First of all, congratulations on your engagement! This is one of the most exciting milestones of your life, and it’s the start of a beautiful journey towards your dream wedding day. While the initial wave of excitement might have you jumping straight into Pinterest boards and daydreaming about your Haldi ceremony or the stunning baraat entrance, take a breath. There are a few things you can start doing now that will set the tone for a smooth, stress-free wedding planning experience.

At Shaadi Baraat & Co, we understand the unique blend of emotions that come with planning an Indian wedding. From navigating traditional customs to selecting the perfect venue, we’re here to guide you through the process, making sure your wedding is as magical as you’ve always imagined. Here’s what you should focus on in the first few weeks of being engaged:

1. Celebrate Your Moment
   Before diving headfirst into planning, take time to celebrate your engagement. Whether it’s an intimate family gathering or a fun-filled night with friends, savor this special time before the wedding prep begins. You’ll be neck-deep in guest lists, mandap designs, and venue visits soon enough, so this is your chance to relax and soak in the joy.
2. Set Your Vision
   Your wedding day should be a reflection of who you are as a couple. Do you dream of an elegant Indian wedding in Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane, where modern and traditional elements beautifully collide or a grand wedding in India, surrounded by vibrant colors and rich traditions? This is the time to think about your wedding style, cultural elements, and how you want your big day to feel. Maybe you’re envisioning an extravagant Baraat entrance on a white horse, or an intimate Haldi ceremony surrounded by your closest loved ones. Take some time to think about what matters most to you.
3. Choose a Wedding Date and Season
   Choosing your wedding date is one of the first big decisions you’ll need to make. Do you want a summer wedding, or do you envision a winter celebration with cozy, warm vibes? In Australia, peak wedding season falls between September and April, so booking venues early is essential if you have your heart set on a specific time. If you’re considering destination wedding in India, certain locations are more suitable depending on the season. Be mindful of auspicious dates as well if you’re following Indian marriage traditions.
4. Create Your Guest List
   Your guest list sets the foundation for many of your decisions. Indian weddings are known for their large, joyous gatherings, but whether you’re planning a grand event or something more intimate, it’s important to have a ballpark figure early on. This will influence your budget, the venue size, and even your decor choices. Plus, knowing your numbers will help you figure out accommodation for out-of-town guests, especially if you’re hosting a destination wedding.
5. Research Venues
   Finding the perfect venue is a crucial part of creating the right ambiance for your wedding. Whether you’re looking for Indian wedding venues in Sydney or dreamy palaces in India, it’s best to start early. Some venues book up more than a year in advance! As you visit potential spaces, consider logistics like guest capacity, accommodation options, and whether the venue aligns with the aesthetic you’re going for. For example, if you’re dreaming of an outdoor Haldi ceremony or a grand Indian wedding entrance, make sure the venue can accommodate your vision.
6. Start Thinking About Vendors
   Indian weddings require a diverse team of vendors to bring your dream to life—from caterers who can perfect your biryani to florists who understand the significance of your mandap. If you’re planning an Indian wedding in Sydney, for example, you’ll want to find local vendors who specialize in Indian wedding decorations, music, and cuisine. Look for photographers who understand the unique cultural moments of an Indian marriage, like the Baraat or the emotional Vidai. Create your personalised Indian Wedding Checklist.
7. Explore Decor and Design
   Indian weddings are known for their rich, vibrant decor. Now is the perfect time to start gathering inspiration for your mandap, centerpieces, and stage decor. From traditional marigold garlands and golden accents to more modern, minimalist styles, the options for Indian wedding decorations are endless. Whether you’re drawn to the bright, bold colors of a traditional ceremony or the muted elegance of contemporary weddings, defining your decor style early on will help guide many of your vendor decisions.
8. Enjoy the Planning Journey
   Last but certainly not least, remember to enjoy this journey. The wedding planning process can be a whirlwind, but with the right mindset (and the right wedding planner!), it can be an exciting, joyous experience. Whether it’s choosing the color scheme for your hindu wedding ceremony or practicing your wedding entrance dance, try to savor every moment leading up to your big day.

At Shaadi Baraat & Co, we’re here to ensure every detail of your wedding reflects the love and joy you feel as a couple. Whether you’re planning a grand Baraat entrance, a serene Haldi ceremony, or an elegant reception in one of the finest Indian wedding venues, we take the stress out of planning so you can focus on what matters most—creating beautiful memories that last a lifetime.

Are you ready to start planning your dream Indian wedding? Let’s make it unforgettable together!