MothersMandapMusings: The Planning

As the mother of the bride in America, I envisioned something grand and vibrant for my daughter filled with tradition, joy, and unforgettable memories. It’s a dream that became a beautiful reality. I want this blog to be a helpful guide for families planning an Indian wedding in USA, making the process hopefully stress-free. My knowledge comes from insights shared by fellow travelers before me—passed down through word of mouth. While websites like Knot.com and WeddingWire.com outline the basic wedding planning steps, they miss the nuances of an Indian wedding. Once my daughter announced her engagement, my mind was spinning with questions and emotions. When is the wedding? How much do weddings cost? Should we host the wedding in our hometown, San Francisco Bay Area or, plan a destination wedding? Do we need a wedding planner? Where do we shop for wedding outfits for the best value, India or the U.S? Is there a Hindu priest who knows all the...