comes to planning your own wedding. And besides your family and friends, wedding planners will be your only point of contact at every step of this tedious planning process.
So irrespective if it is your first meeting with your wedding planner or a design meeting to make the major decisions for your event, follow these 4 simple ways to make the most of the time you get with your wedding planner.
Maximize Free Time
You’ve got a lot on your plate! So use this “free time” more productively. Instead of watching series on Netflix, use this time to multitask. Make a note of all the things you need to discuss with your wedding planner. From wedding décor ideas and vendors to timelines and permissions, take control of all your checklists and jot it down. This will help in making things go more smoothly for you and you won’t be burdened with any last-minute questions.
Plan Ahead
Make notes between meetings and ask questions that concerns you and your partner. You can bring it up at the end of the meeting or make a point to ask about it on a phone call or email afterwards. Remember, a wedding planner cannot do their job if you do not do yours, so be sure to handle your share of the work appropriately.
Keep Your Meetings to a Manageable Size
When it comes to planning a wedding, everyone from your Bade Chacha to your London Wali Maasi will want to get involved and offer their sagacious advice. However, there is a time and place for everything and not everyone needs to come to meetings with your wedding planner. Invite only the important decision makers, like somebody who will be making payments on your special day. Bringing too many people will only slow things down and confuse the process.
Don’t Gobbledygook During Consultations
Eventually, you and your partner are responsible for the final decisions concerning your functions and your wedding reception. So avoid making big decisions and commitments on the spot. You may make too quick of a decision that you’ll only end up changing later. If you are asked to make a decision and are unsure, ask it to discuss for later after you and your partner have had time to consider it. This is a very special day in your lives and it definitely shouldn’t be affected with quick decisions on big components.
Why is Bali One of the Best Wedding Destinations in the World?
When couples think about a tropical destination wedding, Bali is often the first place that comes to mind.
Known as the “Island of the Gods,” Bali combines breathtaking landscapes, dramatic coastlines, luxury hospitality, and rich cultural experiences. Whether you dream of exchanging vows overlooking the Indian Ocean, hosting a celebration in a private villa surrounded by lush greenery, or planning a luxury wedding at a world-class resort, Bali offers endless possibilities.
One of Bali’s biggest advantages is its versatility. Couples can choose from beachfront resorts, jungle retreats, cliffside venues, and luxury villas while enjoying exceptional hospitality and unforgettable guest experiences.
For Indian couples in particular, Bali has become increasingly popular because it offers the perfect balance between luxury, exclusivity, and value.
If you’re searching for the best wedding place in Bali, these venues deserve a place on your shortlist.
1. The Edge Bali
Why Couples Love It?
Perched dramatically on the cliffs of Uluwatu, The Edge Bali is considered one of the most luxurious wedding venues on the island.
Its iconic glass-bottom sky deck extends over the Indian Ocean, creating one of the most spectacular ceremony locations in the world. The venue offers complete exclusivity, allowing couples to host intimate weddings or lavish multi-day celebrations while enjoying unparalleled ocean views.
The property also features luxury villas, private pools, and exceptional hospitality, making it ideal for couples seeking a truly unforgettable destination wedding experience.
Ideal For:
Ultra-luxury weddings
Intimate celebrations
Cliffside ceremonies
High-net-worth weddings
2. Khayangan Estate
Why Couples Love It?
Why Couples Love It?
Khayangan Estate has become one of Bali’s most iconic luxury wedding venues.
Located on a private clifftop overlooking the ocean, the estate offers complete privacy and some of the most breathtaking views in Bali. The venue features beautifully landscaped gardens, luxurious accommodations, and multiple event spaces that allow couples to host everything from welcome dinners to grand wedding receptions.
Ideal For
Luxury villa weddings
Private celebrations
Multi-day wedding events
Destination weddings with family and friends
3. Villa Vedas
Why Couples Love It?
When people search for a true Bali villa wedding, Villa Vedas is often one of the first venues recommended.
