TT Bureau: Can you describe the unique offerings of Radisson Blu Palace Resort Udaipur?

Poonam Nair: Radisson Blu Palace Resort and Spa, Udaipur, is one of the most versatile properties. We are the ideal choice for destination weddings, but we also organize MICE events and corporate offsites. Simultaneously, we are the go-to choice for leisure and luxury travel as well. 

What makes us unique is our strategic location. The palace offers breathtaking views of Fateh Sagar Lake, and it is near popular tourist attractions, enabling travellers to explore the city conveniently. We are known for the largest pillarless ballrooms in Udaipur, which gives us an edge and makes us the ideal destination for all kinds of events.

Our multipurpose, capacious indoor and outdoor event spaces offer mesmerizing views and serve as the perfect spot for hosting grand sundowner weddings and other related ceremonies. Our world-class facilities and top-notch hospitality complement our customer-centric approach and Atithi Devo Bhava ideology. 

We go the extra mile to understand our customers’ specific requirements and give them nothing but the best. Through our personalized and attention-to-detail approach, we try to surpass our guests’ expectations. Our constant endeavour is to provide them with best-in-class experiences and ensure their stay at the property is not just an event or a trip but a wholesome experience with crafted memories that they can cherish for their lifetime. 

TT Bureau: How has your sales and marketing strategy evolved to cater to the wedding market in recent years?

Poonam Nair: When we established the property, we knew we wanted to tap into diverse markets and simultaneously secure the leading position. Viewing from the business lens, we did not want to limit ourselves to one particular niche. Hence, our focus was the wedding industry, but we continued to explore other avenues as well. This allowed us to host MICE events, corporate events and offsites, prominent industry gatherings, etc. All this while, we ensured that our business development plans and marketing strategies aligned with this vision. Looking back in time, we are happy that this unique approach worked in our favour. 

Today, we identify ourselves as more of a leisure hotel, but the fact of the matter is that destination weddings are our core business model. We host around 70 weddings every year. Because of our reputation as the ultimate wedding venue built over the years, we have had the opportunity to host several influential and celebrity weddings, including Isha Ambani and Anand Piramal’s pre-wedding ceremony and Neil Nitin Mukesh and Rukmani’s wedding. 

Our innovative sales and marketing strategies complement our objectives and growth plans. Our sales team does a fantabulous job and seamlessly manages the business acquisition and development aspect. During peak season, they handle all the bookings. Additionally, they ensure the effective execution of revenue generation practices like demand forecasting, yield management, and dynamic pricing, which leads to optimizing room rates and inventory management.

In addition to targeted marketing initiatives, we follow a robust digital marketing strategy to promote our brand and our comprehensive suite of wedding-related services, share our achievements and milestones with the audiences, and post content to connect with our customers and attract prospective leads.

We leverage the power of social media and content to share recent event glimpses, behind-the-scenes shots, tailored venue set-ups, thematic decor, customer reviews, etc. Small steps like these go a long way in not only boosting brand awareness and building a strong online brand presence but also solidifying our position as a prominent wedding destination in the market. 

TT Bureau: What trends are you currently seeing in destination weddings at Udaipur, and how is Radisson Blu adapting to these trends?

Poonam Nair: Udaipur is well positioned on the global wedding tourism map. Over time, it has become a hotspot for destination weddings.

From 90s superstar Raveena Tandon and businessman Anil Thadani to Bollywood actress Parineeti Chopra and AAP politician Raghav Chadha, people have chosen Udaipur to exchange their vows and celebrate their union with their near and dear ones. This trend has been gaining momentum as more and more people are drawn to the region because of its picturesque lakes, alluring landscapes, majestic palaces, unmatched hospitality, and rich cultural heritage. 

India has always been a big fat wedding market. People want lavish weddings and celebrate their D-day with grandeur and opulence.

