Brides & Beyond....

Trousseau Packing

2011-09-11T07:50:00.000-07:00

The bridal trousseau has deeply traditional roots, both sensible and sentimental ones. It is generally a collection of items like clothes, lingerie, linens, jewellery and other things that a bride may need after her marriage. Although this custom started as a more practical approach and was a way for brides to start their marriage self-sufficiently and not having to ask their in-laws for things, it’s now a fun tradition too.
Trousseau packing is special packaging for the gifts you give to near and dear ones around the wedding.
Since relatives and friends often want to see the trousseau or is many a time put on display, attractive trousseau packaging is a great touch. Not only is it fun to look at but gives you that sense of it being a super special gift to yourself! Whether you are putting together your own or packing a trousseau for your best friend, here are some fun ideas.
Let’s start with the main packaging you plan to use. If you are thinking of putting the trousseau articles in a big box or bag, why not think of interesting containers that you can use later in your home too. Something like a beautiful carved wooden chest or a lovely tiled mosaic box are special enough for your trousseau and yet can be a nice addition to your décor at home. Another popular option is the use of decorated thaals and trays especially for smaller items. You can decorate these with colourful cloth, metallic netting, lace, ribbons, velvet, satin and jewel embellishments. Including compartmentalized organizers and trays and even dividers in lovely colours not only looks good but also allows you to keep everything mess free and showcase all your lovely gifts and purchases.
Having a central theme is also a great touch. You could carry over the theme of your clothes and accessories if any or tie it up nicely with common touches. Having a theme for the way your gifts are presented, in terms of style and colours makes for one attractive trousseau! If you have a theme for your wedding and a colour palette that runs through all your events, it can incorporated in your trousseau packing as well. You can top off your packages with whimsical touches that show off your interests and personality like flamboyant feathers, some sparkly bling or even pressed flowers and leaves.
Last but not the least try and include a satchel of a fragrance you like or some pretty pot pourri in your packages; it keeps everything fresh and looks super pretty. Have fun with the trousseau packing since it is another special part of your big day and if you are packing one for someone you care about adding a small surprise gift or cute knick-knacks will definitely bring a smile to her face.
source - indian weddings marry me

Here some ideas to help you enhance your trousseau packing , HAVE FUN!!!!!!!!!!!

Bridal Trousseau

2011-09-11T06:48:00.000-07:00

The most special day in the life of a girl when she wants to look as beautiful as an angel. Parents of the bride dream of this day since the day of her birth. It is on this occasion when all eyes eagerly wait for her single glimpse. Bridal trousseau is one of the most important aspect for the bride to be that takes most of the time and effort. The perfect bridal trousseau has to comprise of everything that the bride will need, after her marriage, as a newly wed. This is because, in the initial days, she is usually shy and might feel awkward asking her husband or in-laws for something. Thus, her parents make sure that she has each and every item, be it of everyday use or just party use, with her. Lets explore the wedding troussea of an Indian bride.Hoping the following information will prove handy for all the new brides out there.

Nine out of 10 Indian girls are highly excited about their trousseau shopping. In fact, most girls consider the unlimited shopping bonanza that accompanies all Indian weddings, one of the biggest plus points of getting married. Indian wedding trousseau shopping includes everything that a bride-to-be assembles for the most important day of her life; and of course for the functions preceding and following the main day.
With Indian weddings stretching for as long as a week, the list of bridal trousseau has only extended over the years. The clothes, shoes, accessories, jewellery, make-up, etc. for each event is to be planned months in advance. For many brides in India, trousseau shopping may also include lots of extra things, such as western clothes, linens, accessories and any other essentials that she will need to take with her post marriage to her new home.
It’s easy to get stressed out and feel overwhelmed with the choices at hand. What’s in this season and what’s so very passé? What’s chic yet reasonable and what will burn a hole in your pocket? Custom-made or ready made? Phew!
The fashion weeks, couture carnivals and bridal exhibitions, which are held few months before the wedding season kick starts are a great way of knowing the latest trends of the season. Creations by famed and budding designers, latest accessories – shoes, handbags, jewellery, etc. will make your life a tad simpler. Even if you don’t feel like going the exorbitant way by spending truckloads on designer couture, you can always attend the exhibits and fashion shows to check out the various silhouettes, colour palettes and other embellishments.
While shopping for your Indian wedding trousseau, it is good to go ahead with a plan of action. Make a list of all your functions and what all you need. Also, set aside a budget in mind so that you don’t end up spending all the money on one or two outfits. Try to go for a different look for every function. So if you are planning to wear a saree for your mehendi, wear something different for your cocktail or sangeet. Unlike a mehndi function, a cocktail or a sangeet involves dancing, moving around and being on your toes. So choose your clothes and shoes accordingly.
Do not repeat colours; it just takes away from a beautiful and expensive outfit. Also, remember to go for subtle colours and pastel shades for daytime functions. Your bling elements will look way classier and not in-your-face in the evenings. With the help of an experienced wedding planner you can find out where to get the best deals for your shopping and trousseau packing.