Situated on Bali’s west coast, the property combines beachfront access, luxury accommodation, and spectacular event spaces. The estate can accommodate large guest lists while still maintaining an intimate atmosphere.
One of the venue’s biggest attractions is its versatility. Couples can host ceremonies by the beach, receptions under the stars, and after-parties in a completely private setting.
Villa Vedas is especially popular among Indian couples because it offers ample space for traditional ceremonies and multi-day celebrations.
Ideal For
Villa wedding Bali celebrations
Beachfront weddings
Large guest lists
Multi-day Indian weddings
4. Tirtha Bali
Why Couples Love It?
Few venues in Bali are as instantly recognizable as Tirtha Bali.
Located atop the cliffs of Uluwatu, the venue is famous for its stunning glass chapel overlooking the Indian Ocean. The modern architecture, ocean views, and elegant event spaces make it one of Bali’s most sought-after wedding locations.
Tirtha is particularly popular among couples looking for a sophisticated wedding experience with exceptional photography opportunities.
The venue also provides dedicated wedding planning support, helping couples create a seamless celebration from start to finish.
Ideal For
Elegant destination weddings
Ocean-view ceremonies
Luxury celebrations
Intimate weddings
5. Ayana Resort Bali
Why Couples Love It?
Ayana Resort is one of Bali’s largest and most prestigious wedding destinations.
Spread across 90 hectares of oceanfront property, the resort offers multiple ceremony and reception venues, allowing couples to choose the setting that best matches their vision. From dramatic cliffside venues to private beaches and elegant ballrooms, Ayana offers remarkable flexibility.
The resort is especially appealing for Indian weddings due to its ability to accommodate large guest counts and multiple wedding functions.
Ideal For
Grand destination weddings
Multi-day celebrations
Luxury resort weddings
Large family gatherings
6. Bvlgari Resort Bali
Why Couples Love It?
When it comes to ultra-luxury weddings in Bali, few venues can rival the exclusivity and prestige of Bvlgari Resort Bali. Perched atop a dramatic cliff in Uluwatu, the resort offers breathtaking ocean views, world-class hospitality, and a level of privacy that appeals to celebrities, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth families.
The resort’s elegant architecture blends traditional Balinese design with contemporary Italian luxury, creating a wedding setting that feels both intimate and extraordinary. Couples can host sunset ceremonies overlooking the Indian Ocean followed by lavish receptions in one of Bali’s most luxurious venues.
The venue’s limited number of villas ensures an exclusive guest experience, making it ideal for destination weddings focused on luxury and personalization.
Ideal For
Ultra-luxury weddings
Exclusive celebrations
Celebrity-style weddings
Intimate destination weddings
7. Alila Villas Uluwatu
Why Couples Love It?
Alila Villas Uluwatu has become one of the most photographed wedding venues in Bali, thanks to its iconic cliffside location and contemporary architecture.
The venue is famous for its stunning open-air ceremony platform that appears to float above the ocean. Combined with panoramic views and minimalist luxury, it offers a truly unforgettable wedding experience.
Couples love Alila because it feels sophisticated without being overly traditional. The venue is particularly popular among modern couples seeking elegant celebrations with a strong design aesthetic.
Its luxury villas also make it an excellent option for guests who want to enjoy Bali’s beauty before and after the wedding festivities.
Ideal For
Contemporary weddings
Ocean-view ceremonies
Luxury destination weddings
Modern celebrations
8. Soori Bali
Why Couples Love It?
For couples seeking a wedding venue away from Bali’s more crowded tourist areas, Soori Bali offers tranquility, privacy, and understated luxury.
Located on Bali’s southwest coast, the resort sits between volcanic black-sand beaches and lush rice fields, creating a unique backdrop for wedding celebrations. The venue combines natural beauty with elegant architecture, making it one of Bali’s most exclusive wedding destinations.
Soori Bali is especially popular among couples who prioritize privacy and guest experience over large-scale celebrations.
Ideal For
Intimate weddings
Boutique luxury celebrations
Nature-inspired weddings
Private destination weddings
9. Villa Latitude Bali
Why Couples Love It?
