Wedding Events

Saturday, September 21, 2024

HALDI (TURMERIC) CEREMONY | 1-3pm, Grand Hyatt Vail (outdoor garden)

Attire: Western or Indian semi-casual (wear colorful clothing if you can!) - see FAQ for more details

If your travel schedule permits, we love for you to join this Hindu pre-wedding ceremony. The haldi (or pithi) ceremony is a traditional pre-wedding ritual in Indian culture that embodies the spirit of helping the bride and groom get ready for their big day. You’ll get to slather some turmeric paste on Sanjana and Mitchell! You can learn more about the ritual here. Light bites will be served. 

There is no formal wedding event on Saturday evening, so you are welcome to explore Vail Village and grab dinner. See the FAQ for our restaurant recommendations. We would suggest making a reservation ahead of time.

Sunday, September 22, 2024

BARAAT (GROOM’S PROCESSION) | 3pm, starting at the Grand Hyatt Vail and ending at the Donovan Pavilion

Attire: Western or Indian formal

The baraat is Mitchell’s procession (traditionally on an elephant or horse) with family and friends who dance their way to the ceremony venue. Traditionally, the baraat only includes the groom’s side but in the spirit of inclusivity, so the more the merrier.There will be music, dancing, pomp, and all around celebration! 

When the procession arrives at the ceremony venue, the ‘milni’ (meaning “meeting” or “coming together”) ceremony will take place, where Mitchell and his family will be welcomed by Sanjana’s family. The ceremony symbolizes the union of their two families. You can learn more about the custom here.

WEDDING CEREMONY | 4pm, The Donovan Pavilion (outdoors)

Attire: Western or Indian formal - see FAQ for more details

Led by Dr. Raja Bhattar in both Sanskrit and English, the wedding ceremony will fuse elements of Hindu and Catholic traditions, those that hold special meaning to Sanjana, Mitchell, and their families.

COCKTAIL HOUR | 5:30pm, The Donovan Pavilion (outdoors)

This one is pretty self-explanatory! Enjoy cocktails and hors d'oeuvres while mingling. If you’d like to change into a different outfit for the reception, you can walk back to the Grand Hyatt to change clothing during this time.  

RECEPTION | 7-11pm, The Donovan Pavilion (indoors)

Attire: Western or Indian formal

Dinner, dancing, and maybe a few surprises.