Great ideas for an ‘Indian Summer’ themed wedding

Why not spice up your wedding with the vibrant colours, tastes and sounds of the East? Be inspired by the glitz of Bollywood or go for a ‘Days of the Raj’ theme…

The write stuff

Choose from an amazing variety of invitation cards in fabulous colours, handmade paper with silk threads or go for a traditional scroll design tied up with beautiful gold tassels, just as in the days of the Maharajas.

Spiced up

There are a great variety of savoury snacks that could be served with drinks or as a starter course, followed by mild or spicy Indian cuisine. An exciting alternative to the standard fare served invariably at most weddings.

Big Top

If you’ve got a big garden or access to one, take advantage of the space by erecting an exotic Indian or Arabian style tent. There are a wide variety of tents and marquee linings in bright coloured schemes to choose from. Specialist hire companies offer exquisite traditional craftsmanship and innovative design in ethnic dining tables or low floor seating with colourful cushions and bolsters. Artfully placed lanterns and chandeliers add to the ambience and charm.

Garden Party

Let your guests sample the best of the English summer by having a true al fresco dining experience. There are several venues that offer garden areas with rich tropical planting and a specially erected outdoor tandoor oven, where sizzling platters are a special feature. The trees could be lit up romantically with hanging lamps.

Fancy ethnic favours

Sheer organza sachet bags in traditional Indian bridal colours (red, burgundy, hot pink, gold and silver), mirrored bags, cones, trinket boxes, mini turbans and handbags ‐ all work well with the eastern theme.

Royal car

Arrive in style at your wedding in one of the royal Ambassador cars specially imported from India and done up in fabulously ornate Bollywood styles.

Fragrant cocktails

Impress your guests with Indian inspired drinks like flavoured lassis (yoghurt based), spiced ice teas, nimbu paani (sweet and sour lime drink) and fruity cocktails in amazing colours. Other exotic ideas include a ginger and lime zinger and a chilli chocolate drink!

Wax miracle

Bring in a breath of the East with aromatic candles and incense. Sandalwood, jasmine, vetivert and rose are just some of the fragrances that evoke warmer and sweeter climes. Floating scented candles in large glass bowls with flower petals will add to the atmosphere.

Bollywood Beats

Recreate the sights and sounds of the world’s most prolific film industry by hiring a dance troupe to entertain your guests with the hottest dance numbers. The performances are vibrant with colourful costumes and energetic choreography ‐ all geared to add to the festive fun.

 

Live Bands

For something really different, hire an Indian style brass band consisting of more than 10 musicians playing saxophones, snare and bass drums, trumpets and trombones, in addition to traditional dhol drummers. The tunes can be traditional wedding songs as well as hits from Bollywood.