Villa Latitude is among the most sought-after venues for a private villa wedding Bali experience.
Situated on Bali’s southern cliffs, the villa offers panoramic ocean views, luxurious accommodations, and complete exclusivity for wedding celebrations. Unlike hotel venues where multiple events may take place simultaneously, Villa Latitude allows couples to create a fully personalized wedding experience.
The property’s spacious lawns, infinity pool, and elegant event spaces make it particularly attractive for Indian destination weddings that include multiple ceremonies and functions.
Ideal For
Private villa wedding Bali
Luxury family celebrations
Multi-day weddings
Ocean-view receptions
10. The Ungasan Clifftop Resort
Why Couples Love It?
The Ungasan Clifftop Resort is one of Bali’s premier luxury wedding destinations, offering dramatic ocean views and world-class hospitality.
The venue’s iconic Sundays Beach Club provides a spectacular beachfront setting for welcome parties, post-wedding brunches, and sunset celebrations. Meanwhile, the clifftop villas offer privacy, luxury, and stunning ceremony locations.
One of the biggest advantages of The Ungasan is its ability to accommodate both intimate weddings and larger destination celebrations while maintaining a sense of exclusivity.
Ideal For
Luxury destination weddings
Beachfront celebrations
Multi-day wedding experiences
Premium guest hospitality
Why Choose a Villa Wedding in Bali?
One trend that continues to grow among Indian couples is the popularity of the villa wedding Bali experience.
Unlike traditional hotel weddings, private villas offer:
Greater Privacy
The entire property is reserved exclusively for your wedding celebrations, ensuring a more intimate experience.
Complete Customization
Couples have greater flexibility when it comes to décor, entertainment, ceremonies, and guest experiences.
Multi-Day Celebrations
Many villas can accommodate guests on-site, making it easier to host welcome dinners, haldi ceremonies, sangeets, weddings, and receptions across multiple days.
Better Guest Experience
Guests enjoy a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere while spending quality time together throughout the celebration.
For couples looking for a bali villa wedding, venues such as Villa Vedas, Villa Latitude, Khayangan Estate, and The Edge Bali remain among the most popular choices.
How to Choose the Best Wedding Venue in Bali?
With so many exceptional options available, selecting the right venue depends on several factors:
Wedding Style
Ask yourself:
Intimate family gathering?
Beach wedding?
Cliffside ceremony?
Luxury resort celebration?
Private villa wedding?
Guest Count
Some venues are ideal for intimate celebrations, while others can comfortably accommodate several hundred guests.
Budget
Venue costs vary significantly depending on exclusivity, accommodation requirements, and seasonality.
Accessibility
Consider travel time from the airport, guest logistics, and accommodation options nearby.
Privacy
If exclusivity is important, private villas and boutique luxury resorts often provide a better experience than larger hotel properties.
Final Thoughts
Bali continues to be one of the world’s most desirable wedding destinations, offering a perfect combination of luxury, natural beauty, hospitality, and unforgettable experiences.
Whether you envision exchanging vows on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, celebrating in a luxury resort, or hosting an intimate private villa wedding Bali experience with your closest family and friends, the island offers countless possibilities.
From iconic venues such as The Edge, Khayangan Estate, Tirtha Bali, and Ayana Resort to exclusive villa properties like Villa Vedas and Villa Latitude, Bali provides some of the most spectacular wedding venues in Bali Indonesia for destination weddings.
If you’re searching for the best wedding place in Bali, the right venue ultimately depends on your vision, guest experience goals, and celebration style. One thing is certain-Bali remains one of the most magical destinations in the world to begin your forever journey.
Frequently Asked Questions About International Destination Weddings
Which is the best wedding place in Bali for Indian weddings?
Ayana Resort, The Edge, Villa Vedas, Khayangan Estate, and Bvlgari Resort are among the most popular choices.
How much does a villa wedding Bali cost?
Luxury villa weddings in Bali typically range from ₹40 lakhs to several crores depending on guest count, venue, and hospitality requirements.
