If you have always wanted a destination wedding all your life, try these 10 amazing hot spots that are perfect for a spring-summer wedding.

1. Ireland

Image: An Indian wedding at the Kilronan Castle via Upendo Photography

Visa- Apply for a tourist visa for Ireland with these steps.

Travel time- Approx 16 hours with a stopover from Mumbai.

Stunning settings- Visit our sister company for stunning summer wedding venues in Ireland.

Local Planners- Try our sister site again.

2. Mussoorie

Visa- None

Travel Time- From Delhi, an hour’s flight to Dehradhun followed by a 2-hour drive.

Stunning Settings-The JW Marriott Walnut Grove Resort & Spa.

Local Planners-Panchi Events

3. Florence, Italy

Visa – To apply for Schengen tourist visa to Italy, use the steps given here.

Travel time- 12 hours approx.

Stunning Settings- Try a rooftop wedding or an indoor ceremony in the grand frescoed ballroom at the Four Seasons.

Local planner- Wedding Italy.

4. Istanbul, Turkey

Visa- Follow the steps here for applying for a visa to Turkey.

Travel time- Approx 6 hours from Mumbai.

Stunning Settings- Ciragan Palace, Kempinski.

Local planner-Turkey Chalo Wedding Planners

5. Bali, Indonesia

Visa- On arrival for 30 days.

Travel time-Approx 10 hours from Mumbai.

Stunning Settings-Choose from these 10 best wedding venues in Bali.

Local Planner-Bali Grace

6. Seychelles

Visa- No visa needed for a visit up to 30 days.

Travel Time- Approx 5 hours from Mumbai to Mahe.

Stunning Settings-Get a quotation here to choose a stunning wedding venue in Seychelles.

Local Planners- Wed-In-Seychelles

7. Jaipur, Rajasthan

Image: Chokhi Dhani, Jaipur

Visa- None

Travel Time – Approx 2 hours by flight.

Stunning Settings- Chokhi Dhani Resort is one, else find other top wedding venues in Jaipur here.

Local Planners-Book your wedding planner in Jaipur here.

8. Mykonos, Greece

Visa-Use steps given here to apply for Greek visa.

Travel Time- From Mumbai, approx 13 hours with 2 stops.

Stunning Settings-Mykonos Grand

Local Planners- The Twelve Events

9. Kerala, India

Visa- None

Travel Time- Approx 2 hours by flight from Mumbai.

Stunning Settings-How about a clifftop affair at The Leela?

Local Planners-Tamarind

10. Mysore, India

Visa- None

Travel Time- 45 minutes from Bengaluru

Stunning Settings- Book a hotel or resort for your destination wedding in Mysore here.

Local Planners- Book a wedding planner for your Mysore wedding here.

Main image: Studio Fine Arts

The post 10 Awesome Destinations For A Spring-Summer Wedding! appeared first on India's Wedding Blog.

Love is in the air-and you ought to capture it before it starts fading away. How? By taking a selfie, of course! Yes, agree or not-the selfie has become an integral part of life these days. We cannot deny the joy of clicking our own pics with just the touch of a button or the wave of our hand. Different angles, looks, poses and filters…taking a selfie has never been easier. Most of us do not miss the opportunity of taking a selfie. And what better time to take one than when you are out with your better-half to be, celebrating some romantic post-Valentine’s Day moments? There has to be a selfie for every beautiful moment you spend together! So today our focus is on how to take the perfect couple selfie-read on for some important tips:

Tips to Take the Perfect Couple Selfie

A selfie is mostly about perfecting the pose and the angle, so we will give you some quick tips on the types of selfies first that are especially meant for couples. The next time you two are hanging out, or enjoying a holiday together or attending your BFF’s wedding,  try these poses for sure.

Types of Couple Selfie You Can Try

Impress Digital Studio

1. Holding hands: Whether you are visiting the Taj Mahal or sipping cappuccino at a Starbucks, nothing can beat taking a couple-selfie holding hands. It might sound cheesy, but try it once and you will want to do it again and again.

2. Happy feet: Move on from selfies and click those cute feet instead. Imagine relaxing on a couch or enjoying the sea waves on a beach, the picture of your happy feet together is a must. Use some out-of-the-box thinking and get creative to show off your pedicure in style!

3. A quick peck: Obnoxious for some, but endearing for most. Click a selfie as your partner gives a sweet peck on your cheek.

4. Piggy back ride: It’s pretty romantic of guys when they give their girlfriends piggy back ride. Why don’t you capture that sweet gesture with a selfie?

5. Follow me: The Russian couple, Murad Osmann and Nataly Zakharova, have started this “Follow me” trend with a series of pictures where the woman is seen leading her partner to some of the world famous tourist spots including Taj Mahal. Take inspiration from Nataly and add your creative or funny touch to it.

Impress Digital Studio

Some More Tips for Perfect Couple Selfie

Follow the rule of thirds: Frame it in a way that your faces are not exactly aligned at the centre. Shift a little right or left of the frame.

Mind the lighting: Make sure the light source is not right behind you two. If possible, use natural light to your advantage, but avoid too much exposure to bright sunlight as it could spoil the pic.

Don’t forget to smile: Because you don’t want to look grumpy together.

Click from top angles: To smartly hide the doublechins and look slimmer.

Featured Image Courtesy: WedRed

The post How to Take the Perfect Couple Selfie appeared first on India's Wedding Blog.

We’ve all been there. ‘Are we just friends?’ ‘What if he is never going to propose like I imagined?’ ‘Are his parents looking for another bride?’ ‘ I wish I could get inside his head and see what he’s thinking for myself.’ One of the worst stressful periods that any girl can go through in life is that anxiety that is attached to a life changing moment- will he propose marriage or not. We’re here to help you decode those hidden glances, sly looks and any other confusing thoughts you may have right now. Here are the top – signs that he is going to propose to you, as certified by love experts:

1. He starts acting possessive

He never had a problem with you gushing about your favourite actor or even talking non-stop about other guys in your life- like a good pal, a colleague or even a mentor. But, when he starts getting possessive about you and changes the topic mid-way, it’s only because he wants to be the only guy on your mind. Every time.

2. He gets secretive

He doesn’t want you asking too many questions about why he was late for the date or what he’s doing on his weekend when he isn’t with you. Either he’ll just avoid those questions altogether or give you answers that don’t sound right. It could be because he’s planning a surprise proposal!

Image courtesy Wedding Archives

3. He keeps glancing at your hand

Most guys say that the reason why they do this is to get an idea about the ring size so that nothing goes wrong when the question is actually popped. Imagine being proposed with a loose ring that slips off the minute it’s put on. How embarrassing that would be!

4. He gets interested in jewellery

Guys who are about to propose suddenly get interested in jewellery. He may actually make a note of the kind of ring you like or get your bestie to talk to you about your taste in jewellery. Either way, he wants as much information about your dream engagement ring before he goes ahead and buys one.

