The Need To Hire a Wedding Planner

A wedding planner is an invaluable asset. It is absolutely worth hiring one, at least for the day of the wedding.  This may mean shifting your budget around to accommodate for a planner (i.e. by cutting 10 people from the guest list or using less expensive florals).  The value received in return for this expense will be much greater, as it will vastly improve the quality of your guests’ experience.

Having a planner helps increase peace of mind on the big day.  It’s easier for brides and their families to relax and enjoy the moment.

An Indian wedding without a planner is at a higher risk for the following mishaps: incorrect musical cues for entrances, poor sound equipment, cold food with dry naan, a late arrival by the bride and/or groom’s family, or unruly guests making noise during the performances.

What Exactly Is The Role Of A Wedding Planner?

On your wedding day, a planner can help with things like meeting all vendors as they arrive at your venue, delivering your final payments to vendors, ensuring all vendors meet their contractual obligations, ensuring bride and groom entrances are smooth and on cue with music, communicating with your caterer and the venue wait staff to ensure the food is prepared and presented on time, and managing the crowd of guests.

Planners may also help during the planning process by offering advice on types of  venues and vendors, managing vendor relationships, providing experience based on what past clients have done, narrowing down the couple’s crazy ideas into themes, and updating the couple on the latest trends in weddings.
A planner does not do everything during the planning process and wedding day.

When booking a wedding planner, ensure that his or her roles are clear from the outset so you do not have unrealistic expectations, leading to frustration or disappointment. Always be clear in your communications and ensure they deliver on what was promised in the contract.   Remember that they are people too, and that they have other clients!

Types of Wedding Planners: Organizational and Creative 

1) Organizational: An organizational wedding planner can help co-ordinate and communicate with all of your vendors.This type of planner can be hired at any phase of the wedding planning process (days to years ahead of the wedding).

2) Creative Co-Ordination: A creative co-ordination wedding planner will devise a “vision” for your wedding and will execute that vision based on your budget.
It is best to hire this planner from the early stages of the wedding planning process in order to implement their vision throughout your engagement phase (i.e. engagement photos and Save the Date cards) as well as the wedding.

Types of Service Packages Offered 

1) Full Planning: From the engagement to the day of the wedding, this package usually entails regular meetings, budget supervision, attendance or arrangement of vendor meetings, advice on vendor and venue selection, management of vendor relationships and communication, and execution of all tasks on the wedding date.

2) Consultation:  Most planners offer consultation packages for advice on topics such as venue selection or vision conception and design.  These services may be offered at an hourly rate.

3) “Day-of” Planning and Co-ordination: Planners can execute all tasks and scheduling on the wedding date. This type of package is best for brides who already know of the reliable wedding vendors in their community, are on a budget, or have lots of friends and family to help them during the planning process prior to the wedding date.

Lesson Learned: Some planners offer custom packages.  If you think you cannot afford a wedding planner, shop around to see if one can create a custom package for your budget and needs.

Top bridal looks from Lakme Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2013

Lakmé Fashion Week Summer/Resort 2013, held from 21-26 March 2013, was a complete spectacle of fashion, style and glamor. Held at the Grand Hyatt in Mumbai, the 6-day extravaganza saw upcoming designers, fashion gurus, socialites and of course, the Bollywood brigade making a beeline to the flamboyant shows. Occasions picks out the top looks that will help you while planning your wedding trousseau.

Mehendi and Haldi Ceremonies

The mehendi and haldi ceremonies are some of the most important pre-wedding ceremonies that kick off the wedding festivities in any household. While traditions demand that you wear certain auspicious colours, there is nothing wrong in lending a glamorous twist to the age-old attires. You may pick Payal Singhal’s asymmetrical yellow, golden and black suit or Anushree Reddy's floor length anarkali which is the perfect combination of sequins and floral print, it looks vibrant and has the perfect soothing appeal for a summer wedding.





For your cocktail
 
Though not part of the traditional wedding ceremonies, cocktail parties are the trend of the day. A semi-formal event, it demands that you glam it up all the way. Naeem Khan’s metallic gowns or Komal Sood’s feminine sequinned gown, it’s all up to your preference. If you wish to keep it traditional, the shimmery black saree by Manish Malhotra is just the right choice. If you are the lehenga-loving girl, Anushree Reddy’s tulle lehenga in pastel colours must definitely find a place in your trousseau.