With Udaipur growing as a destination wedding spot, we try to stay abreast with the ongoing developments in the wedding and wedding tourism industries. We understand that every wedding is a unique experience, interwoven with the fabric of diversity in cultural traditions and authentic experiences. With the customers’ demands evolving rapidly, we put our best foot forward to fulfil their requirements. We listen patiently to their preferences and then share our suggestions/recommendations.

We also offer exclusive, tailor-made wedding packages to meet their specific demands. Our wedding concierge facility provides relief to couples and host families from the stress of wedding planning and enables them to enjoy the festivities. Value-added services like romantic candlelight dinner set-ups, royal welcome, butler services, royal backdrops, etc., further help us provide superior experiences to couples and guests. 

Moreover, our dedicated customer service team is there to assist the couple and their families at every step. The staff makes concerted efforts to transform every wedding-related ceremony into an exquisite, memorable experience.

Whether it is a thematic event, incorporating personal memories and moments of couples in the decor, a lavish menu spread comprising a variety of global culinary delights and authentic local cuisines, catering to special requests like sourcing a specific variety of flowers, arranging artist performances, or curating interactive experiences for guests, we ensure the arrangements are superior, regal, and mesmerizing that mirror the couple’s vision of their dream wedding. 

TT Bureau: Could you share a memorable wedding event hosted at Radisson Blu Palace Resort and what made it special?

Poonam Nair: Honestly, every wedding that we host is a different experience altogether. Helping couples transform their dream weddings into reality is pure bliss. The peace and solace that we find in being a part of their celebration as the couples tie the knot can only be felt and can’t be described in words. By God’s grace, we have gotten the opportunity to host several high-end and celebrity weddings, including Isha Ambani and Anand Piramal’s pre-wedding ceremony and Neil Nitin Mukesh and Rukmani’s wedding. 

To share an instance, for a recent wedding that we organized, the couple requested a traditional wedding with contemporary elements and experiences. We drew inspiration for the decor from our rich cultural heritage. The hues were the classic combination of maroon and gold to showcase the true essence of royalty and elegance. We also set up low seated thaats along with majestic velvet couches.

Additionally, we incorporated elements in catering like requesting local females to make live phulkas, kulhad chai walas and chaach walas to serve fresh beverages the traditional way. The meals were prepared and served in premium earthenware to enhance guests’ regional culinary experiences.

Additionally, we also tied up with local artists and performers for entertainment performances during the evenings to add to the festivities with vibrant folk performances and puppet and magic shows. Another instance is the NRI Punjabi wedding that we hosted, most attendees were from Australia and the US, the entire look and feel of the set-up were so divine they had converted the place into a mini Gurudwara. It was surreal to witness a proper Sikh wedding. So yes, we have many such instances of memorable weddings.

TT Bureau: What role does customer feedback play in shaping your sales strategies?

Poonam Nair: Customer-centricity forms the very core of our operations. Their wish is our command, and we are willing to go above and beyond to meet their demands. This is reflected in our best-in-class hospitality, our amicable staff, and a wide array of palatial services. We first listen to their requirements and requests and give our recommendations accordingly.

We strongly believe that customer satisfaction and engagement are crucial parameters for success. Hence, their feedback is integral to shaping our sales strategies and enhancing our customer servicing approach.

This is why, we have a dedicated section on the website wherein our valuable customers can share their feedback on our overall arrangements, guest experiences, and even our tech platforms. In most cases, the guests are more than happy to share one-on-one feedback during their stay. Otherwise, we get feedback forms and surveys filled out by them later. The idea is to introduce channels that help us better evaluate our services so that we can improve and give our customers nothing but the best-in-class services and unparalleled hospitality.

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Karnataka’s traditional jewellery is not just beautiful; it’s a symbol of the region’s long history and creativity. Known for detailed designs that never go out of style,  Karnataka’s jewellery includes everything from the grand ‘Mangalorean Bunt’ necklaces to the pretty ‘Kasu Malai’ chains. Each of these traditional gold jewellery designs tells a story from the past, showing what’s important to the culture.

