Tips for Attending an Indian Wedding in London

If you’ve been invited to an Indian wedding in London—first of all, congratulations! You’re in for a whirlwind of colour, culture, emotion and seriously good food. Indian weddings are nothing short of a grand celebration, and for someone attending for the first time, it might feel both exciting and a little overwhelming. 

This guide will walk you through exactly what to expect when attending an Indian wedding—from what to wear to how to navigate the rituals, and yes, how the food might just steal the entire show.  

What to Expect at an Indian Wedding in London 

Indian weddings are not usually one-day affairs. Expect multiple events spread over two to five days, each with its own vibe, meaning and dress code. Common ceremonies include: 

• Mehndi Night – a relaxed evening filled with music, dance, and henna for the ladies.

• Sangeet – the big party before the wedding with music and dancing, often featuring traditional Gujarati garba dances.

• Wedding Day – the grand occasion, filled with time-honoured customs and vibrant rituals.

• Reception – the formal celebration with speeches, dancing and an incredible dinner. 

In London, many Indian families blend tradition with modern touches, making the weddings feel like a cultural fusion, rooted in heritage but elevated with contemporary elegance. 

What to Wear to an Indian Wedding in London? 

Need some Indian wedding guest outfit ideas? And wondering what’s fabulous to wear? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Here are some Indian wedding guest dress ideas: 

For Women: 

• Sarees, lehenga cholis, or salwar kameez are popular choices.

• Choose rich colours – think jewel tones, golds, reds, or bright pinks.

• You can blend tradition with modern style—like crop tops with ethnic skirts or chic saree drapes. 

For Men: 

• A kurta-pyjama, sherwani, or a tailored bandhgala suit also makes a great choice.

• If you don’t own traditional attire, a formal suit in a festive colour is perfectly fine. 

• You can also opt for a fusion look—like pairing a waistcoat with a kurta or mixing traditional prints with modern cuts. 

Some couples include dress codes on their invitations, especially for specific events—so it’s always good to check in advance. 

Indian Wedding Etiquette – How to Attend an Indian Wedding Gracefully 

If you’re wondering how to attend an Indian wedding, start with this: be respectful, but don’t be shy. 

• Join the fun – Dancing, clapping during ceremonies, and participating in the group photos are all welcome.

• Respect the rituals – If you’re unfamiliar with the religious elements, observe quietly and follow others’ lead.

• Gifting – Cash in an envelope is the most common gift, often given at the reception. 

A Quick Look at Asian Wedding Services in London 

Indian weddings require serious planning, and that’s where Asian wedding services in London shine. From décor and sound to event management and caterers, families usually work with trusted suppliers to pull off the magic. 

One of the most crucial parts of this planning? The food. 

Why Food Is the Heart of Any Indian Wedding 

The food is a major highlight of any Indian celebration. From the moment guests arrive, they’re greeted with flavour-packed Gujarati snacks (known as farsan). And the main feast? That’s where the magic happens. 

• Multiple cuisines on one plate – offering a rich variety of flavours, textures, and aromas that cater to every palate.

• Vegetarian doesn’t mean boring – Think creamy paneer curries, crisp samosas, flavourful biryanis, and decadent Indian sweets like shrikhand and mohanthal.

• Catering is an art form, not just a service – with presentation, aroma, and taste designed to impress. 

Bharat Gangaram – Gujarati Wedding Catering at Its Finest 

At Bharat Gangaram, as Indian wedding caterers in London, we don’t just serve food—we tell stories through flavour. With over 50 years of heritage, our team specialises in Gujarati and vegetarian catering for weddings across London and beyond. Whether you’re planning your own wedding or attending an Indian wedding and want to recommend the best, our menus are crafted to wow every guest—traditional or not. 

Celebrate with Flavour – Let Bharat Gangaram Cater Your Big Day 

We understand what makes an Indian wedding truly unforgettable. From traditional Gujarati farsan to lavish buffets, every dish is made with love, precision, and unmatched experience. 

Ready to turn your big day into a feast to remember? Get in touch with us today to learn more about our menus. Because when it comes to Indian weddings, great food isn’t optional—it’s everything.