5. He makes plans

He talks about going on a trip alone together, just the two of you. And he keeps reminding you about the ‘date’ that you have with him at least a few times before the actual day. He’s never shown this kind of enthusiasm or persuasion before! Maybe it’s because he wants to propose to you at a special spot.

Image courtesy WedRed

6. He gets interested in fitness

He has started to take better care of himself and actually asks your opinion on how he’s looking. It could be attempts at getting fitter, a change in hairstyle or a new dressing style. Whatever it may be, he wants to be sure that you find him attractive and it is to-be-Mrs approved!

7. He asks subtle questions

He may ask you to tell him about your dream proposal when you both are watching a movie together or just lounging around on the couch. There’s a good chance that he will drop the question so subtly that you won’t even realise that you’ve just spilled the beans.

8. He might even ignore you!

He may ignore you for a few days or weeks. Sure he will take your call, but he won’t make any plans to hang out together like he usually does. If you’re sure that you are still the queen in his life, then one reason why he is doing this could be because he wants to propose to you when you are least expecting it.

Image courtesy Dream in Focus

9. He introduces you to his family/friends

A guy who is about to propose will proudly introduce his girlfriend to the people in his life who matter the most- that includes his family and close circle of friends. So, if his mom takes a liking to you and he doesn’t dismiss it off as a temporary thing, then he is definitely thinking about you for the long haul.

10. He gets talking about the future-a lot

He actually asks you about your future plans and tries convincing you every now and then that you two are ‘made for each other’. That’s his way of saying that you both have a sure place in each other’s lives.

Main Image courtesy Dream in Focus

The post 10 Signs He Is Going To Propose Marriage Soon appeared first on India's Wedding Blog.

We agree that everybody decides and defines her own style when it comes to the bridal ensemble. One decides upon the makeup depending on the occasion, time of the day, the dress and the style statement ones plans on making. Several factors must be taken into consideration while choosing one’s makeup style. Of course, trends play a big role in this too. However, while following makeup trends, one must be a tad bit careful; you certainly do not want to follow the wrong ones or the ones that have failed in the fashion world. So today, we have listed a number of these failed makeup trends that brides need to stay away from this wedding season.

Failed Makeup/Fashion Trends to be Aware of

1. Contouring Overdone

While the importance of contouring  in makeup is unparalleled, overdoing it can only cause a huge fashion faux pas. There was a time when celebrities would come out with heavy contouring, but that’s no longer the trend now. Now it is all about subtle, minimalist look.

2. Full-coverage HD foundation

Whether it is your wedding or another related event; try not to go for the full-coverage foundation just to look good in the pics. Remember that this type of makeup is strictly meant for professional HD photoshoots and can look terrible if not done well.

3. Scary Long Nails

We are no longer in the 90’s when long red nails were a rage among Bollywood heroines. We have moved on from that to much sober, natural-looking nails and elegant nailart.

4. Over-plumped Lips

While the appeal of fuller lips is here to stay, too much of anything is just not desirable. You might have seen models and actresses painting their lips in a way that gives a plumped-up look, but those days are past. Today, the trend is to keep things much more natural or close-to-natural.

Capturing Creatures

5. Weird Hair Colour

Well, this is one trend that has definitely failed to win the heart of Indians. So no blue or other shockingly weird hair colour please!

6. Visibly Outlined Lips

Remember the time when ladies used to choose their lip-liner shades a lot darker than their lipstick? Well, a visible lip-liner was the trend, the key word here being ‘was’. It is not so any more, so choose a liner close to your lipstick shade as possible.

7. Abnormally Enhanced Body Parts

Unless you want your makeover to be obvious?If you plan to go under the knife, make sure the enhancements are subtle. Of course, we hope you discuss the repercussions of such surgeries with your family-to-be as well. Definitely reconsider these enhancements if you are planning to start a family in the near future.

8. Matte Lipstick

Matte lipstick is more suitable for everyday wear. If you are attending a wedding/prewedding function, a glossy look is more acceptable.

9. Fake Creepy Eyelashes

Eyelashes make the eyes look beautiful. But there are some that come in extra-long, extra-curvy varieties that are anything but appealing. Discuss this with your MUA and stay away from such creepy lashes.

10. Too Smoky/Catty Eyes

If you don’t want to look sleep-deprived or sick, then you must avoid those over done smoky eyes. And stay away from the cat eye too- it is a thing of the past! And please ladies- no colored contacts either! Not only do they damage your eyes, they also give you a weird look in photos.

Featured Image Courtesy: Camera Crew

The post Failed Makeup & Fashion Trends to Stay Away From appeared first on India's Wedding Blog.

“I have been privileged to be a part of many weddings and each one is an incredible experience. I endeavor to capture them creatively and provide a beautiful story of your most precious moments”, says ace wedding photographer Darshan Ambre. Read his complete interview below and to book him for your big day or to see his complete portfolio, click here.

1) Tell us a bit about yourself and your company.

Darshan Ambre Photography is a team of Contemporary wedding photography and Cinematic wedding films, which is slightly over 5years old. In this short period, besides wedding and associated events, we have successfully handled and contributed our vast expertise to varied genres of photography, including corporate events, architecture, maternity shoots and family portraits. We have even enjoyed documenting the work and events of few environmental NGOs and we are always willing to explore more and deliver well, with the help of our closely knit and dedicated team!

Although I Graduated in Advertising, my lessons in photography began way early during my childhood thanks to my father, who is an Ace photographer himself. So I have handled a wide range of manual and non-digital cameras and am also familiar with film processing.

Wedding photography has been my forte and I have photographed over 150 weddings in different traditions and cultures across the country. I have travelled to remote corners of the country including states like Rajasthan, Gujarat, Goa, and Chhattisgarh for wedding shoots.

Our company consists of a co-ed team of highly motivated and skilled guys and girls, who ensure a qualitative output but with a personal touch. In short, we strive for our customers smile and work tirelessly to make their moments immortal.

2) What made you get into wedding photography?

Back during college days I had shot a wedding in our family and the results got me a lot of praise and appreciation. The general feedback was that I had managed to capture the emotions well. And the genre stuck… Wedding is a once-in-a life time experience for the couple and their families and everyone expects that to be immortalized via photos. The high of being a part of this experience is what attracted me to wedding photography. The thrill of capturing something where there is no retake excited me.

 3) Can you walk us through the procedure of how you get to know a couple before you agree to be their photographer?

Before agreeing to be their photographer, I usually meet the couple in person. These meetings help us understand their taste and expectations. Also, these days, before the wedding day most couples opt for a pre wedding shoot. In this pre-wedding shoot I try and understand their personal story and journey. This gives them greater comfort and ease with me and my team way before the wedding day. Another plus point for us is that most of my clients approach me through social media and personal interactions occur much later. Thus, the pre-wedding shoot tends to be an ice-breaker and when we weave in their personal stories and the difficulties in their path, in their photographs or films, the couple warms up to me and my team. The actual wedding then is a breeze…

 4) What is the best part of capturing Indian weddings?