These pieces are made using old methods that have been taught from one generation to the next. They represent wealth, pride, and who people are in Karnataka, far beyond being mere accessories. This jewellery captures the heart of traditional Indian jewellery and highlights the skill of local artists, making it special for both those who know a lot about jewellery and those who are just starting to learn in Bengaluru Karnataka’s rich centres of jewellery making/.

For example, a bride from the Mangalore Bunt community treasures her gold jewellery set, which includes various necklaces and ‘balais’ (bangles). These items are carefully made with designs that take inspiration from nature and include symbols that are meant to bring good luck to the bride as she starts a new part of her life.

Here’s a look at the jewellery that celebrates Karnataka’s traditions:

Kasina Sara and Misri Mala

The Kasina Sara is a necklace made from coins, and the Misiri Mala is a similar coin necklace but with a stamp or embossing of Lakshmi on it. This type of necklace is a staple in South Indian jewellery collections and goes by different names in various states. In Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, it’s called Kasulaperu; in Tamil Nadu, it’s known as Kasumalai; and in Kerala, people refer to it as Kasumala.

Havalakki Sara

The Havalakki Sara, also known as Avalakki Sara, is a traditional South Indian necklace designed to resemble flattened rice or poha. It’s a popular piece of wedding jewellery among brides in South Karnataka. This necklace is not just famous in Karnataka but also in other states. In Maharashtra, it’s referred to as Poha Haar, and in Kerala, it goes by the name Avilmala. It’s a cherished part of traditional jewellery collections, especially for Kannadiga brides.

Mallige sara/Mallimoggu Sara

The Mallige Sara, also called Mallimoggu Sara, is a necklace designed to look like jasmine buds. It can be made of plain gold or decorated with precious stones such as rubies, emeralds, and diamonds. In Kerala, this necklace is known as Mullamottu Mala.

Lakshmi Sara

The Lakshmi Sara is a special necklace that brides in Karnataka wear to represent and seek the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi for their new life. It comes in different styles, including a Lakshmi choker, a long Lakshmi haaram, and a Lakshmi Kasina Sara. This necklace is a key piece in a traditional Karnataka bridal collection. In other states, it’s known by names like Lakshmi Mala, Lakshmi Malai, and Lakshmi Haar.

Kokkethathi Necklace

Kokkethathi is a traditional bridal necklace, featuring a pendant shaped like a half-moon, worn by Coorgi or Kodava brides. This distinct necklace, also known as Kokkethathi, is deeply embedded in the rich and ritualistic traditions of Coorgi jewellery, making it a popular choice among brides from other Kannadiga communities as well.

Pavan Sara

The Pavan Sara is a necklace made up of coin-shaped trinkets arranged in a specific pattern. This style of necklace is also well-liked in Kerala, where it’s known as Panamala. Nowadays, there are many modern designs and arrangements, but the traditional Pavan Sara remains a favourite among Kannadiga brides and women.

Gilola Sara

Gili Ole refers to earrings adorned with rubies and pearls, arranged to depict parrots, complemented by three jhumka (bell-shaped) danglers. Matching these earrings, the Gilola Sara is a necklace richly embellished with precious stones and pearls, also fashioned in the shape of parrots.

This distinctive set of necklaces and earrings captures the essence of traditional Karnataka culture. In Kannada, ‘Gili’ translates to ‘parrot,’ and ‘Ole’ signifies ‘danglers,’ making Gili Ole synonymous with parrot danglers.

Tholu Bandhi

Tholu Bandhi is an ornate forearm bracelet cherished by Karnataka women and traditionally worn on special occasions. This exquisite piece features a central peacock motif, often accompanied by figures of gods, enhancing its spiritual and aesthetic appeal. 

Extending from both ends of the central design, chains lead to a secure locking mechanism, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit. Its intricate craftsmanship and symbolic design make it a staple of ceremonial attire.