For your sangeet

Sangeet is the time to let loose, to shake a leg. Is there any outfit better than the nine-yard wonder? Saree would allow you to move around freely, yet keep the Indian ethos intact for an occasion like this. Manish Malhotra’s neon coloured sarees with noodle-strap blouses should be every bride’s dream choice this season. Or else, our personal favorite the phulkari look with silk pants as seen on Karishma Kapoor.Or try the Vikram Phadnis' rural india collection, Easy to handle yet beyond gorgeous, you will definitely rock the sangeet.

 For your wedding

There are not too many brides who would like to experiment on their wedding day. Going traditional is the way to go for your wedding look. But what if you could add something to the usual red lehengas? How about a red lehenga with intricate white embroidery that Bhairavi Jaikishan has created? Or how about Payal Singhal’s red lehenga with a simple net golden dupatta? Stylish yet traditional, these lehengas are perfect for the summer bride.

 

 For your reception

The wedding festivities are brought to a close by a formal reception. Every bride has her own vision to bring a fitting end. If you prefer it the modern way, opt for pastel gowns like Shehla Khan’s subtle embroidery and light free flowing silhouettes or Rocky Star's embroidered gowns with lace detailing,you have all the choices. In case you want to stick to traditional wear, Tarun Tahiliani's collection offers a variety that is sure to make every bride ecstatic. Be it the a saree or anarkali churidar, you are definitely spoilt for choices.

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Indian Weddings-The Vogue Way

First Ever Vogue India Wedding Show 2013 In Partnership With Taj Group

"Brides-to-be the big day is finally here"

The first ever Vogue Wedding Show 2013 was no less than a page-3 event, held in New Delhi at The Taj Palace on April 4-6 2013. This was a specially curated Exhibition featuring the most luxurious and personalized services to make your dream wedding come true. All the brides-to-be attending the wedding show got personal attention from the world's leading wedding experts.

New bride-to-be's came and got pampered silly at The Vogue Wedding Show 2013. They had all the dream designers lined up to lavish the brides with their undivided attention. Also, they got the opportunity to rub shoulders with the master-creators of the most awe-inspiring bridal jewellery - in a single locale.

TAILOR MADE ESPECIALLY FOR YOU

At The Vogue Wedding Show, the brides were given the Personal Treatment they deserve. Exclusive one-on-one sessions with luxury designers, private consultations with wedding specialists and personal shopping assistants were organized. 

INDIAN BRIDAL COUTURE

Vogue India created the opportunity to meet the country's foremost bridal wear designers in person and spend one-on-one time with them to create the breathtaking wedding day outfit.

Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla - The dynamic duo has dressed leading ladies across the globe - and their classic designs continue to be trousseau staples.  
Anamika Khanna - The petite designer goes out of her way to reflect a bride's personality in her creations, designing outfits that are timeless and elegant.
Pallavi Jaikishan - Over a span of three decades, this trusted designer has always worked with pure fabrics, creating classic outfits that are rich in texture and details.  
Sabyasachi Couture - Having dressed some of the most high-profile brides in the country, red-carpet regular Sabyasachi's eponymous label showcases the best of traditional Indian techniques.  
Suneet Varma - Suneet Varma's encrusted saris are a must-have for all brides. Focusing on glitz, glamour and embellishments, Varma brides always make a statement.  
Tarun Tahiliani - Dressed in his beautiful tailoring, the Tahiliani bride is sure to shine in chic, opulent creations.
Namrata Soni Hair & Make Up- A renowned make up artist who has worked on feature films including: Om Shanti Om, Kabhi Alvidha Aa Kehna, Salaam Namaste , Aisha.

 

JEWELLERY

 

The brides met the finest wedding jewellers from across the country and handpicked from their exclusive collections. Completed their wedding outfits with jewelled masterpieces, trusted by generations of brides.

Mumbai

Anmol Jewellers - Understated and sophisticated jewellery is the hallmark of these designers. Heeramaneck & Son - From fine jewellery pieces to unique objects of art, this is a treasure trove of finds from around the world.  
Kothari Fine Jewels - Renowned for making brides shine for more than three generations. Nirav Modi Jewels - Nirav Modi's designs are light and easy to wear. The jeweller has specifically created pieces with minimal metal so that the diamonds can shine.  
Rose - Rose was created to be the first true luxury Indian-origin brand. With special attention paid to the traditional art of jewellery making, Rose Jewellers caters to a bride strongly in touch with her roots.

