HIGH DRAMA, LOW COST

Expert advice from three wedding planners on how to host a stunning wedding on a budget

- AKHILA RANGANNA and RADHIKA BHALLA

The year 2020 has been one of enormous change—and the way in which weddings are being celebrated has also shifted. Along with following strict protocols on social distancing, there's a keen focus on the practical use of resources. Enter, the wedding that’s kind to your budget, yet grand in impact. We’re talking smaller guest lists, smart décor alternatives, and spending wisely on what truly matters to you. And three expert planners share insider advice on how you can host functions that score high on luxury without burning a hole in your pocket.

MAKE THE CUT

“Weddings are costly in India because of the number of people we invite. This has a rollover effect on everything from the venue to the décor, food, gifting, and hospitality,” says Delhi-based Anika Dhawan, founder of celebrity wedding design and gifting company Rani Pink. (They worked on Sonam Kapoor and Anand Ahuja’s wedding in 2018).

According to her, the first thing the couple should consider is a a carefully-curated guest list—stick to family and your core group of friends. Next, draft out a workable budget, where you prioritise the details that matter most to you, and allocate funds accordingly. “Everyone's vision is different—some couples care more for the venue, others lay emphasis on the décor or even photography,” says Shweta Acharya, Baraati Inc, founder of India’s first process-driven wedding planning company.