India is a multi-cultural county and each culture/religion has so many variations, right from rituals, to dressing, cuisines and even timings of the shoot. Sometimes weddings are even shot at their respective places of worship. The ambience of the venue adds to the flavour and mood of the wedding shoot.

That being said, all Indian weddings are vibrant, colourful and full of action. They are a stark contrast to European weddings or those in other countries, where rehearsal shoots and dinners bring in a certain sense of planning. The vibrancy and unexpectedness of events, locations, familial, regional and cross-cultural customs allows Indian wedding photographers to explore much higher levels of creativity. Most Indian weddings tend to span over a few days, as they include events such as Haldi, Mehendi, Sangeet, among others and the photographer thus becomes an integral part of the family and the wedding.

 5) Have you experienced any awkward moments while shooting a wedding?

A wedding has many personal moments and as a photographer it is difficult to resist the temptations to capture those moments without infringing on their personal space and boundaries.  Bidai (send-off) is one such emotional and fragile moment. It needs deep restrain to capture those intimate moments of a bride and groom with their family members. I usually make sure that me and my team shoots this from a distance without disturbing that special moment. Sometimes it’s awkward to get senior family members to pose as they are uncomfortable being shot. In both these cases, one needs a lot of tact and patience and yet deliver the desired results.

 6) Can you recall the most interesting wedding you have shot so far and what made it different/special?

For me, each wedding I shoot has something special or is a different experience. But one wedding I would like to highlight was that of a senior couple, well past their 40s. For both of them, this was their second marriage. It was a wedding located in a South Indian temple and there was a guest list of only five persons. The temple’s ambience and its aura added to the simplicity and beauty of this wedding. The thread bareness of this wedding made it a challenge to portray and the client and I personally were very happy with the outcome. This shoot helped me grow as a creative photographer.

In a total contrast to the five-guest wedding, is my other favourite wedding, which was a lavish princely affair I shot at Ayush Resort, Panvel. The wedding venue was massive and designed on a palatial theme. As the groom was an Englishman marrying an Indian girl, the guest list consisted of over a 1000 persons of varied nationalities. The wedding rituals involved mega-entertainment events for the guests, photo booths, live Shehnai performers. The sprawling palace ambience was delectably decorated with the choicest flowers and for each of these events, we got to use a huge variety of photographic equipment and accessories including cranes and drones. The highlight was the bride and groom’s procession, which was a royal entry with a cavalcade of horses. Shooting this wedding was challenging yet interesting and exciting at various levels.

 7) Share three of your favourite images with our readers.

8) Your favourite venue in or around Mumbai and why?

Among all the venues we’ve shot in, the Alibaug beach destination wedding was one of my personal favourites. The ambience, open air setup, beach frontage, shooting in the evening light, followed by a lovely sunset, leading into the most elegant night for reception, lit with Chinese paper lanterns. It was a photographer’s dream set-up. It was the kind of wedding people gush and get romantic about in Hollywood films.

An equally elegant and sophisticated venue I’ve shot three weddings at is this Club in the Navy Nagar. The Navy atmosphere and the smart officers in uniform, their brass band, a sprawling lawn at the end of which the sea begins, it is a delightful venue. This rare venue however is a restricted area and allocated to only navy personnel. However, what made the venue so perfect for the shoots was the discipline of the entire gathering of hosts, guests and the Naval staff. It goes without saying; it was a picture perfect venue.

9) Biggest lesson you have learned while in this business and advice you’d pass on to other aspiring photographers.

Wedding photography is about patience and understanding your client; once you have that under control, then the output is magical. Also learn to balance between the expectations of the parents or family and the couple, who both are your clients. Marriages are as much about the family and relatives as much as the couple, so dedicate time and personnel to capture their expressions and involvement for a holistic coverage. Wedding photography has long hours to endure but it is critical that you are present at the right moment to capture those special moments on the event.

Also aspiring photographers shouldn’t rush into setting up independent practices. It is always advisable to first assist a few senior and established photographers and learn some tricks of the trade as well as observe varied styles and methods of handling difficult shoots. After a few years of hands-on learning, one should gradually move to private practice.

10) Any advice for clients-to-be?

Always meet and discuss the wedding shoot in advance. Economics do matter, but do assess a photographer from his/her output. So study their work and select your photographer wisely. Give sufficient time to your photographer both for the couple and to click family members. Sometimes listening to the creative ideas of the photographer can bring out a very different output, but do let them know any specific expectations as well as don’ts. And finally have faith in your photographer and his/her team.

Clients have to realize that an ideal photographer will help you etch out your happiest and most personal moments in a style that most closely resembles your own thought process. So do realize that while you spend lavishly on clothing, venue, décor and catering, your photographer is the channel to capture all this for permanency. So don’t cut corners when selecting your photographer, and allocate a suitable budget towards the final out, be it photo albums, films!

The post Supplier Spotlight: Meet Your Wedding Photographer Darshan Ambre appeared first on India's Wedding Blog.

Following a fairytale destinaiton wedding in Udaipur, Neil Nitin Mukesh and Rukmini Sahay hosted a lavish, starry reception for their friends from the film industry in Mumbai. We bring you the pics!

Inside the starry wedding reception of Neil Nitin Mukesh and Rukmini Sahay

The couple enthralled guests and onlookers as they entered the J W Marriot in Juhu in colour-coordinated emerald green outfits designed by Manav Gangwani. While Rukmini looked gorgeous in that heavily embroidered lehenga, Neil looked dapper in the Rajasthani attire.

Instagram

From Rekha to Amitabh Bachchan, from Katrina Kaif to Iulia Vantur, everybody from the film fraternity of Bollywood made it to the reception to wish the newlywed couple, making it a star-studded affair.

Instagram

Abovem you can see the couple with Nitin Mukesh and the evergreen beauty Rekha in gorgeous golden saree.

vogue.in

Amitabh Bachchan with wife Jaya Bachchan also attended the wedding reception of Neil Nitin Mukesh and Rukmini Sahay, and happily posed for the shutterbugs.

Zeenews.india.com

None other than the bhai of Bollywood, Salman Khan also graced the event and can be seen above looking dapper in a black suit. Interestingly, his rumored girlfriends, Katrina Kaif and Iulia Vantur also happened to be there at the event.

Here are some more pictures of Neil Nitin Mukesh and Rukmini Sahay with their friends from Bollywood.

Instagram

The happy couple posed with Evelyn Sharma.

Instagram

With the VJ and singer Sophie Choudry.

Instagram

Sophie Choudry posted this happy picture from the event with Katrina Kaif on her Instagram profile.

Instagram

Dressed in a pink Manish Malhotra lehenga, Sophie looked like a princess with the traditional jewelleries – jhoomar and pasha.

Instagram

The German beauty could easily put others in shame in this beautiful Payal Singhal lehenga.

Instagram

Pooja Hedge appeared in this Anita Dongre outfit.

Instagram

Urvashi Rautela seen here posing in Kalki Fahsion outfit.