Indian Wedding Trousseau

Jewelry

One of the most important parts of a bridal trousseau comprises of the jewelry. Traditionally, yellow gold jewelry, in the form of necklaces, earrings, chains, rings, bangles, anklets, toe rings, armlet and waistbands, was given to the bride. However, these days, people opt for white gold, platinum and diamond jewelry as well. Those who have a low budget prefer giving silver jewelry to their daughter.

First, the basics, your budget decides what metal you should go in for.
Gold and platinum are expensive and if you have a tight budget, you could go in for a few items in these metals. Silver and gold plated jewelery pieces are pocket friendly. Depending upon your budget, diamonds and precious stones could be included or given a miss. Imitation jewelery using colored stones resembling precious and semi precious stones such as ruby, opal, topaz and the good old diamond is fairly common these days. They look exquisite, however cost only a fraction of the real stuff. The cost benefit of these imitation jewelery means you could have lots of these, matching every outfit in your trousseau.
If you are on a tight budget, you could include a few pieces of jewelery made in expensive metals and stones and a few in plated metals using semi precious and artificial stones.

Evergreen jewlery trends

Some traditional trends such as the Maang Tikka and a complete head dress are back in fashion. You can choose to go either way with your head dress being heavily ornamented or delicately quaint.
Laying emphasis on the waist is the Kamar Patta. With most jewelers making ones in pure metals with great embellishments, this should be popular with most young brides.
The Armlet, one of the most popular pieces of jewellery since the yesteryears, can now be seen on most brides. Although most stick to gold, there are still others that come in contrasting colors depending on the color of the wedding dress.
The Payals and Pagpans are back! As are the traditional toe rings. With most jewellery makers paying much attention to detail these days, there’s no reason why the brides-to-be should be left behind.

must haves jewelery

Maang Tika

Worn in the middle of the hair parting and found in myriad styles, the tika as the jewelled adaptation of the quintessential bindi adds a unique charm to the face and serves as a symbolic reminder for the woman to walk the middle path! The piece changes its shape and size as it travels the expanse of the country. It is at times delicate but often large, covering up most of the forehead with precious gems set in a round pattern with pearls dangling at the bottom. Usually crafted with diamonds or polkis in the North and with rubies down south, it is wise not to opt for one with coloured gemstones as it limits its usage.

Mangalsutra

The quintessential marital symbol no bride can do without. The tiny black beads ward off the evil eye since the bride is the cynosure of all eyes. Originating after 6th century A.D. it started off as a simple thread considered sacred with three strands entwined together to represent the holy trinity. The South Indians add abundant variety to this ornament using intricate repousse on gold with diamonds and rubies. Meant to be worn 24x7, next to the skin, it maintains gentle pressure in the centre of the chest to regulate certain metabolic functions.Mangalsutra is the symbol of being married and is worn by Hindu ladies in the greater part of Western and southern India. Traditionally, this is a long thread( mostly yellow in color) with a gold pendant. This thread symbolizes the love and attachment with which the husband and wife will be tied to each other throughout their lives. There are quite a few variations of the mangalsutra available in the market today to suit the deep as well as not-so-deep pockets.

You could have a mangalsutra with black and yellow beads and a gold pendant;
You could even have a diamond pendant attached to a plain black thread or a beaded yellow and gold thread.
Sometimes, to make the mangalsutra a little more dressy, gold chain could also be interspersed between two chains of black and gold beads.

Earrings
The ear is identified as a microcosm of the entire body and when pierced in the centre of the lobe, it protects the person from various diseases. And herein lies the secret of wearing earrings. A study of symbology reveals that brides wore elaborate earrings as precautionary reminders not to fall prey to gossip in their new homes. While the choices are unparalleled, the most enthralling is the traditional 'Chaandbala.' The gem set half moon or crescent with a fish shaped pendant fringed with pearls, jhumkas, karnaphool, peepul patras from Punjab or even elaborate hoops look spectacular.

Vintage

Solemn vows exchanged, overwhelming emotions dealt with, it's now time to move on. As the bride readies to leave behind her home of many years, it is mandatory for her to carry one piece of vintage jewellery-belonging to her mother, grandmother, whoever. A piece that recounts memories and brings alive moments; a piece that she can cherish for years to come and pass on to the next generation. For, the big fat Indian wedding is not just about pomp and show but also about continuity and tradition.

Nath

Nath or nose ring is worn by brides of some regions of India. The nose ring could be a plain simple stud in gold/silver/diamond or colored stone. This could be put into the hole pierced in the nose and screwed to its position. A nose ring could be more elaborate as well, in the form of a decorative ring, which could be held in place by a long chain, having its loose end tucked into the hair, behind the ear.
If you do not have your nose pierced, no worries! Naths which could be pressed on to the nostril from either side are very common and look equally beautiful. The nath keeps reinventing itself , and you could have naths with beautiful filigree work or with stone and bead work.