Entele Sara

The Entele Sara is a precious piece of heritage jewellery that holds a special place in the hearts of brides from South Karnataka, especially among those belonging to the Tuluva, Bunt, or Mangalorean communities. This beautiful necklace is designed with several layers of gold chains, giving it a rich and elegant look.

It’s a symbol of tradition and is cherished on special occasions like weddings. In the northern parts of India, a necklace with a similar layered design is known as a Rani Haar, which translates to “queen’s necklace,” highlighting its regal charm.

Kokkethathi

Kokkethathi, characterized by its unique half-moon-shaped pendant that hangs on a necklace, is a traditional piece of bridal jewellery cherished by Coorgi or Kodava brides. Known by the same name, Kokkethathi, this necklace embodies the rich and ritualistic traditions of Coorgi jewellery design, making it a sought-after choice among brides from other Kannadiga communities as well.

Kukkumidi Sara

The Kukkumudi Sara is a quintessential piece of traditional Karnataka jewellery, revered for its unique design and cultural significance. This exquisite necklace is crafted with intricate detailing, often featuring a blend of vibrant colours and motifs that reflect the rich heritage of the region. Symbolizing beauty and tradition, the Kukkumudi Sara is a cherished adornment among women, especially during festive occasions and weddings, adding a touch of elegance and tradition to their attire.

Muthina Vole Jhimiki

The Muthina Vole Jhimiki is an emblematic traditional piece of Karnataka jewellery, distinguished by its elaborate craftsmanship. These are ornate earrings made with pearls (muthu means pearl in Kannada), often embellished with gold and precious stones to create intricate designs. Symbolic of elegance and sophistication, the Muthina Vole Jhimiki is a favoured accessory for women in Karnataka, adorning their ears during weddings, festivals, and other auspicious occasions, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Karthamani Pathak

The Karthamani Pathak stands as a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of Karnataka, embodying the traditional jewellery craftsmanship of the region. This venerable piece, often worn around the waist, is meticulously crafted from gold and adorned with intricate designs and precious stones. Serving both as a symbol of marital status and a piece of ceremonial adornment, the Karthamani Pathak is cherished by women, especially during significant events like weddings and religious ceremonies.

Jadaenagara

Jadaenagara is a traditional piece of Karnataka jewellery that plays a crucial role in the bridal ensemble. This ornamental hair accessory is designed to adorn the braids of brides, adding a majestic touch to their overall appearance. Crafted with gold and often embellished with colourful gemstones, Jadaenagara reflects the craftsmanship and cultural heritage of Karnataka. It symbolizes beauty and grace, making it an essential element of the bridal trousseau in Karnataka weddings.

Guruvina Kada

Guruvina Kada is a bracelet that holds deep cultural significance. Crafted with precision and care, this gold bangle is often intricately designed, featuring symbols and motifs that pay homage to spiritual and natural elements. It’s not just a piece of jewellery; it’s a wearable symbol of respect and devotion, reflecting the rich traditions and values of Karnataka. Worn by both men and women, Guruvina Kada is a cherished emblem of heritage and faith.

Kasina Bale

Kasina Bale is renowned for its elegant and timeless design. These are gold bangles that embody the essence of Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage, often intricately crafted with exquisite patterns and sometimes studded with precious stones. Kasina Bale is a symbol of prosperity and grace, worn by women as a mark of their cultural identity and during important life events, making it a treasured adornment in Karnataka’s traditional attire.

Mooguthi

This gold nose piece comes in various designs, from understated studs to ornate versions decorated with gems. More than just a decorative item, Mooguthi signifies femininity and, often, marital status, making it a cherished symbol across generations of women. It holds a special place in their traditional wardrobe, reflecting their heritage and identity.

Padasara

Typically worn around the ankles, this ornamental piece beautifully captures the essence of Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage through its intricate gold craftsmanship. Designed to chime melodically with every step, Padasara is not only a symbol of elegance and grace but also an auditory delight, adding a rhythmic beauty to the wearer’s presence. It’s a cherished accessory, especially during festive and ceremonial occasions.

