The Ultimate South Asian Wedding Planning Timeline: From Engagement to ‘I Do’

Congratulations on your engagement! Now begins the exciting journey of planning your South Asian wedding. Whether you dream of a traditional multi-day celebration or a fusion wedding blending South Asian and Western elements, creating a timeline is the first step to ensuring everything runs smoothly.

To help you navigate the whirlwind of wedding planning, we’ve crafted this step-by-step guide to keep you organized and stress-free as you prepare for your big day.

12+ Months Before the Wedding: The Vision Begins

Set a Wedding Date: Consult with family, check auspicious dates (muhurat), and finalize your wedding season.

Discuss Your Budget: Collaborate with family to establish a clear budget for the entire event.

Start Your Venue Search: South Asian weddings require ample space for larger guest lists and rituals. Book early!

Create a Mood Board: Consider themes, color palettes, and the vibe you want for your wedding.

9-12 Months Before the Wedding: The Big Decisions

Hire Key Vendors: Book your photographer, videographer, caterer, and decorator—professionals familiar with South Asian weddings.

Begin Dress Shopping: Plan trips to India or local boutiques for bridal outfits and family attire. Remember to account for multiple events (mehndi, sangeet, reception).

Engage a Planner: If your wedding is large or spans multiple days, a South Asian wedding planner can be invaluable.

Start Jewelry Shopping: South Asian bridal jewelry is an art form. Begin exploring options early to match your outfits.

6-9 Months Before the Wedding: The Details Come Together

Choose Your Invitations: Select digital or print invites, considering cultural motifs and bilingual options if necessary.

Plan Pre-Wedding Events: Coordinate events like the engagement party, haldi, or bridal shower.

Book Entertainment: Secure DJs, live bands, or cultural performers for your sangeet and reception.

Finalize Your Guest List: Start collecting addresses for invitation mailing.

3-6 Months Before the Wedding: The Excitement Builds

Schedule Beauty Trials: Book hair and makeup artists for your events and schedule trials to finalize your bridal look.

Finalize Decor and Menus: Work with your decorator and caterer to plan menus that reflect your heritage and tastes.

Plan Your Honeymoon: Don’t forget to celebrate post-wedding bliss by booking your dream getaway.

Confirm Outfits: Ensure fittings are on schedule and alterations are made.

1-3 Months Before the Wedding: The Final Countdown

Send Invitations: Mail or email your invitations to give guests ample time to RSVP.

Book Mehndi Artists: Finalize henna artists for the bridal mehndi and other guests.

Prepare Wedding Favors: Order or assemble personalized gifts for your guests.

Attend Final Fittings: Ensure every outfit is perfectly tailored and accessorized.

1-4 Weeks Before the Wedding: The Home Stretch

Create a Wedding Day Timeline: Coordinate with your planner or family to finalize a detailed schedule for every event.

Reconfirm Vendors: Ensure all vendors are aligned with timing, locations, and services.

Pack Essentials: Have a bridal bag ready with everything you’ll need—from jewelry to emergency sewing kits.

Relax and Recharge: Take time for self-care and relaxation before the big day.

Pro Tip: Capture Every Moment

Your South Asian wedding will be a whirlwind of emotions, traditions, and celebrations. Having a photographer who understands the intricacies of your culture ensures every beautiful moment is preserved. From the sacred rituals to candid laughter, you’ll cherish these memories forever.

By following this timeline, you’ll feel confident and prepared as you plan your dream South Asian wedding. Ready to get started? Let’s talk about how we can capture your journey with timeless photography!

5 Hilarious but Important Tips to Photographing South Asian Weddings

Hey friends, it’s Amy here, your host of the South Asian Wedding Guru podcast and YouTube channel! Today, we’re diving into something every photographer needs to hear: 5 hilarious but absolutely crucial tips for photographing a South Asian wedding. South Asian weddings aren’t just events—they’re marathons of joy, color, and sometimes chaos. Whether you’re dodging “the aunty,” protecting your shoes from mysterious disappearances or trying not to melt during the baraat, this episode will give you all the laughs AND the tips you need to survive and thrive.

Planning a Seamlessly Blended Indo-American Wedding

Hey there, and welcome to another episode of the South Asian Wedding Guru podcast! Today’s topic is incredibly close to my heart: creating a wedding that seamlessly blends Indian traditions with American elements. If you’re planning a fusion wedding, trust me, you’re in the right place.

As someone born and raised Christian in America and now proudly ‘Married to India,’ I’ve had the privilege of not only experiencing but also capturing countless fusion weddings. And let me tell you, the beauty of combining two awesome cultures into one celebration is unmatched! But, as amazing as it sounds, it can also come with challenges—balancing traditions, overcoming the hurdles of family expectations, and making sure the day truly reflects you as a couple.

12 Must-Have Vendors (Plus 2 Bonus!) for Your South Asian Wedding Dream Team

Planning a South Asian wedding can be overwhelming with so many details to coordinate. That’s why building your vendor dream team is one of the most important steps in the process! 🎉 In this episode of the South Asian Wedding Guru podcast, we’re breaking down the 12 essential vendors every South Asian bride needs—plus two bonus vendors that can elevate your wedding to the next level.

💍 From photographers and caterers to mehndi artists and decorators. Whether you’re a bride, groom, or family member helping plan a South Asian wedding, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you bring your dream wedding to life.

🎧 Have questions or suggestions for future episodes? Drop them in the comments or DM me on Instagram at @theregetis. Don’t forget to subscribe and share with anyone planning their big day!