Payals (anklets) and bichua ( toe rings)

Payals and bichua are jewelery meant to be worn on the feet. A payal is a chain which comes in a pair and is worn on both the ankles. These are mostly in silver and have a lot of traditional designs and delicate patterns. Some of them may also have small metallic bells which rub against each other to emit a melodious sound when the bride moves, lending her an aura of enigma. A single anklet in plated metals and threads having multi-color beads or bells or other such design features, are also worn by young, unmarried girls as a fashion statement.
Toe rings or bichua, like payals are worn in pairs and are adorned by most married women. These could come in silver too. They could be simple rings, or could have small studs of colored stones, or elaborate patterns such as a peacock etc. Traditionally, jewelery worn on the feet is not made in gold, however, newer trends do have lots of designs in gold.

Chudis and kadas/kangan

Chudis and kadas or Thin and thick Bangles/bracelets – are a symbol of Indian-ness worldwide and are worn by girls and married women alike.
The importance of bangles could be gauged from the fact that some communities even have an elaborate ceremony, where the bride is made to wear the bangles in specified colors by her relatives , before her marriage.
Bridal jewelery is mostly made in precious metals like gold and silver or plated gold, however, these are also commonly found in glass, wood, plastic, ivory etc. Bangles are mostly thin ,measuring about 1/8^th of an inch, whereas the kadas or bracelets are usually thicker, starting from a centimeter wide and going to be as wide as an inch or more.
Wedding bangles could be adorned with precious and semi precious stones. It is considered inauspicious for a married woman to let her hands be bare and without bangles. Traditionally, a married woman and a bride-to-be used to wear red glass bangles, however, things are changing and now a days, brides mostly wear bangles made of metal.

Other bridal jewelery

Apart from the above items which a bride must wear as per the traditions, there are many items which are bought by the family and which she is made to wear lovingly, on her special day.

Set

A set is a necklace with matching earrings and ring. Sets could be made in any of the metals listed above and are normally heavier than plain necklaces.

If there are no budget constraints, brides could be gifted gold and diamond sets.
Kundan work or precious stones and diamonds are set in gold with a gold foil in between to reflect the glory of the stones and polki (which is a version of kundan, however uses uncut diamonds set in gold) are also increasingly becoming popular with the rich clients.
For the budget conscious, sets with multi-layered chains of pearl look very glamorous.

Necklace

These could be independent pieces of jewelery to be worn at neck . Necklaces have a lot of significance in a wedding and sometimes these could be heirlooms passed on from one generation to the other. You could have different designs of necklaces.

Simple chains in different thickness and designs could be worn as it is or they could be teamed with unique pendants. Pendants could be floral in design or could even be miniature version of the deity that the bride believes in. You could have a silver chain, a gold chain or a plated chain. The pendant could be made of gold or silver or diamond / other precious stones.

Chokers are generally wide neck pieces that sit very close to the neck. They normally have an adjustable string which could be loosened or tightened. A multi-layer pearl choker with a semi precious stone set in between looks very chic and yet is not very expensive. Other chokers could be made of gold and silver. Chokers look best when the wearer has a long delicate neck.

Long chains – also known colloquially as ‘haar’ are heavy pieces of necklaces . These are usually long enough to reach the navel of the wearer and d be made in different metals and patterns.

Finger rings or ‘angoothi’ and haath phool

The engagement ring is worn in the ring finger of the left hand by the bride. The engagement ring could be a plain band made of metal or could have various motifs and patterns embossed / stones set in it. A bride may choose to wear rings on her other fingers as well. Rings could be made of plated metal, sometimes using artificial stones or could be made in gold and other precious metals using diamond and semi precious stones.
Very often , rings for all fingers on one hand, could be linked together with chains, making a web like structure called the haath phool, which the bride often wears. For centuries rings are associated with beautifying the hands of the bride and they are every jewelery makers’ delight!

Baaju band or Armlet

Baaju band or Armlet is worn a little above the elbow and is a fine piece of jewelery coming in various designs and shapes. In ancient India, this was worn by men as well. A bride may choose to wear this, however, this is more a fashion accessory than a must to be worn by a bride.

Kamarband

Perhaps the most seductive ornament in the Indian tradition and an absolute must-have for a bride even though it is almost redundant in modern day usage. It was earlier worn to hold the skirt of the sari securely and of course to accentuate the waist and the gait. The latter is the only reason to covet this ornament for the most momentous day; go for jadau or plain gold so it can convert later into a necklace. It is believed that since the navel is the seat of all emotions, the slight pressure of the belt maintained a balance and harmony of thoughts. For the bride, who is probably a bundle of nerves on her wedding day, it may just be a god send!