Instagram

Iulia Vantur literally turned many heads in this black and golden Sabyasachi lehenga.

Instagram

The couple posed for the shutterbugs with Mugdha Godse.

All images: via Instagram

The post Pics from The Grand Wedding Reception of Neil Nitin Mukesh and Rukmini Sahay appeared first on India's Wedding Blog.

Weddings demand novelty at every step and even more in the wedding colour themes. Indian wedding colours which ruled the roost last year are now being replaced by a set of more interesting an trendier colours this year. If you look closely, every passing year has made the wedding colours subtler, more chic and contemporary to suit the taste of changing times. Discussed below are top 10 wedding color themes which will never fade out from the wedding scene in India. Because these colors are so ingrained in the Indian culture; they literally represent the core essence of India.

Top 10 Wedding Color Themes in Indian Wedding

1. Yellow

We all know how much we love the appeal of this refrshing, bright color. And if you’re planning a grand summer wedding then you will get extra brownies for going all yellow with those elaborate drapes and props. Look how vintage lemon yellow can get if you use it correctly.

Cineyug Celebrations

Justin Rabindra Photography

2. Violet and White

The sensuous color violet, when combined with white can create magic for sure.

Image: Cineyug Celebrations

3. Yellow, Blue and Golden

Ever knew that these three quintessential Indian colors could change your wedding setup in such a glamorous way?

Cineyug Celebrations

4. Rainbow Colors

Want that boho chic feel in your wedding theme? Go game with all the seven colors ans you will get a magnificent result that can put all the other wedding color themes to shame.

WedRed

5. White and Golden

This timeless color combination holds a special place in South Indian weddings.

CameraCrew

6. Magenta, Ivory White and Golden

Get away from the typical pink and try this unique theme color combination.

Candid Kliks

7. Mughal Saffron

This saffron gives the look of royal mahals and durbars. Therefore, a must for your royal themed wedding.

Confetti Films

8. Red

Red and Indian wedding are kind of synonymous. But, how about giving it a different level altogether by implementing some interesting mix-n-match like this one?

9. Golden and Purple

Precisely, sky is the limit when you have these two colors in hand.

The Wedding Salad

10. White

Break the monotony of white, but, in such a fascinating way.

The Photo Diary

The post Top 10 Wedding Colour Themes in Indian Wedding appeared first on India's Wedding Blog.

If you feel that your wedding or engagement ring isn’t sitting as snugly as it ought to on your finger, or if it’s a tad too tight, don’t fret because your jeweller will be able to resize the ring for you in just a few days. So, what actually happens during ring resizing and what should facts should you be aware of ?

How Do I Make My Ring Smaller?

Jewelers have no trouble making a big ring smaller so that it fits you perfectly simply because its easier to make rings smaller than to make them bigger. What happens is that, your jeweller will take a new measurement of your finger, measure it against the actual ring size and then decide how much of the ring needs to be cut away. Yes, ring resizing requires cutting out a small portion and then re-soldering the two pieces back together. A smooth polish which is used to give the ring shine also ensures that the job is done to perfection and nobody will be able to tell that your ring has been resized at all.  Here’s what you need to know- when the soldering has been done perfectly, the soldered area will be flat and polished and there will not be any visible dents. If you do spot a dent, it’s a good indication that the band is very thin at that particular spot and that your ring will break into two sometime later on frequent use. Talk to your jeweller about adding more metal to any weak spot so that your wedding ring lasts longer.

How Do I Make My Ring Bigger?

If your ring is too tight right now and just cannot be worn comfortably at all, then the next option is to make it bigger by ring resizing. Making a ring bigger also requires soldering of two pieces which have been stretched out to achieve maximum length. However, here is the catch- Stretching any metal can be done to not more than a half size increase in length as making the ring any bigger could adversely affect the durability of the metal itself. Do keep in mind that the material used (gold, silver, platinum or a mix) and the design of the band itself need to be studied in detail by the jeweller before any actual soldering is done.

So, Can All Metals Be Resized?

Well, that depends on what kind of metal has been used to make your ring. Titanium is tough to work with and that’s why most jewellers would prefer to leave titanium rings just as they are without ring resizing. Secondly, if the design of the ring itself is pretty intricate and there are gemstones involved, ring resizing could actually change the entire look of the band itself. Resizing rings with inset gemstones requires removing the stones first before cutting and soldering. Other than diamonds, most other gemstones could get destroyed or lose their sheen when in direct contact with high heat.

As always, nobody can give you better advice on ring resizing than your jeweller, and that’s why it’s best to consult him first!

Image courtesy Camera Crew

The post All That You Need To Know About Ring Resizing appeared first on India's Wedding Blog.

While it is true that deep down everybody wants a fairy-tale wedding; in most cases the wedding budget interferes with these dreams. Either the bride and groom risk everything and go overboard in an attempt to fulfill their childhood dreams or they make compromises for the sake of it. But what if we tell you that you can cut your wedding costs without compromising? Yes. You don’t have to be a wedding professional to do so. All you need is a few trick up your sleeves to make it through without failure. Here we will talk about the tricks and tips to help you manage your wedding budget without compromising on fun or joy of the occasion.

10 Magic Ways to Cut Your Wedding Budget

1. Know bargaining terms

When you shop for the mehndi lehenga or the sangeet outfit, try not to mention these words. Even better, try not to announce to the entire store that it is your wedding. Rather just ask them to show you some exclusive dresses. The moment the shopkeepers get to know that it’s your wedding, they will probably show you overpriced lehengas. Same is true with MUAs. Instead of asking them to cover your sangeet or engagement, tell them to just do your party makeup.

2. Trim your wedding decor

Instead of cutting your guest list short, you can replace the roses with seasonal flowers and the ceiling decorations with printed linens.

3. Quick does it

When you take a year or longer to plan a wedding, you end up buying unnecessary items which you may not even use. To avoid that, keep your wedding planning timeline short. Of course, you must book your venue and photographer a year in advance.

4. Say hello to brunch

For the sangeet, mehndi and engagement days, opt for brunch or lunch instead of a full course dinner. Your guests will love the idea of a sit down lunch reception followed by light cocktail drinks.

5. Choose local venues

We understand the allure of the faraway exotic destination, but if you have a tight budget, selecting a local venue like a banquet hall or hotel will be much beneficial.

6. Ditch the theme but in a clever way

Don’t choose a complete theme package; you will have no liberty over the costs. And, honestly, sometimes, more than 50% items used in a theme wedding hold no value at all.

7. Ready-made venues are ‘in’

Yes, plenty of wedding venues are ready-made. They come much cheaper than the virgin venues which need to be decorated for a wedding.

8. Keep a tab on the bar

Unless you are from Punjab, you can limit the bar. Oftentimes, people go broke after setting up unlimited bar in their weddings.

9. Let your creative friends showcase their talents

The junior from college takes amazing photographs: give him a chance. The ex-colleague of yours is excellent in making handicrafts-let her help with the decorations. Of course, they will not work for free. But they will charge you way less than any professionals.

