Asian Weddings
Asian weddings are lavish, colourful affairs and they are a joy to officiate! While there are deeply held faiths and traditions, the emphasis is very much on sharing this blessed union with friends and family.
I am fully trained in all customs of all cultures. Be it Sikh, Muslim, Hindu Punjabi or Hindu Guajarati
Sikh Weddings
Whether it is or is not being held in the Gurdwara, I will gladly attend the Milni if you require. In honour of tradition, I will remove my shoes and cover my head if you wish both at the Milni and the ceremony if I am in attendance
I will liaise with your DJ and caterers so they know what will be happening. For those who do not speak English, I will happily work with you and attempt to learn some directions your own language.
I will arrange a processional if you wish, and work with your Dohl to make sure you and your family get the grand entrance you deserve!
If you choose to make speeches, I will announce each speaker in turn for you. I will also propose a toast to the happy couple if you wish. "Khusa sadi".
Hindu Punjabi/Gujarati Weddings
On this great day, I will attend the Milni if you desire to assist with directing guests to the right places, and to make sure they are attentive as the Jamala takes place and the Pundit offers blessings.
Given the often high numbers present, I can help co-ordinating guests at the Mandap and getting people to where they need to be. I take no part in the ceremony, but can keep guests informed as to what is happening next. I will also announce the Sagan for you if you wish.
If there is a receiving line, I will help co-ordinate and announce this. I will also announce parents into the room.
I will make an announcement for your grand entrance with your Dohl if you have them
I will co-ordinate the cutting of the cake, speeches and first dance for you, to ensure that you have nothing to worry about other than to enjoy this momentous day!
Muslim Weddings
In assisting you with the joy of your Nikkar and Valima, I will work with the family of the bride in getting her to the ceremony at the correct point. I will ensure guests are kept informed as to when the bride has given permission for the Nikkar to take place and maintain a dignified atmosphere for the Imam. I will make all necessary checks to ensure the stage is ready, microphones are set up and that prayer rooms are available for men and women with prayer mats should they be needed.
When the Baraat arrives, I will ensure that all of the ladies from the bride's family are there to meet them, with all the fun of "gate blocking" that goes with it!
Once at the reception, I will make all relevant announcements and propose speakers, keeping things running and easing the stress on the happy couple and their families. I will keep any guests who are unfamiliar of the rituals aware of what is happening and how they can participate, especially when it comes to the more fun things such as sharing milk and stealing the bridegroom's shoes!
Overall, for Asian weddings of all kinds, I am fully aware of customs and traditions, and deeply respectful of them. I work with you to ensure all traditions are observed, but also that they day follows the plan that you have always envisaged. "Shaadi Mubarik".
Testimonials
"I cannot thank you enough for being there on Sunday. You really made the day run like clockwork and thank you for looking after me and Rish. I had so many comments from guests saying that you were great, and the ushers really appreciated having you there too and so did our parents. It felt like you were one of the family! I am still in shock that the day ran on time - for an indian wedding that is almost unheard of!!"
-Sandy & Rish Kapoor, Wroxhall Abbey Estate
"Thank you for your simply excellent work. Not easy to get an Indian wedding work to time, especially at a venue like that"
-Gauri & Jai Verma, Powis Castle
"You did an amazing job and the family are so happy. We would not hesitate to recommend you."
-Shalah on behalf of Sarah and Mudassar, Marriott Grosvenor Square, London