Sari
In terms of bridal clothes, saris surely top the list. The actual type of sari, like Bandhani, Banarasi, Brocade, Kanjeevaram, Kota Silk, Mysore Silk or Paithani, will depend upon the region to which the bride belongs. However, one thing is for sure, the saris will have heavy work done on them, in the form of thread embroidery, zari work, zardozi work, etc, and will be in bright colors.
A bride should have a combination of heavy, ligh,formal semiformal, traditional, cocktail, designer collection of sarees in her trousseau.

There are unlimited choices of bridal sarees in terms of designs. For example, the sarees with heavy or light embroidery make the wonderful choices as wedding attires. Another popular deign is the golden zari work done on the wedding sarees by skilled craftsmen. Some of the other design choices include organza work, kasab work, mirror work, silver aari work, tikki work, sequins work and many more. There are unlimited choices of bridal sarees in terms of designs. For example, the sarees with heavy or light embroidery make the wonderful choices as wedding attires. Another popular deign is the golden zari work done on the wedding sarees by skilled craftsmen. Some of the other design choices include organza work, kasab work, mirror work, silver aari work, tikki work, sequins work and many more.
Brides towards South of India prefer silks, in North India they prefer sequin embroidery on chiffons or crepes, East Indian brides have a preference of hand woven sari & brides in West India carry off both silks & chiffons with equal grace and love bandhni in design.

Every bride should have at least 3 sarees in her trousseau depending on her choice. One silk saree is a must since it can be worn on any formal family functions & pooja. Honestly I consider Silk sarees to have a timeless grace. In Indian households a Silk saree is passed on from generations to generations. Sarees lend an air of elegance and gracefulness to a woman. Nevertheless it’s important to select one that compliments your body features. Thin women should stick to fluffy fabric like organza, cotton and tussar sarees. Women who are a bit heavier should buy light fabrics like silk, chiffon and georgette. It is advisable to avoid large prints as it is too flashy and gives the impression of a huge look. Shorter women should avoid large borders

Personal advice - ethnic traditional, vintage sarees are evergreen , they never go out of fashion.

‘Must-have’ Trousseau Saree Blouses

Many tailors and family friends have recommended having a few essential blouses for the bridal trousseau:
1) Shimmer Blouses - These are shiny and/or sequenced gold and silver blouses that can easily match any saree with gold and silver zari/embroidery/sequencing, respectively. Many Bollywood Belles have been using shimmer blouses in their wardrobes.
Take a look:



Photo credit: Exclusively.In
2) Brocade Blouse: Brocade is a class of richly decorative shuttle-woven fabrics often made in colored silks and with or without gold and silver threads. These patterns look elegant with almost any fabric saree and are important to have in your trousseau!


Photo credit: Exclusively.In
3) Patchwork/Fabric Striped Blouse - A colorful patchwork blouse that consists of combination of colorful patterns/brocade fabrics. These multicolor blouses can usually make any solid colored saree or single color bandhini saree more unique. Here’s an example of a blouse featured on Exclusively.In, but unfortunately, it’s not for sale!

Salwar Kameez
In some of the regions of India, especially in the north, salwar kameez also forms a part of the bridal trousseau. Just like saris, they also have heavy work done on them, which might include gold/silver thread embroidery, zari work, zardozi work or the use of sequins, crystals, lace, etc. The suits will be in bright colors and even the dupatta/chunni will be adorned with work.

A salwar kameez consists of a Kurti called as Kameez & salwar is loose pajama like trouser. You can purchase these ready to wear or get them stitched as per your accordance. These are available throughout India in numerous materials, colours & designs. A bride should have at least 5 Salwar Kameez in different lengths & designs in order to suit different occasions. Patiala Salwar and Chudidars with Short kurti are the recent trend. Combine Salwar Kameez with Starppy sandals or for more ethnic look with mojris or Punjabi juthi. Salwar kameez have been a symbol of comfortable Indian wear which anyone can easily adapt to. As a bride get embroidered work done on the kurti like Zardosi, Gotta work, mirror work, embroidery with sequins, etc. Matching embroidery work on the salwar is quite a rage in India. Don’t forget he dupatta along with it.

A perfect trousseau is always an amalgum of heavy as well as casual pieces of clothing and accessories.

Shoes
An Indian bride, as a part of her trousseau, will also be carrying lots of shoes and sandals with her. Apart from sandals in the usual colors, like white, black, cream, brown, silver and golden, the ones particularly matching her saris or salwar kameez will also be included. In fact, some of the brides carry a separate suitcase, which consists of just their shoes.Bridal shoes generally match the outfit the bride wears. You can ask your trousseau designer or the retail store from where you are buying your wedding dress to co-ordinate and design the shoes as well.       The advent of light colored shoes is conspicuous because they can be re-colored to any other darker shade later and worn for any other festive occasions after marriage.
The bridal shoes should be comfortable. The various pre and post-wedding ceremonies require the bride to walk around and stand for long hours to meet people. Bridal shoes with a smaller hell are the most comfortable. There is a wide variety of Bridal Shoes like wedding pumps, high heeled sling backs, flats, sandals and pointed toe shoes. Bridal shoes vary in size and height and depending on ones need, one can choose from a wide variety of shoes that are available in the market. But you cannot always walk around wearing heels. Add on everyday wear shoes or flats. In India you will find beautiful traditional flat shoes like mojris or Punjabi jutti which look great with Salwar Kameez, denims, etc. Else you can buy simple flat sandals as shown on the left. The key here again is to buy shoes in different colours instead of sticking to the basic black ones. A person with beautiful shoes has conquered half the required look. You can never go wrong in your looks if you have stunning footwear. Beautiful footwear are itself a fashion statement. Make sure you have pedicured feet to show off in your shoes.