These timeless pieces, from elegant bangles to intricate nose rings, not only adorn but also celebrate Karnataka’s traditions, making them cherished heirlooms that connect generations and embody the spirit of its people.

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Although the different ceremonies and traditions before, during, and after the wedding are extremely elaborate, the Kumaoni or Garhwali weddings of the ethnic communities in Uttarakhand are very simple.

These ceremonies capture the essence of the state‘s rich cultural fabric, melding both simplicity and grandeur in a breathtaking tableau. Whether it’s a Kumaoni or Garhwali wedding, representing the major ethnic communities of Uttarakhand, the approach to marital bliss is elegantly straightforward, yet steeped in elaborate customs and traditions.

From pre-wedding rituals to post-wedding celebrations, each aspect is meticulously curated, reflecting a lifestyle deeply rooted in heritage and community values. So come, explore the lesser-known, but profoundly beautiful, nuptial practices of Uttarakhand—a symphony of culture, love, and unity.

Pre-Wedding Rituals

Engagement

Kumaoni marriages, like other weddings, include an engagement ritual that is considerably different from others. Instead of the bride and groom, the dads of the soon-to-be-married pair exchange rings.

Mehendi ceremony

The Mehendi ceremony, in which henna is applied on the bride’s hands and feet, follows the engagement. Both parties participate in the Mehendi ritual. The bride has a composed entirely henna pattern applied to her hands, arms, and feet. The groom opts for a basic yet understated henna design that adorns his hands.

Wedding Rituals

Ganesh Puja

Even before the start of the wedding festivities, the bride and groom’s families appeal to Lord Ganesha for the ceremonies to be performed without any difficulties. The Ganesh me doob dharan is the name for this. Following that, the proper rites begin. After aabdev purvanga, ganesh puja, matrika puja, nandishradh, punanahavachan, kalash sthapan, and Navagraha pooja, the main lamp, or pradhaan diya, is lit.

In addition to these ceremonies, the bride and groom are smeared with turmeric or haldi by family members, and then they take a ceremonial bath. A bracelet in the shape of a little bale is wrapped around the hands of the woman, with betelnut and coins inserted in a yellow-coloured piece of cloth.

Suwal Pathai

This one-of-a-kind Kumaoni wedding tradition involves kneading wheat flour into dough and rolling it into circles. After immersing it in dry flour, it is dried in the sun. They are deep-fried after drying and presented to the gods as a Prasada.

Duliagarh

Once the groom’s party arrives at the bride’s door in the evening, unmarried girls greet them with pots full of water or kalash on their heads. The groom is carried and taken to the courtyard’s Dhuliarghay chauki, which is built of red clay and biswar rice flour. Numerous symbols such as kamal, kalash, shankh, chakra, and gada are included in this geometrical pattern.

Two chaukis (wooden stools) are set on top of this. The groom and the priest are expected to stand respectfully on these chaukis. The groom, or var, is revered as a manifestation of Vishnu. The daughter’s father applies tilak and distributes gifts like as money and clothes after cleaning the feet of var and aacharya.

Varmaala

This is essentially a garlands-exchanging ceremony that takes place after Duliagarh, when the groom advances to the centre stage. The bride joins him immediately after he takes his seat. The bride and groom’s family and a few close friends also join them on stage for this momentous occasion. The couple exchanges the Jai Mala, and the crowd applauds them with a round of applause, as well as a few pleasant jokes and giggles.

Kanyadaan

After the social formalities are completed, the priest takes over and performs a number of sacred rituals and ceremonies as prescribed by the ‘lagna’ (the positioning of the stars according to the horoscope of the bride and groom). This ceremony normally lasts a few hours and lasts all night until morning.

The bride’s father and mother next perform the emotive and most essential ritual, the ‘Kanyadaan.’ On this day, the bride’s parents conduct a fast. Kanyadaan is regarded as the most significant donation that anyone can give. The bride becomes a lifelong member of the groom’s family and his better half after performing the ritual.