10. Skip the ‘season’

The best way to cut your wedding costs short is to not get married when it’s off-wedding season i.e. in December, February or November. This is a great way of getting good deals on venues.

Photography Courtesy: Chintu Pathak

The post How To Cut Wedding Costs Without Compromising appeared first on India's Wedding Blog.

It all starts with the wedding invitation and when there are no dearth of designs to choose from, how do you decide which one to choose? Not to forget that separate invitations are needed for each function because there are individual guest lists for each ceremony. It’s not surprising then that Indian couples are more than willing to explore the many options that paperless wedding invitations give them. We could go on and on about the many advantages of going paperless or digital- for starters, it’s a great way to keep costs low, secondly, you don’t have to worry about whether the invitation has reached the guest or not and thirdly, you get to design and customise your card the way you want.

If you would like to explore the idea of paperless wedding invitations, then here are the top 4 wedding invitation websites you need to check out today:

DesiEvite

We loved the fact that one can browse through a wide range of designs and choose to customise the cards in a regional language too. Plus, you get to upload an image of your choice on DesiEvite, design the envelope you want and even pick out specific icons for you and your better half. Add any text that you want to your design and share your invitation card with your friends and family on Facebook, Google Plus, Pinterest or even Twitter. Simply send this invitation to your guests and you don’t have to worry about whether they will turn up for your special day or not. Try their ‘Premium’ section for more exclusive designs.

Yoovite

If you thought that Yoovite was only meant for birthday party invitations, then you couldn’t be more wrong. They’re quite popular with couples who prefer a greener touch to their weddings too. Here’s how it works- You sign up on the site. Next, you select a theme and add your event details such as the venue, date, time etc. With a Google Maps integration feature included, your guests wont struggle to find the venue. After this, add the email addresses of your guests from your email address book, preview the card and hit ‘Send’. As soon as the invitation hits their inbox, they will get an SMS and email alert. The second they RSVP for your function, you get a notification too. In fact, it’s the easy to use RSVP feature in Yoovite that makes paperless wedding invitations this fun!

Image courtesy Utsav Cards

Invity

Not satisfied with merely sending paperless wedding invitations? Then, let Invity make all your wedding dreams come true. By registering on their website for free (they have great packages to offer which include plenty of feature upgrades), you get to include guests from anywhere in the world to be a part of your wedding story. From changing the theme of your wedding website whenever you feel like it, to sending invitations, to adding a photo gallery and keeping guests updated with titbits to sharing your love story; you can do all this and more with Invity. Reminders and sms alerts are other welcome features too.

InviteIndia

Quite similar to Invity in terms of features, what we liked the most about InviteIndia was that the registration is free and users can choose from three affordable packages to access a number of exclusive features. Those who register for the Platinum package which can be purchased at Rs 600/- can access and update their wedding website for a whole year. We also liked the fact that users can create three wedding invitations together by using any of the sample templates (yes you can also add music if you want) and these can be emailed depending upon which guest you want to invite for a specific ceremony.

Have any paperless wedding invitation ideas you would like to share with us? Feel free to write in to us.

Main image courtesy Rajratan Paper Products

The post 4 Trending Paperless Wedding Invitation Ideas To Try appeared first on India's Wedding Blog.

Press Release

For Immediate Release:

Hop N Shop Pop Up Bazaar/weddingsonline India Present Hop N Shop Spring Fiesta In Ahmedabad

One of a Kind Bridal Exhibit In Ahmadabad

Radisson Blu, Ahmedabad 26^th February 2017– Hop N Shop Pop Up Bazaar along with weddingsonline India brought together a fabulous array of products for brides, grooms and their families in a first-of-its-kind exhibition in Ahmedabad. The daylong Sixth Edition Hop N Shop Spring Fiesta, which has been held in Mumbai five times before, brought together spirited representatives from the best businesses in and around Gujarat.

The exhibition received a fantastic response from bridal families with more than thousand people shopping for shoes, bags, wedding gifts and favours, festive and designer wear, jewellery, home furnishings and so on. Some of the noteworthy vendors who kept a stall at the exhibition included: Joules By Radhika, Bandhej by Suleman Ababil, Tilo Home furnishing from Udaipur, Elegance & You, Anjali Emporium, Kavita’s Couture, Trishna Arts, Neetashri Boutique and so on.

 “There are so many talented businesses and vendors working so close to us, that we had to have them together under one roof’, said a spokesperson for Hop N Shop. “Our aim was to create a one stop shopping experience for talented entrepreneurs, shopaholics and bridal families so everyone gets the best bargain”.

Karan Singhania, sales manager at weddingsonline India, said “It is great for team weddingsonline to be a part of such events. After all, for brides and their families, having so many great ideas for one’s bridal trousseau and wedding favours is always a good problem to have!”

Hop N Shop Pop Up Bazaar will continue hosting such exhibitions from time to time, in and around Mumbai. To keep yourselves up-to-date with their events, follow Hop N Shop on Facebook here.

Brides and grooms can find their wedding suppliers by filling up this service finder form on weddingsonline site. Wedding suppliers can register on the site by filling up the form here or by calling +91 9167 0160 76.

About Hop N Shop

Hop N Shop is a specially curated PopUp Bazaar for exclusively selected entrepreneurs to showcase their best collection giving consumers a unique experience of counter culture. Every exhibition is set up with an aim to make it a shopaholics paradise where vendors and shoppers come together to make the day pleasing, festive and eventful.

About weddingsonline India

weddingsonline India is the sister arm of the Irish weddingsonline Ireland business. In its 5^th year in India, the country’s largest wedding planning portal brings together brides and wedding suppliers under one roof. The trusted brand has connected more than 165,000 brides with wedding photographers, makeup artists, caterers, event planners and fashion designers.

Visit weddingsonline India office at

408 Laxmi Mall,
Laxmi Industrial Estate,
Andheri Link Road,
Andheri (West),
Mumbai 400 053.

Or email them at

office@weddingsonline.in

Tel: +91 9167 0160 76

The post weddingsonline And Hop N Shop Present Spring Fiesta In Ahmedabad appeared first on India's Wedding Blog.

Congratulations! You are excited to be engaged and will soon begin your wedding day preparations. Needless to remind you that your wedding day requires careful planning and the wonderful moments will be forever preserved in your beautiful wedding photos. Because of the important place your wedding photos hold in your heart, you must choose your wedding photographer with care. Once your venue has been booked, do contact Raja Patel of Impress Digital Studio to set up an appointment and discuss your wedding photography plans. Here is a detailed interview with Raja ji….

1) Tell us a bit about yourself. How did you get started in this business?

Photography has been an interest for me since childhood. Even during my college days from 1993-97, we used to have Photography as a subject in fine arts. It enthralled me so much that after working as a graphic designer for a period of time, I began photography as a full time profession. Since then there has been no looking back, Currently I have over 19 years of professional experience in Digital Photography and shoot across the globe.

2) How would you describe your photography style?