Handbags
One of the most important accessories for a woman, handbags form a part of the Indian bridal trousseau as well. Their number as well as quality will depend upon the budget of the bride's parents. While some of them give bags in the universal color, like white, black, brown, silver and golden, other might buy a separate bag for each of the outfits in the trousseau.This just might be an accessory but it is an important one since the kind of bag you carry can make or break your entire look. Bridal bags should be small and matching with the bridal outfit. For the other outfit the key for a perfect bag is to match with not only the outfit but with your shoes and belts as well. Have at least 2 bags, one for party wear which a bridal bag can also be used as one and the other for everyday wear which you can carry to office, shopping or just an outdoor meeting. Colours common preferred are reds, pinks and golden for bridal bags and browns and black for Everyday Wear bag

Cosmetics
Cosmetics form yet another important part of the bridal trousseau in India, just like other countries of the world. The cosmetic kit will comprise of the usual items, like moisturizers, lipsticks, nail paints, eye-shadows, mascara, eye-liners, lip-pencils, blush-on, foundation,perfumes, creams, and so on. Along with that, in many of the cases, there will be yet another important item - bindi.

Linen
It is believed that a bride will have to set up her new home, after getting married. This is why; linen has always formed a part of the Indian bridal trousseau. It will include items like bed sheets, bed covers, blankets, quilts, curtains, table covers, mats, pillow covers, etc. Apart from that, bath linen (towels) will also form a part of the trousseau.

Other Items
Amongst the other items that are included in an Indian wedding trousseau include toiletries (soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc), night wear, lingerie, watch,western clthes, denims, skirts, tops,honeymoon wear etc. The basic idea behind including all these items is to make sure that the bride does not have to ask anybody in her new home, for something, at least in the initial days after her marriage.

Nightwear

If you are planning to have a sexy strappy or backless night gown which will make your guy go weak in the knees, well that should not be a problem unless it is within the four walls of your bedroom. Have an alternative Nightwear gown that is decent enough for you to wear in front of your in-laws. To be on a safer side have at least 2 pair of nightwear. Colours can range from pinks, reds, peach to blue, purple, greens. Bridal Nightwear are easily available across all major stores in India. Pick according to your body type, is comfortable and yet looks elegant. Avoid following fashion over comfort.

Lingerie & Everyday Inner wear

Buy sexy lingerie but don’t buy them only. Make it a point to buy everyday wear undergarments as well. Choose colours like red, pinks, purples, etc anything that would look good on your skin shade. Avoid buying whites only, experiment with some colour. Have the bra and panties co-ordinated in the same colour/pattern. Go in for lingerie which has a bit of sequin detail but not too much as you might end up look like a belly dancer. Lingerie translates to sensuousness and will bring out the best in you. If you feel good and confident within it is bound to show in your body language too.

Brides & Beyond....: Brides & Beyond....: Saree Vs Lehenga

2011-07-12T11:25:00.000-07:00

Brides & Beyond....: Brides & Beyond....: Saree Vs Lehenga: "Brides & Beyond....: Saree Vs Lehenga : ' Whether it be the bride or the bridesmaid...'"

Brides & Beyond....: Mehendi

2011-07-12T11:16:00.000-07:00

Brides & Beyond....: Mehendi: "Mehndi is an integral part of any Indian wedding. Mehndi isn't just a beautifying ornament for the bride but it is a ritual of significant v..."

Mehendi

2011-07-12T11:09:00.000-07:00

Mehndi is an integral part of any Indian wedding. Mehndi isn't just a beautifying ornament for the bride but it is a ritual of significant values.Mehndi is a pre wedding ritual, it takes place before one or two days before the wedding.
The bride's family mainly celebrates this fun filled ritual. Different regions of the country celebrate the ritual in a different way according to their own marriage customs, rituals, and culture. Celebrated according to their own customs and status of the people. The bride's family celebrates Mehendi party for gathering bride’s friends and relatives for blessing the bride as well as for amusement.
Professional mehendi artists are called to apply mehndi to the bride or even relatives may apply .
There are few places in India where it is a ritual that the first motif of henna or mehendi is applied by the bride’s sister-in-law whereas there are some places where the first mehendi motif is said to be auspicious if applied by bride’s mother.
Mehandi is one of the sixteen adornments of the bride and her beauty is incomplete without it.
The Mehendi signifies the transformation of the bride from a virgin girl to a temptress for her husband. As per Kama Sutra, henna is one of the sixty four arts of women. Conchshell, flowers, Kalash, peacock, doli and baraat patterns, koyri are the favorite motifs for bridal mehndi. The intricate motifs of the bridal henna also hide the husband’s name. It is said that the husband’s name in the intricate henna motifs is made for the groom who has to find out his name in his bride’s mehendi on the wedding night.

