Mehendi
The Mehendi is a joyful opening to our wedding celebrations — a relaxed chance for guests to mingle and meet people from both sides and kick-off the celebrations. The bride’s hands and feet are adorned with intricate mehendi (henna) designs to represent love, good fortune, and the excitement of the couple starting a new life together. Those who wish to also get henna are encouraged to join in the fun!
Sangeet
Traditionally, the Sangeet is a night where both families come together to celebrate with music and laughter before the big day. If you know Punjabis, you know two things: we love to dance and we love to eat — so get ready for high-energy performances, fabulous MCs, and authentic Indian flavours and spirits to match. One of the most exciting parts of a modern Sangeet is the choreographed dances, where loved ones rehearse for weeks (or often a few minutes) and light up the stage to Bollywood beats.
Chooda
Since Twiga, we’ve spent five years turning “no” into an adventure - be it Stagecoach, Swiss mountains, or sights and bites across India. Our calendar rotates seamlessly between Diwali and Christmas, proof that while we come from different places, we’re perfectly aligned on what matters most. In these five years Alex quickly showed me that a woman’s place was not in the kitchen, mainly because he was already in it, being a phenomenal chef. He also kept reminding me that home was not a place, but a person. I kept reminding him it was also Fitness First Baker Street.
Baraat
The Baraat is the groom’s wedding procession, and anyone from either side who wants to join is very welcome!. Dhol players set the rhythm, friends & family cheer and dance, as Alex makes his way (down his own aisle) to meet Shayna’s family. Ahead of the Baraat, guests are invited to take part in saffa tying, a traditional turban ceremony that marks the groom’s shift from bachelor to husband, from son to head-of-household-in-waiting, and signals the family's pride and blessing.
Wedding
The wedding kicks off with the Milni, a warm Punjabi ritual where the groom and his family are welcomed by the bride’s family. Following the bride’s entrance, the Varmala / Jai Mala (an exchange of garland’s by the bride and groom) marks the beginning of their partnership.
An Arya Samaj wedding ceremony includes seven pheras — rounds around the sacred fire — each carrying a promise that unites the couple across seven lifetimes:
Duty and supportStrength and resilienceProsperity and wisdomLove and respectBlessings for childrenHealth and peaceLifelong friendship and loyalty
Reception
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Afters
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