Getting married in Kerala feels like a dream with its serene backwaters and lush landscapes! Kerala weddings are renowned for their vibrant cultural heritage,
intricate rituals, and the deep sense of family and community that accompanies each celebration. If you're planning a wedding in this enchanting land, here's the essential Kerala wedding checklist to help guide you through every important step.
Setting a Wedding Date
In Kerala, picking the right wedding date is a big deal, with many families choosing a date based on traditional beliefs. Once you've selected possible dates, consult your elders and family members to find a day that works for everyone. Setting a date early on allows you to move forward with other crucial decisions, such as booking your venue and sending invitations.
Budgeting for the Wedding
Creating a detailed budget is one of the most important steps in planning your Kerala wedding. From the venue to catering, attire, photography, and entertainment, costs can add up quickly. Allocate a portion of your budget for traditional attire, as the elaborate Kasavu saree for the bride and Mundu for the groom are essential to maintaining the cultural authenticity of the ceremony. Use spreadsheets or wedding planning apps to stay organised and ensure everything is covered.
Venue Selection and Decorations
Kerala offers a range of venue options, from elegant traditional Kalyana Mandapams to luxurious beach resorts. Choose a venue that suits your guest list and fits with the theme of your wedding. Discuss your decoration preferences with a professional decorator who understands Kerala’s rich cultural elements. The traditional use of flowers like jasmine and marigold, along with coconut palms and brass lamps, will create an authentic setting that reflects Kerala’s natural beauty and spiritual heritage.
Invitations and Guest List
Creating a guest list and sending out invitations is an exciting part of wedding planning. Consider the preferences of both families and finalise your list early. Kerala wedding invitations are often beautifully designed, with intricate patterns and symbolic elements like elephants and lotus flowers, which hold significant meaning in Kerala culture. Invitations should clearly include the date, time, venue, and RSVP details to ensure all guests can plan their attendance.
Choosing the Perfect Attire
For Kerala weddings, attire is steeped in tradition. Brides wear the Kasavu saree, a cream or off-white silk saree with a golden border, symbolising purity and grace. The groom dons a white Mundu, a two-piece cloth garment, paired with a Neriyathu. These traditional clothes not only honour the cultural heritage but also provide a stunning visual appeal during the ceremonies.
Rituals and Ceremonies
Kerala weddings are celebrated through a series of elaborate rituals, each with profound cultural and spiritual significance. Key ceremonies include the Nuptial Mass, where the bride’s neck is adorned with the Thali (sacred thread) and the exchange of garlands. Another essential ritual is the Saptapadi, where the couple takes seven sacred steps around the fire, symbolising their journey together in life. A knowledgeable priest or elder will guide the couple through these customs to ensure every ritual is performed accurately.
Photography and Videography
Capturing the memories of your Kerala wedding is vital. Hire a professional photographer and videographer who understands the significance of each moment. Whether it's the joyful garland exchange or the quiet serenity of a moment between the couple, these images and videos will help preserve the spirit of the day.
Entertainment and Performances
Music and dance are integral to a Kerala wedding, often incorporating traditional forms like Margam Kali (a dance performed by women) or Thiruvathira (a dance celebrating marital bliss). These performances, accompanied by traditional instruments like the chenda drum, enhance the festive atmosphere and make the event unforgettable.
Guest Accommodations
If you're hosting guests from out of town, arranging comfortable accommodations is essential. Many hotels and resorts in Kerala offer group rates, especially for weddings, so be sure to negotiate in advance. To make logistics easy, consider arranging transportation services from hotels to the wedding venue, ensuring smooth travel for your guests.
Post-Wedding Tasks and Reflection
Once the celebrations come to an end, take time to reflect on the journey. Organise your wedding photos and videos, preserve your wedding attire, and express gratitude to those who made your day special. Remember, the beauty of your Kerala wedding lies not only in the celebration but in the lifelong memories it creates as you embark on this new chapter together.
Planning a wedding in Kerala blends tradition with personal touch. Stick to a checklist to stay organised and make sure all key details are covered, from choosing the right date to coordinating family rituals. This way, you can ensure a smooth, unforgettable celebration!