Are private villa weddings better than resort weddings?
Private villas offer more exclusivity, customization, and privacy, while luxury resorts provide larger infrastructure and guest accommodation options.
What is the best time for a Bali destination wedding?
The dry season between April and October is generally considered the best time for weddings in Bali.
Can Indian wedding ceremonies be conducted in Bali?
Yes. Many venues and planners specialize in Indian weddings and can accommodate traditional ceremonies, décor, catering, and multi-day celebrations.
With every passing year, the hunt for new and unique wedding destination venues increases. Couples want to explore new locations for their vows and want to leave with a magical memory of the most important day of their life. While some couples want to stick to their heritage and stay close to home, some want to explore international destinations with untapped cultures.
With the variety of wedding venues expanding to encompass everything from temples and churches, to beaches and vineyards, having a destination wedding is the trend of today.
Check out some of the top venues of 2019 below
Rajasthan
Elegant palaces, alluring royalty, and rich culture are reasons Rajasthan is one of the top favourites for couples looking for a destination wedding. With its resplendent regal palaces and romantic gardens, this majestic desert state is the perfect locale for a union which is both magical and rooted in Indian traditions.
Some gorgeous locations set right out of a fairy-tale in Rajasthan are Oberoi Udaivilas, Ananta Resorts, Umaid Bhavan, Fairmont Jaipur, and Chunda Palace.
Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur
Umaid Bhawan, Jodhpur
Kerala
Mesmerizing backwaters, lush greenery, spectacular hills, and pleasant weather is what makes Kerela an upcoming destination choice for couples. A unique trend is houseboat weddings; you can host your entire family at a grand houseboat or even opt for a small intimate function to be held there. This is an experience your guests will never forget.
Some gorgeous venues options in Kerela are The Leela Kovalam, The Kumarakom Lake Resort, The Spice Tree, Munar, and The Lake Palace Resort.
Kumarakom lake resort, Kerela
Backwaters of Kerela
Goa
‘Sandy toes and salty kisses’-That’s a line that perfectly describes a wedding in the party destination of India. Couples looking for an intimate wedding affair not too far from home opt for Goa. With tonnes of hotel options to choose from that cater to all your needs, Goa has been a favourite for couples looking for a beach wedding, and will always continue to be.
Some scenic venues to look at in Goa are Zuri Resorts, Grand Hyatt, Holiday Inn, W Goa, among many others.
W, Goa
Zuri white sands, Goa
Italy
With celebrities starting a trend of weddings in Italy, against the gorgeous backdrop of Lake Como, this is a destination choice on the rise in 2019. Italy offers many exquisite venue options, a mix of exotic international florals and rustic décor props that are sure to make your wedding festivities a dream come true. With locations that exude wealth and nobility, Italy is the perfect setting for a beautifully stylish and classy wedding.
Some romantic venues in Italy set along the delightful countryside are Villa D Este, Villa Trullo, Villa Bastia, and Castle Mago Estate.
Borgo Finocchieto, Italy
Villa Monte Nero, Italy
Dubai
There are a number of venues all over the world that customize your wedding function as per your needs. If you’re looking for an international destination, yet close to home, look no further than Dubai! From sandy beaches to sparkling ballrooms, desert ceremonies to cool blue “I Do’s”, and grand celebrations to simple affairs, wedding venues in Dubai against its impressive skyline ensure every couple the perfect place to celebrate the joy of togetherness and love.
Some favourites in Dubai are JW Marriott Marquis Hotel, The Ritz-Carlton, Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Fairmont The Palm among others.
Atlantis the palm, Dubai
Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai
Thailand
Blue seas, gorgeous white beaches, and luxurious hotels are what draw couples to choose Thailand as a wedding destination. Looking for the perfect venue for your big fat Indian wedding? Thailand is your perfect getaway choice. Thailand also serves as an affordable option as decor and flowers in Thailand are much cheaper than that available in India on the same scale
Some popular destinations in Thailand besides Bangkok are Krabi, Hua Hin and Phuket, Rayong, Pattaya, and Koh Samui. Some hotel options being Sofitel in Krabi, JW Marriott in Phuket and Anantara in Bangkok.