Photography is everything about being natural, and capturing the same on your lenses. If I talk about what particularly I look forward in a perfect photography style-it is the emotions, expressions, moments that need to be captured in each shot. Candid and abstract is another type which I would say is a part of my working style. Basically I include the knowledge of what I had studied back then in fine arts. Every image of mine has a shape, a form which is perfectly composed and that comes out as a perfect image. Artistic pictures, which tell a story is a thing I love.

3) How do you prepare for shooting a wedding?

Well, a whole lot of things go into preparation for a wedding. We have to check and make sure these details are perfect. Some of them include listing out requirements, checklist preparations, location details etc. Then we also arrange for props and lighting. Based on client requirements too, we generate creativity which is very important. Once all the props seem good, I begin my work. Sometimes there may even be a drone requirement, so testing the same and double checking the lights and lengths are a crucial detail that mustn’t be missed.

4) Have you ever had to cover a wedding wherein you did not like the location/setting? Alternatively, describe a wedding that was tricky to cover?

Location doesn’t matter, what matters is how we make everything and everyone look perfect with minimal arrangements, props involved. Not everyone can afford luxurious set up-so my work is to cull out a perfect frame from minimum availability. This is the main reason why people hire me and I make sure I do my job well.

Have I covered a difficult wedding? Yes, many times. Not specific or to the point but it becomes very hard when the lights point are unavailable, timings are not set, or clients show little interest. Often, it’s very difficult for people to be expressive in front of the camera.

5) Not all couples are comfortable before the camera. How do you put them at ease?

Right, that can get a bit tricky and not everyone can do it. What makes it easier for me is, I see what nature has given them and accordingly I highlight those features. Thankfully, I am an extrovert when it comes to interacting with people. So, we make sure we are comfortable with each other, and then the process flows. Once the comfort zone prevails, getting a perfect natural shot becomes easy.

6) Can you share 4 of your favorite images with our readers?

7) Finally-what tips would you offer your clients/our readers, who are about to get married, as far as their wedding photo album is concerned?

Be natural, always! One should be in a comfortable zone so your photographer can get the perfect click. Also, expressions matter but one need not be camera conscious.

Book Impress Digital Studio for your big day by clicking the link here.

All images courtesy Impress Digital Studio

The post Meet Your Wedding Photographer- Raja Patel of Impress Digital Studio appeared first on India's Wedding Blog.

Holi is just around the corner and now is the time to enjoy splashing colours on loved ones, getting drenched in coloured water and enjoying endless cups of bhang. But before you get lost in the fun and frolic that this much loved Indian festival has to offer, taking a few steps to prep up your skin and hair for Holi is  important. Believe it or not, but once those harmful  coloured chemicals get into your hair and skin, you are at a high risk of facing skin breakouts, acne problems and damaged hair. So, here’s what you need to do before stepping out for some fun:

Oil to the Rescue

You may not be in the habit of applying oil on your skin, but now is a good time to do just that. Take a bath before you go to play Holi and apply a good amount of oil to your skin after you pat it dry. Your skin will be able to soak up the oil really well and it is this sticky layer that will act like a natural barrier against those harmful coloured chemicals. As an additional precaution, you can also apply your favourite moisturiser too.

Wash your Hair

We suggest washing and prepping your hair before you go out to play. Apply a generous amount of oil after you wash your hair as well so that your mane stays soft and protected. The oil also prevents the hair from becoming more rough and brittle later. Hair experts advocate mixing Moroccan oil and olive oil in equal measure for good results but coconut oil works just as beautifully.

Painted Nails Rock

Discoloured or multi-coloured nails are often a big problem to deal with after the fun is over because the mixed colours do not fade away that easily. We suggest painting your nails in a dark shade like black, navy blue or blood red, so that you can use a nail polish remover later to clean your fingernails thoroughly.

Cover Your Skin

It’s important to keep as much of your skin covered as possible by wearing long sleeved clothes so that the possibility of Holi powder coming into direct contact with your skin is minimised. Long hair is best plaited instead of leaving it loose as the likelihood of more hair damage is higher. If you’re a fan of contact lenses, now would the right time to switch to a pair of spectacles so that you don’t get any nasty eye infections later.

Image courtesy Black and White Photography

Getting rid of the Holi colour stains on the skin is easier than you thought! Simply use cotton balls dipped in rose water to get rid of the colours gently and stick to home-made face masks made from besan, milk and honey to address any skin problems. Hair may be rinsed with a gentle shampoo at least two times to fully get rid of the powder. Do not forget to use a hair conditioner and a deep hydrating hair mask to keep your hair nourished and healthy. Here’s wishing you and your loved ones a colourful Holi!

Image courtesy Little Passports

The post Quick Ways To Prep Up Your Skin For Holi appeared first on India's Wedding Blog.

This January, ex-Bigg Boss contestant, Mandana Karimi had a court wedding with her businessman boyfriend, Gaurav Gupta. Last weekend, the couple tied the knot the traditional way. The entire event was held over several days as they had a sangeet, mehendi, main ceremony and reception. We have the pics of these events and needless to say that each one was a dreamy affair. Take a look at the pics Mandana and her friends shared on social media-there is tons of inspiration for you.

Wedding Pics of Mandana Karimi and Gaurav Gupta

The happy bride-to-be posted this pic of her on Instagram captioning it as the D day.

Mandana always had a thing for big fat Indian wedding and the couple left no stone un-turned to make it happen. Here you can see Mandana Karimi in beautiful traditional red bridal attire and jewelleries.

The wedding took place at the J W Marriot Sahar and was attended by close friends of the couple from Bollywood as well as the TV industry. Below are some more pics from the sangeet and mehndi ceremonies.

Some

Gauhar Khan, Tusshar Kapoor, Aftab Shivdashani and Jackiey Bhagnani were among the celebrities who attended the sangeet and wedding ceremony.

Below are some pics from the fairy tale reception of Mandana Karimi and Gaurav Gupta. While Mandana looked a diva in a minty green, midriff baring, off-shoulder fishtail gown with a sheer sheath, Gaurav looked every bit dapper in a black tuxedo.

Here are pictures of the celebrity guests at Mandana Karimi’s sangeet ceremony. Shahid Kapoor came to be a part of the dreamy ceremony with his wife, Mira Rajput.

Aftab Shivdashani also came to the venue with his wife in a black suit while Tusshar Kapoor attended the event in a black suit with blue borders.

Here is Mandana’s BFF- Bani J posed for the shutterbugs with Gauhar Khan.

Featured Image Courtesy: idiva.com

The post Wedding Pics of Ex-Bigg Boss Contestant Mandana Karimi appeared first on India's Wedding Blog.

When it comes to bridal jewelry pieces for a Hindu bride, no other piece holds as much significance as does the Mangalsutra. A beautiful Mangalsutra greatly enhances a woman’s beauty but it also depends on what she wears it with as well as its length. In today’s article, we are short listing 10 modern and ultra trendy short length mangalsutras for the modern Indian bride. All of these designs are from Gold 24. This online jewelry megastore is a pioneer in mangalsutra designs and they have a huge variety of gold necklaces and other jewlery pieces for you to browse through.