Mehendi function is usually organized with the sangeet function. So, it has a festive feel to it with the women dancing and singing traditional songs on the mehendi ritual. The bride is dressed in light color clothes with light jewelry so as to facilitate her to move around , dance and enjoy. According to the custom the bride must not step out of the house after the mehendi ritual until the wedding day. It is believed that the darker and deeper the henna stains the more the husband and the in-laws will love her bride. The ritual of mehendi signifies the strength and power of love in a marriage so it is regarded good omen for the would-be bride. It is said that the long the bride retains the mehendi, the more auspicious would be her future

Mehndi designs now a days include Arabic Mehndi, Rajasthani Mehndi, Crystal Mehndi, Tattoo Mehndi, etc.

The Mehndi should be a relaxing evening. Here's how to keep it stress-free:

Try to have all the wedding preparations complete for the next day. That way, everyone will be able to focus on each other and enjoy the festivities.
Those who are getting mehndi (especially the bride) should wear clothing that is easy to remove without ruining the designs.
Choose some designs ahead of time and show them to the person who is applying your mehndi. Select a design that suits your taste! Make it as simple or heavy as you desire and match it to the cut of your outfits. For example, if your blouse has a deep back, apply a motif on your upper back.
In addition to your hands and feet, mehndi may be applied on your arms, back or wrists, stomach. Be creative!
Mehendi stages

mehendi designs

mehendi songs for the function

1 ) Mehndi Laga Ke Rakhna - Dilwale Dulhaniya Ley Jayengay
2 ) Mehndi Wali Raat - Qila
3 ) Mehndi Ki Raat Aai - Model
4 ) Mehndi Ni Mehndi - Deewana Mujh Sa Nahin
5 ) Saajan Saajan - Aarzoo
6 ) Bhumbro Bhumbro - Mission Kashmir
7 ) Mehndi Hai Rachney Wali - Zubeida
8 ) Likh Key Mehndi Se Sajna Ka Naam - Ishq Hua
9 ) Mehndi Lagao Gi Mein - Mehndi
10 ) Mehndi Mehndi - Chori Chori Chupke Chupke

some other songs u might like

Maa da Ladla (Dostana) A nice one to tease your soon to be
Zoor Ka Jatka (Action Replay)- Last chance to make the person see light about getting married.
Bhootni Ke (Singh is King) and other song to tease the couple about getting married.
Ek Kunwara Phir Gaya Maara (Masti)
Rookmani Rookmani (Rosa)
Main Joru Ka Ghulam (Joru Ka Ghulam)
Aayee Mehndi Ki Yeh Raat – Jawad Ahmed
Dulhan Koi Jab Jab – Shaadi Ke Geet
Haathon Ki Mehndi Ke Rang Ne – Wedding Gift 6 – Mehndi Kay Geet
Hai Ve Mere Hathan Di Mehndi – Malkit Singh
Hari Hari Mehndi – Wedding Gift 6 – Mehndi Kay Geet
Likh Ke Mehndi Se Sajna Ka Naam – Wedding Gift 6 – Mehndi Kay Geet
Mehndi – Rahim Shah
Mehndi Haathon Mein – Falguni Pathak – Marjhani Jhanjhar
Mehndi Ki Raat – Models
Mehndi & Mehndi (Shaadi Mix) – Haroon – Lagan
Mehndi Lagane Ki Raat – Wedding Gift 6 – Mehndi Kay Geet
Mehndi Lagaongi Main – Vibha Sharma
Mehndi Mehndi Mehndi – Harbhajan Maan – Jhanjhar Di Chhankar
Mehndi Ni Mehndi – Musrat Nazir
Mehndi Rachegi Tere Haath Dholka Bajegi Saari Raat – Hadiqa
Mehndi Rang Laayee – Wedding Gift 6 – Mehndi Kay Geet
Mehndi Se Likh Gori – Wedding Gift 2 – Mehndi Kay Geet
Mehndi Ta Sajdi – Musrat Nazir
Mehendi Tere Haathon Mein – Wedding Gift 6 – Mehndi Kay Geet
Mehndi Wale Raat – Wedding Gift 2 – Mehndi Kay Geet
Mehndi Waali Raat – Chat Mangni Pat Shaadi
Sajje Gi Meri Mehndi – Wedding Gift 6 – Mehndi Kay Geet…
Sajna Ki Mehndi Bade Kaam Ki – Wedding Gift 6 – Mehndi Kay Geet

Brides & Beyond....: Saree Vs Lehenga

2011-07-11T13:08:00.000-07:00

Brides & Beyond....: Saree Vs Lehenga: " Whether it be the bride or the bridesmaid..."