Anantara Hua hin, Thailand
Banyan-tree-resort Koh-Samui, Thailand
Switzerland
With an Ambani wedding function being hosted in the Swiss Alps, this location has charmed many with its potential as a winter wonderland wedding destination.
If you’re looking to whisk away your guests to an alluring destination, Switzerland should be your choice! The gorgeous locations are set right out of a fairy tale, no less than paradise itself, perfect for nature lovers to enjoy a peaceful wedding surrounded by the snow-clad mountains.
The Ambani ceremony was held in the mystical St. Moritz.
Some other dreamy international destinations to look out for are Bali, Fiji Islands, Macau, Turkey, and Sri Lanka, while some destinations in India are Delhi, Mussoorie, Hyderabad, Telangana among others.
Carlton Hotel St. Moritz, Switzerland
Grand Hotel Des Bains Kempinski St. Moritz, Switzerland
A welcome dinner or lunch is usually an amazing idea to get both sides of the families together for some fun before the wedding festivities start. It’s a perfect kick start for some gathering and excitement. A good anchor helps to break the ice and organize fun family games with the relatives as this sets the base for the next few days that everyone will be spending together. Wedding dinner themes should be welcoming and something that the couple feels will be the vibe for both families.
The wedding decoration
The decor is without a doubt an intrinsic element for any event and sets the aura of the event. Be it a megawatt moment or err on the more casual side, the tone for the celebration is entirely up to the bride and the groom and the family as the wedding is the place that really represents who you are as a couple.
Hawaiian Themed Welcome Lunch
A Luau welcome lunch held at an exotic Rajasthan location made the venue look alive with the festive Hawaiian themed decorations. Servers in matching Hawaiian themed outfits moved around offering cool drinks and bites to guests. Exotic fruit art centre pieces and lots of lush greens used with edibles like chocolates and fruits decked the tables with the tropical feel. The couple seating, welcome signage and the DJ console were also all decked with glorious floral to match the vibe and the overall feel of the lunch was such that the guests felt transported to an another place!
A Rustic Grand Welcome Dinner
Another theme used for an exotic welcome dinner was that of a rustic, Buddha bar with tikki torches lining up the pathway to the venue and a 15-foot Buddha statue that stole all the attention. With the perfect whisk of tribal feel, lively foot-tapping music, entertainment artists and decorations done up with twinkling fairy lights that lit up tented cabana style seating at the poolside with desiccated flowers and over a thousand scented candles looked simply magical. The rustic decor adorned with Pampas grass, real dried flowers, lush green ariel hangings read extravagance from every angle. A live chocolate station with servers dressed up as rustic deers, Tanoura dancers and fire acts lit up the night. The highlight of the welcome dinner was 3D wall mapping of the specially curated wedding logo and a pool side venue with an alluring bridge.
At Dreamzkrraft, we believe in fabricating spectacular extravaganza for our lovely couple and the family. Our team meticulously designs and customises every detail to turn our client’s dreams into reality. We do believe wedding decoration plays a major aesthetic part for the welcome dinner, but our planning team also takes care that we focus on family and friends, as to how engaging and homely the dinner feels with fun games, quirky food and drinks, spectacular artists, eye-catchy signages and much more.
Our decor heads help to design your theme that represents a unique personality of the couple. It could be a The Great-Gatsby theme, or a vibrant Bollywood theme, Tropical theme, Retro’s disco theme, Royal theme and a lot more depending on what our couple likes. We orchestrate every detail with finesse, and craft and astounding event according to your likes.
It’s the beginning of a new year, and the beginning of exciting new trends in marriages.
While the last two years were quite a roller coaster, couples are making up for it now by making sure their special day has a whole new look and feel.
Punchy hues, immersive experiences and larger-than-life experiences – 2023 is all set to bring forth a host of exciting new trends in Indian weddings.