Gone are the days of the traditional mangalsutra

These days, most modern Indian women avoid wearing longer Mangalsutras to work. Traditional or longer managalsutra designs generally do not go well with western outfits such as jeans, skirts or short dresses. The trend nowadays is all about smaller or short lenght mangalsutra designs. A short length mangalsutra is the one characterized by a small pendant and a necklace the length of which reaches just a couple of inches below one’s base of the throat  . You can safely say that short lenght mangalsutras really bridge the gap between traditional and trendy. A working woman can easily wear these to work and even on western outfits without them clashing with the attire.

10 of The Best Short Length Mangalsutras

Floral Pendant

Avsar Gilded Chain

38-stone Intricate His & Her

43 Pc Tear Drop Diamond Mangalsutra

33 Pc Round White Stone Pendant

Scalloped 32 Pc Round Stone Short Length Mangalsutra

54 PC- Yellow Gold Short Length Mangalsutra

Arkina Diamond 40 Pc Mangalsutra

Candere Gold Ashley Mangalsutra Pendant

69 Pc Double Strand Candere Mangalsutra

All of the above pieces are customizable and you can choose from different metal colors, strands (single or double) as well as material grades (14 K or 18 K gold).

All images- Gold24.in

The post Top 10 Short Length Mangalsutras You’d Actually Want To Wear Everyday! appeared first on India's Wedding Blog.

Entire movies and TV shows have been made around mother in law and daughter in law themes with a son caught in between. The latter often has no idea as to how to deal with both the women in is life. Whilst you may be lucky to have an accommodating mother in law who doesn’t want anything more than a partner for her son who will take care of him, it’s also quite possible that you may find yourself dealing with a lady who secretly thinks you’re not doing a good enough job of wedding planning, and thus tries to interfere in almost every decision.

So, what do you need to do in such circumstances? We give you solutions that are guaranteed to work:

Problem 1- She thinks your wedding theme is awful and wants you to try out her idea instead.

Assuming that you have already discussed with your partner about the kind of wedding you both want, there’s no reason to change your wedding theme at all. However, do hear your mother in law out without disrespecting her and thank her for any suggestions she makes. If, the suggestions are in direct contrast to what you both have planned, let her know but make sure that the discussion ends there. Or her complaints could stay on your mind for a really long time.

Problem 2- She doesn’t like what you plan to wear and wants you to wear something that she has chosen.

It’s only fair to ask her what she has in mind for you to wear at the wedding but asking her to come along with you to pick out a wedding saree or a gown, is a good idea to try. Making her feel involved lets her feel wanted and also shows that you care about what she thinks. You don’t have to go with her choice just to make her happy- go with it only if you feel it looks good on you.

Image: Onkar Photography

Problem 3- You both want a quiet and small wedding but your mother in law wants to invite everybody she knows- even people who your partner hasn’t heard of

To be fair, your mother in law’s child is getting married and it’s only natural that she would want to share that happiness with everyone. Your ability to negotiate a way out of this situation depends on two factors- is she partly funding the wedding and how many guests does she want to invite. If she contributes to the wedding expenses, yes, she does have a say in deciding how many guests can be invited but there’s no reason why you, your partner and she can’t sit down together and decide on the final guest list numbers together.

Problem 4- Your mother in law keeps complaining to everyone that you aren’t letting her get involved in the wedding and that you’re ‘oh, so dominating’!

The most logical step you can take here is to assign a task or several tasks to your mother in law. It could range from deciding on the bridal bouquet to picking out the stage décor to purchasing the return favours. The best way to keep everyone happy and get some much needed help is by graciously allowing your mother in law to get involved in the wedding planning.

Main Image: Studio focus vision

The post 4 Tips on Handling Your Future Mother In Law appeared first on India's Wedding Blog.

What is Phubbing?

You must have come across this word on social media or while surfing the Internet. So what does the word phubbing mean? Well, phubbing is the act of snubbing someone by being busy on your phone. When you are with someone and instead of talking to that person you keep using your phone, you are phubbing. Simply put, it is a combination of phone+snubbing. Now you must be wondering how many times you have done so. To be very honest, we all have done it many times, probably without realizing. So are you guilty of phubbing now? A lot or a little?

Phubbing according to Urban Dictionary is-

If you are quite the phone addict, you might have ‘phubbed’ a few times already. Do you want to to be sure whether you are a phubber or not? Try answering these two simple questions and you will understand where you stand.

Do you often find yourself glued to your phone in the middle of a conversation?

And then an embarrassing “Sorry, where were we?”

Have you ever laughed out loud seeing something on your phone in the presence of another person?

Like some funny Facebook posts or a WhatsApp video? Also, when you are in a movie hall, do you often find yourself asking your friends to explain what’s happening on the screen as you were busy with the phone?

If the answer is yes then congratulations! You are a phubber already.

Did you know that Mumbai is one of the famous phubbing hotspots across world?

Why are we guilty of phubbing and yet, don’t plan to do much to change ourselves?

Psychologists say that phubbing hurts one-to-one communication. The moment you check your phone, even for a second, you break the conversation forever. You can never start from where you left. Moreover, the other person can feel left alone or ignored, even if for a moment. Therefore, he or she may feel less interested in continuing the conversation with the same enthusiasm. In fact, the mere presence of one mobile phone can impact the conversation between two people deeply.

More than anything, phubbing can be a real danger when it comes to relationships. Imagine a date out with your special one where your partner just keeps answering WhatsApp texts or calls or keeps posting pics on Instagram. Would you like it? Probably, not. This is how phone snubbing is taking a toll on modern relationships. While staying updated with currrent affairs is good, being obsessed with your smart phone is not. Taking your date out for a romantic dinner but spending most of the time replying back your WhatsApp messages can only hurt his/her feelings. Remember, WhatsApp messages, Facebook notifications, Twitter updates can never replace a person or the love and care.

So the next time you have a conversation with someone, keep the phone away. Instead, try to build a connection with the other person by means of heartfelt communication.

Images Courtesy: Camera Crew

Main image: via Pixabay

The post Are You Guilty of Phubbing? appeared first on India's Wedding Blog.

Everybody loves to hear touching and genuine compliments about themselves every now and then. Ironically, most couples never hesitate to compliment each other when they are courting or just engaged. Although relationship experts aren’t sure why, it’s a well-known fact that married couples rarely compliment each other and are more likely to take one another for granted. This could be attributed to many reasons- jobs, stress, kids, the feeling that one’s appreciation is already understood and hence doesn’t need to be stated.. the list goes on..

At weddingsonline, we believe in the power of complimenting your better half more often and really meaning it. You’ll feel the difference in your relationship almost instantly, so here are ten compliments that you remember to give:

I’m glad we are together

It doesn’t matter if yours was an arranged or a love marriage. But your spouse just being in your life is reason enough for you to be grateful and that appreciation needs to be shared.

