7/10: The Sikh Ceremony

The Union of Two Souls

The Sikh ceremony, known as Anand Karaj ("Blissful Union"), is a deeply spiritual and communal experience. It focuses on the internal journey of the couple and the support of the community. This ceremony will be held in the late morning starting around 10am.

The Atmosphere: Expect a serene, meditative environment. Most of the ceremony involves the singing of hymns (Kirtan) and the couple circling the Guru Granth Sahib (the holy scripture).

The Seating: In the Gurdwara (temple), everyone sits on the floor to signify equality. If you have a physical condition that makes sitting on the floor difficult, please let us know!

The Dress Code: Out of respect, we ask that all guests wear modest clothing that covers. You will also be asked to remove your shoes and cover your head before entering the prayer hall. There is a designated area before entering to place your shoes and we will provide head coverings for men, but feel free to bring your own scarf if you prefer!

Specifics For Women: You are welcome to wear traditional Indian attire like a Punjabi Suit (Salwar Kameez) or a long kaftan. If you prefer Western clothing, a long dress (maxi) or loose trousers with a modest top is perfect. Make sure to bring a scarf to wear for head covering.

Pro Tip: Ensure knees are covered. You’ll be sitting on the floor, so avoid very short or tight skirts!

Specifics For Men: A Kurta Pajama, western suit or a dress shirt with trousers is great. A tie is optional.

The Food (Langar): After the ceremony, we will share a communal vegetarian meal called Langar.This is a centuries-old tradition representing inclusion and service to others

7/11: The Western Ceremony & Reception

A Celebration of Our Journey

While the first day honors heritage and spirituality, the Western Ceremony will be a contemporary celebration of our specific story, our friendship, and our future together. This Ceremony will start at 5pm with cocktail hour and reception to follow.

The Atmosphere: This ceremony will be a secular celebration focused entirely on our personal relationship. Short and sweet, expect some stories from our life together, and perhaps a few laughs (or happy tears).

The Focus: This ceremony is about the promises we make to one another as partners and the love we share with all of you.

The Dress Code: The Western Ceremony will be overlooking the ocean, so we'll get to enjoy that ocean breeze! Feel free to wear your reception attire (formal party attire), and whatever you feel your most glamorous self in! (Western, Indian or Indo-Western styles all welcome!)

The Party: Immediately following the ceremony, we’ll move straight into cocktail hour and a reception filled with dinner, drinks, and plenty of dancing to close out the celebration!

A Note on Colors: In many Western weddings, guests avoid wearing white. For the Sikh ceremony, feel free to wear any bright, joyful colors you like.

Logistics & Travel

Where should I park? There is parking at the Gurdwara and valet at both of the Hotels.

Where should we stay? For 7/9, there is a hotel block at the Hilton, a local hotel near the Gurdwara. Or, there are also rooms available at the Hyatt Resort in Huntington Beach if you do not wish to move hotels. For 7/10-7/11, there is a hotel block at the Hyatt Resort in Huntington Beach where we'll be having our western ceremony & reception at. Additional details are listed under our Hotels & Travel section, along with the closest airports.