Delhi

Bharany's - Established over a century ago, Bharany's Mughal-inspired pieces are for keeps. Hazoorilal Jewellers - Drawing inspiration from around the country, Hazoorilal Jewellers create unique pieces in diamonds, kundan and polki.  
Khanna Jewellers - From traditional gold, kundan and polki jewellery to contemporary diamond jewellery set in gold and platinum. For over 60 years, these jewellers have evolved to set new trends.

Bangalore

Ganjam - Traditional yet modern, the Ganjam signature is understated and classic.

Hyderabad

Krishnadas & Co. and Vijay Vithaldas - Jewellers to the erstwhile Nizams of Hyderabad, Krishnadas continues its tradition of designing jewellery that is reminiscent of a royal time.

Jaipur

AMER by the House of Suranas - In 1735, the House of Surana received royal patronage from Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh. Passing the craft down generations, they continue to create pieces inspired by this cultural legacy.  
Gem Palace - Eight generations of these Jaipur-based jewellers have consistently satisfied loyal customers, who have included Mughal emperors.

Kolkata

Raj Mahtani - Raj Mahtani's Mughal-inspired, baroque and modern jewellery are known for being "larger than life".

International

Damiani - Designing and producing jewellery with precious jewels for three generations, the history of Damiani jewelry is that of an Italian family with a deep-rooted tradition and a passion for the art of jewelry making. This philosophy gives rise to creations, which continue to be handcrafted in Italy, one by one. 

DESTINATION WEDDINGS AND HONEYMOONS

The "to-be-married" met the experts at leading hotels to make their wedding an affair to remember. Be it an engagement, wedding or honeymoon, the incredible range of accommodation, venues and cuisines at these properties, promises to make it a perfect one.

Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai - Be prepared for some serious pampering at the Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai. A destination in itself, take advantage of its many facilities, including the two-floor world-class spa. And if you're in the mood for some adventure, the resort is home to the highest rated water park in the Middle East and Europe.  
One and Only Resorts - If you want to experience hospitality like nothing before, head to a One & Only luxury resort. Peppered around the world on remote islands and exotic locations, these properties promise a wealth of unique experiences.  
Taj Group - It doesn't get more romantic than this. Taj properties across the globe have witnessed great love stories. Whether it's the backdrop to your perfect wedding, or the destination of a blissful honeymoon, know that you will be spoiled in the lap of luxury. 

GIFTING / ACCESSORIES / FASHION

Also the visitors discovered original gifting ideas and newest collections of an impressive range of luxury brands for their trousseau.
 

Christian Louboutin - His distinctive red soles will go perfectly with any bridal lehenga. Known for his decorative and inspired shoes, the designer's imaginative pieces will captivate all audiences.  
DLF Emporio Wedding & Gift Registry - Choose the gifts that you would like to be gifted! DLF Emporio Online Wedding & Gift Registry makes it convenient for your guests to get the gifts you want by offering an online registry with an array of categories that allows you to choose and communicate your wish list graciously to your family and friends.  
Ekaya - Ekaya focuses on contemporary designs rooted in Benaras's rich textile heritage. Blending the eclectic and the ancient is a trademark of this bespoke luxury sari service.  
EZMA - Ezma's collection of fine shawls, stoles and scarves make perfect wedding gifts. What's more: they can also be personalised, with names delicately embossed.  
Forest Essentials - What better way to treat your guests than by presenting them with a hamper of pure and natural Forest Essential products?  
Frazer and Haws - Discover Iconic luxury gifting brand Frazer and Haws, creators of some of the most exquisite silver pieces in the world today.
Judith Leiber - The American label has created a unique trousseau box especially for the Vogue Wedding Show. It can be customized according to the bride's every desire.  
Lladro - Experts in the tradition, art and prestige of porcelain making, Spanish brand Lladro's beautiful designs are the perfect gift.  
Mont Blanc - Experience the luxury of the finest writing instruments exclusively crafted for the elite.  
The Collective - Tailored to your size and unique specifications, create a handcrafted wardrobe with the finest of mens clothing. The collective brings their Armanie Collezioni Su Misura, known for classic cuts and elegant fabrics.

And much much more...

WEDDING PLANNING AND SERVICES

Leading wedding service teams, who took care of the finest details of their luxurious wedding were also an important element of the show.

Vivek Sahni Design- For over two decades, Vivek Sahni has changed wedding card designs to an art form. Rich in narrative and design, Sahni is the go-to man for stylish wedding cards.

Entertainment Design Company - With flagship stores in Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata, EDC has designed elegant bespoke wedding stationary for the country's elite.