Saree Vs Lehenga

2011-07-11T13:03:00.000-07:00

Whether it be the bride or the bridesmaid the most imporant question always remain the same -
"what to wear a saree or a lehenga?"

Saree vs Lehenga

five-and-a-half meters long unstitched desire that can

be draped in many different ways, the world’s most versatile garment - saree

effortlessly fitting from formal to casual, sexy revealing to traditional sensuality.

worn with a completely covered, matching but plain petticoat. Because the sari cloth is not stitched anywhere, the sari wearer requires a set of sturdy safety pins to attach the sari to the petticoat in the waist and the pallu (the loose end) to the blouse at one shoulder. One can use more pins but tiny holes might remain in certain materials or the cloth may even tear if pulled hard by accident.

Pros

timeless
classic
versatile
various materials available
dignified yet sexy

LEHENGA

A three piece combination of choli, long skirt(lehenga) and scarf (dupatta).Is called the lehenga choli.Like the saree blouse, the choli also comes in many cuts, colors and styles. But because the choli is more exposed than the saree blouse, it needs to match the lehenga and is therefore usually as richly embroidered.
Women wear lehengas at parties and festive occasions, not in the office or at a formal event; those would call for a sari or a festive salwar kameez. Lehengas are ideal if greater movement or the security of a prestitched garment is desired – at a dance party, for example – though many an Indian bride has proven how gracefully one can dance in a sari.

Pros

sensual

practical because prestitched

silhouette enhancing

various styles available

The final decision for or against lehenga or sari is, of course, an individual one. It will depend on the preference of the wearer and which piece of clothing she is more comfortable with in a certain social situation. In either case, it will be a good choice as both garments are classy parts of the Indian wardrobe.

Brides & Beyond....: Dadi Ma Ke Nuskhe

2011-07-11T04:52:00.000-07:00

Brides & Beyond....: Dadi Ma Ke Nuskhe: "for soft and glowing skin, apply pomegranate juice daily on ur face . Take two tablespoons each of brown sugar and oatmeal and mix them wit..."

Dadi Ma Ke Nuskhe

2011-07-11T04:43:00.000-07:00

for soft and glowing skin, apply pomegranate juice daily on ur face .
Take two tablespoons each of brown sugar and oatmeal and mix them with a quarter cup of milk.- face scrub- once a week.
one tablespoon each of cucumber juice, lemon juice, tomato juice, and sandalwood paste.-skin lightening mask - once a week .
Regular application of a homemade mask will give you a naturally glowing skin within 4 weeks.
one beaten egg yolk and a teaspoon of oilve oil. Let stand 15 minutes and rinse - face mask
Rub cucumber slices on your face.- natural bleach
To lighten marks-Rub a lemon on the spot for ten minutes. Rinse with warm water. The mark will soon fade away.
For puffy eyes- Put cool slices of cucumber on your eyes. Or soak two tea bags and place in freezer for a few minutes. Put them on your eyes and relax.
for face masks- strawberries, peaches and pinapple crushed as is or mixed with fresh cream
Grated carrot heals facial inflamations and sunburn. The grated cabbage mask also posseses powerful healing properties.
Masks made of raw grated potato hydrate and reduce wrinkles.
Masks made of crushed beets and cream revitalize
masks of hot cooked spinach and milk deep clean the skin.
Wash a big, ripe tomato and liquefy the whole thing in the blender. Pat on, let dry for 20 minutes, splash off with cool water.- for oily skin - face mask
Mix equal quantities of cucumber juice, rose water and lime juice. Wash the face and apply it overnight. Rinse off in the morning. This clears the complexion and keeps it healthy.
Mix equal quantities of lime juice, glycerin and rose water. This lotion if applied to the face regularly at bed time is very useful in removing pimples, blackheads and other stains of the skin. It makes the skin soft, and can also be applied to other parts of the body (hands, feet etc.)
Apply orange juice to the face for smooth and soft skin.
Take 50 ml. of tomato juice and mix with one teaspoon of lemon juice. Apply this mixture to the face. It helps to make the skin soft and glowing.
In order to diminish dark circles under the eyes, try this potato trick. Take a raw potato, wash it well and peel it off. Cut two slices of raw potato and place them under your eyes. It is helpful to reduce dark circles and should help also to reduce the puffiness.
Eat foods that are rich in vit C, vit E and beta carotene. They are great to improve your skin condition from inside. They will also improve general health of your eyes. Some examples of rich-vitamin foods:
- vitamin C: black berries, strawberries, oranges, lemon, potatoes, green veggies
- vitamin E: olive oil, fresh corn, eggs, nuts
- Beta-carotene: carrots, apricots, pumpkin
Tip for softer body skin: add a bit of sugar (which is an excellent scrub material) to your bathing soap and rub it all over your body. Sugar massage will improve blood circulation and it helps in removing the dead cells. You can add ground coffee to have even better results.
apply papayajuice or mashed papaya for skin pigmentation.
face mask- tulsi leaves and water paste- all skin types
for wrinkle free skin massage the face with ghee/almond oil/ coconut oil
face mask- mashed banana and milk
apply castor oil around eyes to remove puffiness.
Putting a drop of rose water into each eye just before you sleep can also refresh you eyes.
2 tsp turmeric powder, half-cup gram flour, 2 tsp sandal wood powder, 2 tsp almond oil.
Use above with a little water to make a smooth paste. The paste could be applied on the face as well as whole body. Leave it for 5-10 minutes before washing it off. It works as a natural bleach.
Apply juice of pudina (fresh mint) on face or paste of nutmeg (Jaiphal) to cure pimples
Pimples will disappear without scar when rubbed with Raw Garlic several times a day.
Apply pulp of Aloe vera mixed with turmeric powder on face to improve complexion.
Mix Aloe vera gel, paste of marigold flowers, lemon juice, orange juice and massage on face for a few minutes and leave on for half an hour for a glowing face.