Saptapadi

The bride and groom make seven rounds around the holy fire as a symbol of their devotion to one other in this ritual. To demonstrate their unity, the husband leads the bride in four rounds around the sacred fire, and then the bride takes over and does three circles. The bride and groom are pronounced husband and wife when this procedure is completed.

Vidai

Finally, the Vidai ritual takes place, during which the bride’s family bids their precious daughter farewell. The bride, as well as her family and friends, are feeling mixed emotions as she prepares to go to her husband’s house and leave her parents behind.

Post-Wedding Rituals

The Bride’s Welcome and Formal Introduction – The bride is greeted by her mother-in-law or the groom’s elder sister when she arrives at the groom’s house. All members of the family and their relatives are properly introduced to the new bride. Also, she is given an outline of her upcoming role and obligations.

After all of these procedures and rituals are accomplished, the bride and other female family members proceed to a water spring (called naula or dhara) bearing an urn of water or kalash on their heads. She then submerges in the water all of the things used in the puja rites.

Wedding Attire

A dhoti-kurta, sherwani, or formal suit is suitable for the groom’s attire.

The traditional Kumaoni or Garhwali bride would wear a traditional ‘Ghagri,’ which is a skirt-like garment similar to the ghaghra, along with a ‘choli,’ (the blouse), and a traditional ‘Pichora,’ which is also known as ‘Rangwali,’ and is a traditional ‘odhni,’ or veil, that is accessorised with silver and gold tatting.

The less traditional Uttarakhand bride, on the other hand, prefers to wear a saree instead of the ghagri-pichora.

Traditional Wedding Food

In a traditional Uttarakhand Wedding, the food served reflects the rich culinary heritage of the region. A simple yet delicious feast that balances both flavour and nutrition, the menu often features local and seasonal ingredients. Among the must-try dishes are ‘Aloo Ke Gutke,’ a spicy potato preparation, and ‘Gahat Ki Dal,’ a unique lentil dish often served with rice. No meal is complete without ‘Kumaoni Raita,’ a yoghurt-based accompaniment flavoured with turmeric and mustard. ‘Jhangora Ki Kheer,’ a dessert made from a local variety of millet, provides a sweet ending to the lavish spread.

For those with a taste for non-vegetarian cuisine, ‘Kumaoni Chicken Curry’ is often the star of the show. This culinary repertoire not only tantalizes the taste buds but also provides a window into the rich, agrarian lifestyle that defines Uttarakhand. It’s a feast that complements the grandeur of the wedding rituals, adding another layer of cultural richness to these extraordinary celebrations.

Garhwali and Kumaoni cuisines, two of Uttarakhand’s primary regions, dominate the traditional wedding cuisine. Simple, locally grown ingredients are used in the meals, which are not overpowered by complicated spices. Lentils are used in some of Uttarakhand’s most famous meals, which are cooked over low heat.

Kafuli

Kafuli is a popular Uttarakhand dish made with spinach and fenugreek leaves. This unusual cuisine is served with hot steaming rice and cooked in an iron kadhai.

Phaanu

Phaanu is a meal that is popular in Uttarakhand’s Garhwal region. It’s a little tricky to make because it’s produced by combining lentils of various sorts that have been soaked in water overnight. It’s a soupy dish that’s usually served with rice.

Kandalee Ka Saag

Kandalee Ka Saag is a quintessential dish that graces the tables at traditional Uttarakhand weddings. Made from a unique variety of leafy greens native to the Himalayan region, this dish is a testament to the state’s rich biodiversity. Delicately spiced and slow-cooked to perfection, Kandalee Ka Saag is not just a culinary delight but also a symbol of the local culture.

Dubuk

Dubuk, hailed as one of Uttarakhand’s best meals, enchants diners with its incomparable flavour. It’s a Dal recipe that’s best eaten with rice. You might be wondering what makes a simple Dal dish so remarkable. This comforting stew-like concoction is made primarily from lentils and local beans, infused with an array of indigenous spices and herbs. Slow-cooked to rich, earthy perfection, Dubuk is not just a meal but an experience that speaks to the region’s deep-rooted connection to the land. It is often served with rice or roti and embodies the warm, homely hospitality that Uttarakhand is renowned for.