FNP Weddings - Making a statement that is impossible to forget, renowned florists Ferns 'n' Petals collaborate with London's premier flower designer, Rob Van Helden. A self confessed perfectionist, Van Helden promises his customers a completely customized consultation.

Harsha K - No matter what the occasion, Harsha Heeramaneck will put together a hamper of goodies that are guaranteed to make you melt.

Sheena Sippy Photography - A Bombay based wedding, portrait and food photographer is best known for her award winning coffee table books. Sheena's impressive portfolio includes photographing Amitabh Bhachchan, Aishwarya Rai, Imran Khan, Naomi Campbell and Zakir Husain, which have been featured in international magazines like British Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, Verve and Cosmopolitan to name a few. 
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Occasions' take on the first time Vogue India Wedding Show

Catering to the niche crowd of the country, Vogue India organized a wedding show from April 4-6 2013 at The Taj Palace, New Delhi. This was the best event that could happen to all the brides-to-be this year. All the major luxury names related to wedding services gathered under one roof.A designer trousseau, make-up and hair by top stylists, a destination wedding and a honeymoon unlike any other. Sounds like the ultimate wedding fantasy. The only problem is that these dream weddings often turn out to be nightmares to plan and execute. But the good news is that Vogue India brings to you a specially curated exhibition featuring the most luxurious and personalized wedding services.So VOGUE WEDDING SHOW, gives you not just a great experience but also takes an initiative to introduce brides to the crème-de-la-crème of Indian Bridal world all in one place!

Most Lavish Indian Weddings

Indian weddings are famous for their ostentatious ways and lavish spreads. While every wedding is special, a few stand out. Yes, there have been a couple of Indian weddings that have stood the test of time and have successfully emerged as the most expensive weddings of all times. Occasions presents India’s most luxurious weddings of all times.

The Sahara Wedding (INR552 crore appx.)

The year was 2004 when Sahara chief Subrata Roy’s sons Sushanto and Seemanto married their sweethearts Richa and Chandni on February 10 and February 14 respectively. 

The Sahara township in Lucknow, UP was transformed into nothing short of a spectacle. While the pre-wedding festivities took place at Swapna Kuti, the grand residence of the Roy’s, the sangeet was held at Hotel Clarks Awadh. The wedding, attended by over 11,000 guests from the world over, was held at the Sahara Auditorium.

Welcoming the guests were Amitabh Bachchan, Anil Ambani, Mulayam Singh Yadav, Kapil Dev and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan along with Roy while Raj Kumar Santoshi captured the entire wedding in his lenses. There were more than 110 cuisines to cater to the taste buds as also entertainment from around the world. 

Sushanto’s outfits were by Rohit Bal whereas Seemanto and the brides’ dresses were by Sabyasachi. But the highlight of the wedding was the community weddings of 101 underprivileged girls from different communities and the distribution of food to around one and half lakh beggars in the country. 

 The Mittal Wedding (INR350 crore appx.)

The grandest Indian wedding till date of London-based industrialist Lakshmi Mittal’s only daughter Vanisha with Amit Bhatia, a London-based banker took place on June 22, 2004 in France. With the wedding festivities taking place at the Palace of Versailles, Vaux Le Vicomte, Jardin-des-Tuileres, Georges Cinq, Hotel Cabaret and Hotel Bristol, it was one fairytale wedding.  

 
Each invitation was a 20-page hand-painted booklet interspersed with poems, description of the venues along with their tickets to France. The wedding trousseau was made by Tarun Tahiliani, Suneet Varma and Abu Jani-Sandeep Khosla. Stars like Kylie Minogue, Shah Rukh Khan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Rani Mukerji, Saif Ali Khan, Akshay Kumar performed at the wedding.

The wedding venue Vaux Le Vicomte was transformed into a vision with pillars, statues, Indian-style palaces complete with Bikaner Palace as the food corner which served a feast of Indian delicacies by renowned chefs from India.

  
The Tanwar Wedding (INR250 crore appx.)

Congress Minister Kanwar Singh Tanwar’s son, Lalit’s wedding to Yogita Jaunapuria took place in 2011 in Delhi. Lalit received a Bell 429 helicopter as a gift from his in-laws. A whopping 21 crore was spent only on the tikka ceremony for the groom’s family.

The guest list included about 15000 people each of whom reportedly received 11,000 rupees as shagun and those who attended the lagan function got a 30 gms silver biscuit, a safari suit and rupees 2100 cash each. This was a high profile political wedding.