What should be on your desi wedding checklist?

Desi weddings are more than just ceremonies. They’re a celebration of love, tradition, and togetherness. But behind every seamless shaadi is a thoughtfully crafted checklist. Whether you’re the bride, the groom, or a family member making sure everything goes off without a hitch, having a proper wedding checklist ensures that nothing is missed, and that you can actually enjoy the magic as it unfolds.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the ultimate desi wedding checklist, from pre-wedding functions to the main event, including what to wear at each occasion. Whether you're preparing for a Pakistani wedding or an Indian wedding, this list is designed to help you stay confident, beautiful, and empowered throughout the journey.

1. Start with the heart – setting the date and budget

Before diving into the glitz, glamour, and gowns, lock in your wedding date. Consider family schedules, the season, and any auspicious dates if you follow religious calendars.
Once the date is set, outline your budget. Whether you're going big and bold or elegant and intimate, knowing your budget will guide all your other choices, from venue to bridal lehenga.

2. Lock the location – venues for every celebration

Desi weddings usually involve multiple events, and each may need a different setting. Think about:
• Home or hotel for the mayoun or haldi
• Outdoor garden or banquet hall for the mehndi
• Elegant ballroom or heritage venue for the shaadi
• Chic venue or destination resort for the walima
Make sure the venues can accommodate your guest list, and check for things like stage space, changing rooms, lighting, and decor flexibility.

3. Wardrobe wonders – what to wear for each event

Fashion is at the heart of desi weddings. Here's a simple breakdown of what the bride, groom, and guests can wear:

Mayoun/Haldi

Brides often wear yellow or orange shalwar kameez, or something floral and fresh. Keep it minimal yet radiant. Grooms can go for a simple kurta pajama or cotton waistcoat.
Guests: Casual festive wear.

Mehndi

Think colors—green, mustard, pinks, and bright shades. Brides usually wear lehenga cholis or shararas with mirror work or gota detailing. Grooms can rock vibrant kurtas with shawls or embroidered vests.
Guests: Playful, colorful outfits and traditional jewelry.

Shaadi/Nikkah

This is your red carpet moment. Brides often wear red, maroon, or gold bridal lehengas or pishwas. Heavy embroidery, dupattas, and regal jewelry complete the look. Grooms opt for sherwanis with turbans or a prince coat.
Guests: Formal eastern wear or sophisticated fusion fashion.

Walima/Reception

Pastel gowns, silver sarees, or ivory lehengas for brides. Grooms go for suits, tuxedos, or light-toned sherwanis.
Guests: Glamorous but graceful outfits in softer tones.

4. The guest list – blending love and logistics

Create your guest list early. Segment it into:
• Family (close and extended)
• Friends (school, college, work)
• Family friends and community elders
Use digital tools to manage RSVPs. If you're having a destination wedding or out-of-town guests, plan accommodations in advance.
Pro tip: Create a WhatsApp group for close family to streamline planning and updates.

5. The beauty blueprint – hair, makeup, and skincare

Book your makeup artists well in advance. Have trial sessions to figure out what works for your features and style. For brides, glowing skin is the real foundation—so invest in skincare 3-6 months before.
For grooms too, clean grooming, facials, and basic skincare matter.

Include in your checklist:

• Facial schedule
• Waxing/threading appointments
• Hair color/treatment
• Nail and spa sessions
• Makeup trial sessions
• Henna artist bookings

6. Picture perfect – photographers and videographers

Your wedding memories will live forever in photos and films. Choose a team that aligns with your aesthetic documentary style, traditional posed photos, or cinematic wedding films.
Don’t forget to create a shot list for must-have moments:
• Getting ready
• Bridal entry
• Candid family emotions
• Couple portraits
And yes, don’t overlook the power of a beautiful bridal photoshoot.

7. Music and mood – setting the vibe

From mehndi dances to shaadi entrances, music is the heartbeat of your desi wedding.
Checklist must-haves:
• DJ or live band
• Playlist for each event
• Dhol player or traditional musicians
• Speakers and sound system
• Rehearsals for dance performances

8. Food is love – the catering checklist

Desi weddings are remembered for their food. Choose a caterer who can provide a balance of taste and presentation.
Include:
• Starters/snacks
• Signature desi dishes like biryani, karahi, haleem, or nihari
• Vegetarian and allergy-friendly options
• Sweets and desserts like gulab jamun, kheer, rasmalai
• Drinks and mocktail stations
Arrange tasting sessions and finalize your menu early.

9. The details that matter – décor and design

Create a mood board that reflects your theme. Whether it’s mughal royalty, minimalist elegance, tropical mehndi, or floral fantasy, your décor should feel personal and poetic.
Don’t forget:
• Lighting and florals
• Stage and seating layout
• Entrance décor
• Table setup and centerpieces
• Name cards and signage

10. Emergency kit – the unsung hero

A tiny pouch that can save the day! Include:
• Safety pins and hair pins
• Fashion tape
• Blotting paper and mini perfume
• Stain remover pen
• Painkillers or basic meds
• Extra phone charger
• Band-aids (new shoes = blisters!)

11. Your tribe – coordinating bridesmaids and family

Assign roles to bridesmaids, cousins, siblings, and friends. Let someone manage vendor calls, someone else handle gifts, and someone to check in on your mood. Having a support system makes the entire experience easier and more joyful.

12. The final step – breathe it all in

Take a moment before the chaos begins. Reflect on the love, the laughter, and the long nights of planning. This is your time, own it with grace.
You’re not just checking off boxes; you’re writing the first chapter of a beautiful new journey.

Closing words

Planning a desi wedding can feel overwhelming, but with a calm mind and a clear checklist, it becomes a joyful experience. Remember: it’s not about perfection—it’s about celebration, connection, and stepping into your new life surrounded by love.
From the first mayoun to the last walima wave goodbye, let every moment feel like poetry in motion.