Jhangora Ki Kheer

This is one of Uttarakhand’s most well-known sweet dishes. Made from Jhangora, a type of barnyard millet that is indigenous to the region, this kheer is a creamy, rich delicacy that’s steeped in cultural significance. Infused with aromatic cardamom and often garnished with a sprinkle of chopped nuts, it serves as the perfect conclusion to a hearty meal.

Its velvety texture and subtly sweet flavour make Jhangora Ki Kheer not just a dessert, but a celebration of Uttarakhand’s agricultural heritage and culinary ingenuity.

Enchanting World of Traditional Uttarakhand Weddings

The nuanced rituals continue to breathe life into these ceremonies. The pre-wedding festivities begin with ‘Ganesh Puja,’ invoking blessings for a new beginning. The main wedding ceremony features the ‘Pheras,’ where the couple circles the holy fire seven times, each round signifying a unique marital vow.

Interestingly, even the post-wedding customs, like ‘Bidai’ and ‘Gruh Pravesh,’ serve as a poetic conclusion to the nuptial chapter, each symbolizing a transition into new roles and responsibilities. The wedding ceremony remains a spiritual and cultural odyssey that cements the sanctity of marriage while celebrating the vibrant hues of Uttarakhand’s heritage.

The traditional Uttarakhand wedding goes beyond an event to a multi-generational celebration that brings families, communities, and even entire villages together. It encapsulates a unique blend of simplicity and profundity, making it an emblematic representation of Uttarakhand’s diverse yet unified cultural tapestry.

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IHG Hotels & Resorts is here to make “beautiful wedding” dreams come true with a special bundle offer to help couples make the most of this momentous occasion in their lives when they are ready to say yes.

Elaborate events have long been a cornerstone of the wedding industry in India, guests and wedding planners alike have worked hard to up the wow factor with extravagant decorations, sumptuous menus, and long guest lists. 

Under the current circumstances and with health and safety in mind, guests have been taking a less traditional approach. Families and couples are now looking at organizing more intimate weddings and special occasions in accordance with the local government guidelines.

IHG Hotels & Resorts select venues across brands including InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, and Holiday Inn hotels in India, Nepal, and Bangladesh have been adapted to create bespoke experiences, making them a perfect match for couples looking to host intimate and beautiful wedding events. 

IHG’s team of professional event specialists have customised their venues and services to cater to smaller yet glamourous or one-of-a-kind events with a relentless focus on health and safety so guests can leave every worry behind.IHG Hotels & Resorts has put together a special offer available from 1 March until 30 April 2021, for weddings from 1 May 2021 with suite upgrades, Rewards points, rebates, stay-vouchers, in-room dining/laundry services discounts and much more!

With smaller weddings, guests who want to include a larger number of people in their special occasions are finding alternate and innovative solutions to do so. 

Splitting the invitee list based on the type of ceremony is a popular option – many guests are choosing to invite younger family members or friends for pre-wedding celebrations and the elders for the main wedding event, while others are hosting ‘virtual weddings’, live streaming the ceremony for families and friends based in different parts of the country, and the globe.

IHG has enhanced the experience for its hotel guests, by redefining cleanliness and supporting guests’ personal wellbeing throughout their event and stay at the hotel. Using new, scientific protocols and service measures, partnering with industry-leading experts Cleveland Clinic, Ecolab, and Diversey, and launching a global IHG Clean Promise, these strengthened measures are giving guests greater confidence and hotel teams the protection needed.

For all social events, teams across IHG hotels ensure that every touchpoint is sanitized and proper hygiene is maintained across all operations, throughout the event. Hotels are using technology where it can make a difference. This includes deploying enhanced, highly visible, and more frequent cleaning measures, and applying new standards and service approach to food and beverages as well.

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