Brides & Beyond....: Health and Beauty

2011-07-11T03:39:00.000-07:00

Brides & Beyond....: Health and Beauty: "Every girl wants to look her best on her wedding day. She dreams of looking like a princess with all eyes just on her.Some want to get that ..."

Brides & Beyond....: Health and Beauty

2011-07-11T02:49:00.000-07:00

Brides & Beyond....: Health and Beauty: "Every girl wants to look her best on her wedding day. She dreams of looking like a princess with all eyes just on her.Some want to get that ..."

Brides & Beyond....: bridal fashion

2011-07-11T02:16:00.000-07:00

Brides & Beyond....: bridal fashion: "Different saree drapes. Saree can be worn in so many different and innovative ways. The best way to determine the style that suits you mos..."

Brides & Beyond....: wedding planning

2011-07-11T02:15:00.000-07:00

Brides & Beyond....: wedding planning: "Wedding planning is the most crucial and most important part for making a wedding a success. Lot of research, effort, thought goes in planni..."

Brides & Beyond....: Bridal emergency kit.

2011-07-11T02:13:00.000-07:00

Brides & Beyond....: Bridal emergency kit.: "To avoid any unwanted event or mishap, a bride should always have an emergency kit handy at all times.It should be entrusted to the bri..."

Bridal emergency kit.

2011-07-10T09:52:00.000-07:00

To avoid any unwanted event or mishap, a bride should always have an emergency kit handy at all times.It should be entrusted to the bridesmaid or your best friend in order to save your day in case of unforeseen circumstaces.

sewing kit
double sided tape
safety pins
clips
lipstick
compact powder
perfume
nail polish
mouth freshner
compact mirror
tissues
hand sanitiser
scissor/tweezers
straws
cell phone
extra earring backs
wedding agenda
numbers of all service providers
band aid
hair spray
comb/brush
nuts, snack food,granola bars
water bottle
tooth pick
tampons
non drowsy allergy medicine
pain killers- nice, aspirin
wallet
extra contact lenses

keep extra pair of shoes handy.

wedding planning

2011-07-10T05:33:00.001-07:00

Wedding planning is the most crucial and most important part for making a wedding a success. Lot of research, effort, thought goes in planning a wedding.It is an overwhelming but at the same time very beautiful process. One needs to stay calm and plan out every detail organising the same strategically. Wedding planning starts normally 7-8 months before the wedding.It is best to maintain your wedding diary.Buy a wedding planner, make notes, keep receipts, important numbers, vendors, to-do lists, daily records. Make your wedding planner your best pal.If you are considering to hire a wedding coordinator start evaluating the same based on your needs, and who fits the part best.

Fix up a wedding date and start maintaining a schedule once it is fixed.

Plan your budget.
Decide what kind of a wedding you want to have.
Chose a venue based on the number of guests you want to have.
Start market research.
decide the budget fr the honeymoon and start shortlisting the honeymoon destinations.
Make a guest list.

7-6 months before the wedding.

Purchase a wedding planner and start keeping records.
book suitable service providers that fit your requirements.(photographer, florist/decorator, videographer, caterer, make up artist, performers/entertainers.
Based on the market survey start your jewellery and trousseau shopping.
Check your important documents- passports, visa, medicals.
Start a balanced diet, fitness and beauty regime.

5-4 months before the wedding.

Make a final guest list.
confirm all the service providers and plans.
Make honeymoon and travel reservations.
Hotel reservations or out of town guests.
Order wedding stationery and gifts for friends and relatives.
make up trial
Make a list of photographs you wish to be taken and music you wish to be played.
trousseau packing
Finalise the menu
Make a doctor's appointment if necessary.

3-2 weeks before the wedding

Final confirmations of all reservations and plannings.
Final fitting for the attire.
Final guest count to the caterer.
pack for your honeymoon.
visit a spa for your pre bridal regime.
Relax and rest , calm your nerves.