And for those of you planning your wedding this year, here is the lowdown on the hottest wedding trends to help you execute the perfect celebration with your family members.
1. The Big, Fat, Indian Wedding
Post- covid, Indian weddings are getting bigger and fancier. Families are increasingly going for big, fat, Indian weddings with large setups, grand decor, themed events and plenty of entertainment.
With the minimalistic trend on the out, everything needs to have an impact. So bold designs, where the decor makes a statement, statement pieces, massive setups and themed events are becoming the norm in Indian weddings. We are also seeing many larger-than-life floral installations and lots of mirrors, all designed to a massive scale.
The trend of royal Indian weddings goes hand-in-hand with this. A wedding ceremony amidst a grand, palace-like setup, gorgeous floral arrangements, the bride and groom’s grand entry, a feast fit for a king and memories that will last a lifetime.
2. Fusion of Modern and Traditional Indian Wedding
While the Big, Fat, Indian Weddings are in, couples don’t want to go completely traditional. They are looking for a mixture of Indian traditions and modern elements to make the wedding more in tune with their sensibilities.
This is actually extremely interesting because we are seeing a complete revival of traditional craft techniques with elements of storytelling. Brides are also opting to reuse saris and lehengas that have been in the family for decades, either as they are or by customising them according to modern trends.
The art of mix-matching is another way this fusion seeps into bridal fashion. Brides today are looking for versatile options that are comfortable to wear and carry, and can also be used a decade later without feeling dated. Some great examples of this is a pant-sari with a Banarasi weave or a lehenga-sari with a Kanjeevaram weave.
3. Heritage Weddings
The statuesque beauty and grandeur of a bygone era can be very seductive. And Indians living abroad have definitely been seduced by India’s rich heritage. That’s why they are increasingly more interested in heritage properties and the old-fashioned look and feel of hotels that remind people of a time gone by. This also ties in with the concept of a Big, Indian Wedding.
Wedding designers are also coming up with ways of combining the romance of heritage without the outfit looking too dated. Silhouettes built on a lacy foundation of chikankari, kasab lace, and nakshi embroidery, are an excellent example.
4. Destination Weddings
While not a new concept, destination weddings have picked up in popularity post covid. Couples are looking at different venues and countries that promise a unique experience, the more luxurious the better.
A grand tour of Europe, a scenic jaunt through California’s wine country, a spectacular wedding ceremony in the middle of gorgeous Dubai, or an exploration of the Peruvian countryside – destination weddings are perfect for those who love to explore new destinations and want their wedding to be different from the rest.
5. Statement decor in Indian Weddings
With huge weddings come huge responsibilities; namely decor that will do it justice, but at the same time, won’t overwhelm the main event or take attention away from it. So when it comes to wedding decorations, statement pieces are the best way to go. Some great examples are:
Floral Arrangements:
Romantic, versatile and perfect for any theme, florals are the perfect statement pieces. But if you don’t want your wedding decor to look like something that has been done a million times before, make sure you design something that will actually become a talking point at the wedding. This can be a main centrepiece, a floral wall, a main wedding arch or a floral photo wall.
Floral Backdrop:
A floral statement piece can serve as a beautiful backdrop for your photo-ops. It can also serve as a way to transform the wedding area, making it look more intimate and romantic.
Hanging Statement Pieces:
When planning the decor, the ceiling tends to become an afterthought, but is actually one of the most important aspects of the entire decor. Utilising the ceiling adds textures and layers to your wedding decorations, but at the same time, you don’t want to make it complicated. So use hanging statement pieces that take advantage of every angle. You can use lighting interspersed with floral arrangements to make it more spectacular. Elevating a gorgeous chandelier with drapery or organic decorations will give the event an extra edge.