I am so proud of you

Ever seen how little kids puff up their chests and glow when they are complimented? The same goes for your man too. If he works hard and does what it takes to keep your family happy, let him know. Being his cheerleader helps him turn to you more often when he feels low.

You make me feel younger

When you tell your partner that he makes you feel younger, it’s also like telling him that he is the reason behind your smiling happy face. It lets him know that you take note of such things.

You’re trustworthy

Trust is the rock on which any relationship is constructed and more so for a marriage. When you compliment your spouse by telling him that he is a person who can be trusted, you not only amp up his confidence but also let him know that he is worthy of you.

I know you work hard for us

We all take slogging away at our day jobs for granted, and whether we like it or not, the bulk of the stress for providing for the family falls on the husband. Showing your appreciation every now and then by acknowledging his efforts, inspires him to reach greater heights.

Thank you for..

It never hurts to say thank you when he does something for you, and yet this magic word is said ever so less in a marriage.

I need your advice

Asking for advice is an indirect compliment because it shows that he is worthy of your trust. Which husband wouldn’t like to be the first person you go to, when in need?

I really respect you

When you let your husband know he you respect him and that he has an undisputable place in your life, you are indirectly letting him know that his opinions and feedback matter to you. Plus, he is a priority!

You look really good

If your hubby has been hitting the gym with a vengeance then let him know that his new body (and his efforts) aren’t going in vain at all. You’ve noticed that he is on his way to getting fitter and healthier.

You look amazing

Think your spouse looks superb in that new black shirt? Let him know! He may not blush on first compliment but he will smile to himself just thinking about what you said. It’s a great way to start a new day!

What’s your favourite compliment to give your husband? Write in and tell us.

Both images courtesy Capturing Creatures

The post Compliments Your Husband Would Love To Hear From You! appeared first on India's Wedding Blog.

Today we have expert makeup artist Kajol R Paswwan with us in our office, answering common bridal queries. Kajol is a legend in her own right; she started working as a makeup professional a decade ago and has carved a niche in the industry. Kajol specializes in high definition, flawless makeup and is willing to travel to your wedding venue on your Big Day. To view her complete portfolio and book her services, click here.

1) What are the best bridal hairstyles lately for Indian brides? 

Gone are the days when brides would flaunt a typical bridal bun on their wedding day. However, the recent trend has been to give a twist to the bridal hairstyle with orchids and roses. Brides can choose the colour of the flower depending on their trousseau. For reception, I love to give brides an open hairstyle with beachy waves. Your hairstyle should depend on your face cut. Go for buns if you have a narrow face and long hairdo with soft curls looks fantabulous on broad face.

2) I have short hair. What do you recommend for my bridal hairstyle?

I would recommend you go for messy hair do for your pheras. A good makeup artist would not think about the length of your hair and plan your look. I would always give a hair style depending on your face shape. Also, these days for short hair, there are hair extensions available which add length as well as volume to your hair.

3) I tend to breakout in pimples when stressed. What should I do if that happens on my wedding day?

Aah! The best thing is not to get anxious if pimples breakout. It is natural for all of us to be anxious before the wedding. First of all, rub ice cubes on the areas of breakout. This will help the pimple breakouts to settle down and has a cooling effect. Secondly, DO NOT fret! A good makeup artist should be able to cover all the breakouts without any sign of pimples on the bride’s face. I have had so many clients with blemishes, open pores, pimples but nobody could make out about these on the wedding day. Relax, if you have chosen a good makeup artist you would look flawless and it is beyond our control to cure something which occurs naturally.

4) Which is the best bridal foundation for photos and flash- from my wedding album point of view?

I would completely lay my bet on Mac studio Sculpt Or Else Bobbie brown Foundation. With good products there is never an oily zone on your face and when the makeup base is good, the makeup looks natural and flawless. Make sure you ask your bridal makeup artist uses these as your makeup base.

5) How can I make my wedding makeup last all day long on my oily skin?

For oily skin, I strongly recommend to start with Gel Primer and Mac fix+ before starting the makeup. This locks up the oiliness and prevents it from spreading over the makeup base.

All images: Kajol R Paswwan

The post Ask The Expert: Kajol R Paswwan Bridal MUA Answers Common Bridal Queries appeared first on India's Wedding Blog.

Mumbai based bridal makeup artist Bhavna Dave learned all about beauty at an early age. Growing up, she would spend hours braiding her hair and trying out new hairstyles in front of the mirror. She believed she had a sense of style and fashion right since those developing years. Later, after her Std. X exams, she begged her parents to allow her to enroll in various beauty courses. “I never learned from the professionals- I just did whatever basic courses those were readily available in my neighbourhood. Most of what I am today is self-made.”

Having married early into a traditional family, she was not allowed to start her own salon. Instead, she got into a conventional 9-5 job but the yearning to start out on her own was always there. Then came a point in her life when their financial situation changed owing to difficulties at her husband’s job. “It was the turning point,” says Bhavana. “That was when I did the refresher courses and taught myself all over from magazines, books and videos”. Today, Bhavana Dave is a big name in professional wedding makeup industry. weddingsonline India puts the spotlight on Ms. Bhavana Dave. Here is the complete interview:

 If you weren’t a bridal makeup artist, you would be…..

I would still do something in the allied fields-either fashion designing or anything else beauty related.

 What is the biggest challenge you face as far as bridal makeup goes?

I get many brides having a dark skin tone and they all want a fairer look for their wedding. That can be challenging as you certainly do not want to go overboard.

 What is your signature look?

I pride myself on retaining my brides’ innocence. Traditional Indian bridal makeup invariably makes brides look much older than they are. I ensure that that is not the case with my girls.

 What products do you use?

MAC, Krylon and Bobbi Brown are my favourites.

 What is trending these days in bridal makeup?

2017 is all about the minimalist bride: the “no-makeup” makeup is hot. Almost every bride wants that subtle look.

 How do you find a balance between bridal makeup that is modern and,at the same time, ‘parent-friendly?’

Yes, that is always a huge challenge: brides want one thing while their moms and moms-in-law to be want something entirely different. Well, I usually go with what the bride wants. We also have a prior consultation so she can have bold eyes or lips or vice a versa. Then there are some trends which are timeless-the smoky eyes for example-they never go out of fashion –they are classic and modern at the same time.

 What is your price range for bridal makeup?

Prices vary based on client’s skin condition. Basic party makeup starts at INR 9000 onward.

Do you offer free trial/consultation?

That depends. If a bride is booking me for 2-3 ceremonies, then we charge a bulk amount that might include a free trial.

Finally: any words of advice for our brides?

Be yourself; do not follow trends blindly. And always choose your MUA with great care. Also, do not stress-keep a big smile on your face and everything will fall into place. Where possible, go for a trial makeup session with your bridal makeup artist.

To book Bhavna Dave for your big day, click here.

The post Supplier Spotlight: Interview With Bridal Makeup Artist Bhavna Dave appeared first on India's Wedding Blog.