6. The eco-friendly touch
While sustainability or eco-friendly elements are becoming de rigeur for 2023, there isn’t much scope for them in larger – than – life weddings. But, having said that, a touch of nature can be extremely romantic. So if the occasion calls for a natural element and you are looking to inject some romance in your celebrations, turn to nature for some inspiration. For instance, you can let illustrations of budding blossoms, lush leaves and chirping birds adorn your invites. In fact, florals are very much in. Couples are now focusing on floral and tropical-themed invites, with some pastels thrown in for good measure.
On the other hand, if you are looking at sustainability all the way, you can look at a ceremony right in the lap of nature. The stage can be set amidst verdant greenery and beautiful blossoms, with simple decorations, such as earthen lamps, candles, oil lanterns, and reflectors & glass reflectors to illuminate the area.
7. Beach Weddings
Aah! The beauty and romance of a simple beach wedding. And if you are planning the ceremony on the sandy, white beaches of the Maldives or the Caribbean, then even a simple ceremony promises wonderful memories.
And the beauty of a ceremony like this is that it can be as simple or as grand as you want it to be. Heart set on minimalism? Then a summery, floral look, with a quaint stage and a seating area is all that you need. And the more elements you add, the grander the ceremony becomes.
8. Statement outfits & jewellery in Indian Weddings
If bigger is better is the mantra for this wedding season, then why should the wedding outfits be left behind? Whether saris or lehengas, statement pieces are in, this year.
For instance, brides are opting for lehengas with long, beautifully-adorned veils and saris with intricate embroidery, teamed with classic silhouettes and ageless embroideries that never go out of style.
Repurposing older outfits is another part of this trend. So if you are planning on honouring your mother or grandmother by wearing the lehenga or sari she got married in, you can choose to wear it as is or change it around to make it your own.
Talking about jewellery, heavy jewellery, heirloom pieces, layered necklaces and stacked bangles are in this wedding season. Every bride wants her jewellery to make a statement this wedding season, and so should you.
And if you are ready to experiment a little, then floating diamonds, mixed-and-matched gemstones and non-traditional colours (such as turquoise) will give you a unique, regal allure.
9. Food in Indian Wedding
When everything is grand and larger-than-life, why should food get left behind?
2023 is going to be the year for experimental menus and cuisines at weddings. This runs the gamut from curated menus to exotic cuisines to molecular gastronomy.
When you think of international cuisine, what comes to mind? Pasta, ravioli, jerk chicken? Well, Indian weddings seem to have gone a step further. We can see artisanal cheeses like Burrata from Puglia, and even Truffle and Mushroom bars and black radish have become prominent at Indian weddings.
Luxurious menus, curated specially by celebrity chefs and professionally styled, are the next thing in line when you want your food to become an experience.
Think of this. You opt for the best cuisines from across the globe but what if you aren’t happy with the way they’re presented? So couples are now hiring a food stylist to work with the caterer and designer and translate the entire experience into a visual delight that is consistent with the theme of the wedding function. From the servers to the platters, the cutlery and the buffet table, the stylist’s job is to align the wedding menu with the theme of the wedding to make it an unforgettable experience.
Now comes molecular gastronomy. So if science tickles your senses and gives you a rush, then molecular gastronomy would definitely appeal to you. Cocktail ice spheres, transparent ravioli, oak moss vapor, crab ice-cream are some of the exciting examples that are making their way into Indian weddings.
In the Indian context, tamarind water, served as a sphere, along with puri is a very clever version of pani puri.
10. Pre-wedding ceremonies
Roka, mehendi, sangeet, bachelor parties, hen nights, these are all pre-wedding ceremonies that need just as much attention and planning as the main wedding ceremony. These ceremonies also change depending on which state in India you hail from.
In northern India, the engagement is called the Mangni, in southern India, it’s the Nischitartham. Similarly, the Haldi ceremony in North India is also known as Manjha for Muslim weddings, Supra nu Murat for Parsi weddings and Roce for Christian weddings.
But while the ceremonies may differ, the desire to tweak them according to modern trends remains the same. So if your are also looking for a way to make your pre-wedding ceremonies unique, the engagement ceremony is a good place to start. Some examples would be themed mangnis, with themes ranging from game night to carnivals to anime.