“Thanks so much and this goes without saying but I LOVE The Sari-Clad Bride—definitely a part of my daily routine…twice on Fridays.”

Hi Neetu,
First of all, congratulations on your upcoming wedding! Online shopping used to be a very scary thing but nowadays a lot of brides are depending on online stores with good reputations for their wedding needs! Here are some quick thoughts on our favorite (including Benzer World!) e-commerce wedding shops that ship world-wide.

BARGELLO
Bargello is one of our favorite sites for desi fashion simply because there is so much to choose from! They have everything from lehengas to salwar kameezes to saris to groom’s sherwanis to jewelry, etc—and the best part is that they have tons of color and style options! Bargello has customer reps all over the world including New York, Australia, U.K, etc. If you’re looking for North Indian, Punjabi, and Pakistani bridalwear, Bargello will definitely meet your needs. The website recommends ordering bridal items 25-50 days before your wedding event.

BENZER WORLD
Ahh, Benzer World—how we swoon over you. One of the oldest brands in India, their quality is pretty much guaranteed. Benzer World’s bridal collections are eagerly anticipated by the South Asian fashion world and they always produce outstanding designs every season. We would definitely recommend shopping here (If the price points meet your budget), since its street-store to online store reputation precedes itself!

ART KARAT
Our absolutely favorite place to oogle at bridal jewelry online. We recently got their catalogue via snail mail and wanted every.single.damn.piece. Kundans, pearls, emeralds, antique gold—you name it. They ship worldwide and offer a 100% money back guarantee if you’re not satisfied within the first 30 days of your purchase. Check out their bridal studio and don’t forget to sign up for their catalog for bridal look inspiration!

COUTURE RANI
This is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for straight-off-the-runway Indian couture. Couture Rani carries the best in designer-wear such as Ritu Kumar and Varun Bahl.

ANGARKH
A cross between Benzer World and Bargello, Angarkh.com is our newest find in e-commerce South Asian wear. Look for a multitude of Desi looks from trendy to traditional. They ship worldwide and have great sales.

Honeymooners in Ko Phi Phi, Thailand

Oo La La! Hotel De La Piaux in Siem Riep, Cambodia

Beautifying each other is what true love is all about!

Playing with Elephants in Chiang Mai, Thailand

A blissfully happy bride!

Lady Temple in Cambodia

Lunchin’ at Bangkok Airport. This bride is a serious foodie!

Had an amazing honeymoon of your own? Tell us! Share your dreamy romance with us at thesaricladbride@gmail.com.

Who are you?
Deepa Netto
deepanetto.com
+91 9773924078

What do you do?
I am a contemporary wedding photographer.

Where are you based?
I am based in the financial city of India–Mumbai–but I shoot weddinsg all across the globe.

When and How did you get started in the South Asian wedding industry?
I love to observe people. A friend of mine who is a wedding photographer asked me to second shoot with him. The images of the very first wedding I shot went on to be one of the top 5 nominees for the Kodak ‘Wedding Photographer of the Year’ contest. That’s what led me to become a wedding photographer.

Why do you do what you do?
I love the entire package of emotion and drama, with a tinge of glamour and more than anything I am a big sucker for romance. A wedding is a package of all these things and hence, I love documenting the special day in the lives of my clients.

Do you work exclusively on South Asian weddings?
Since I am based in Mumbai most of my clients are South Asian but I cater to all types of weddings.

Describe some of your inspirations.
I derive my inspiration from fashion magazines: Cosmopolitan, Vogue etc. I have a pile of them from which I draw inspiration on lighting and poses. I also follow a few photographers whose work have helped shape my vision to shoot weddings.

What are some mistakes you see most South Asian brides (and families) make?
The number 1 mistake I see is people settle for a below-average photographer but they spend top money on décor, food, the dress, invitations, etc. If there are no good photographs to go back and remember all the stuff u spent money on; and the moments and emotions are not captured then it will be a disappointment for life. I have had heard many people say that they cringe to open their wedding album and look at the horrible photos.

Do you only cater to certain budgets only?
We cater to all. Most of my clients have an elite taste for photography and are people who realize the importance to have good photographs of their wedding day. I have shot weddings in palaces and in the backyard of the house.

How would you describe your working style?
I like to blend in with the family while I shoot and by the end of the wedding, the  couple and my family are like my friends. Once they get to know me they tend to forget that I have a camera in hand and they don’t freeze up.

What’s your number one wedding tip?
Couples should enjoy their wedding day, stop fretting over the smudged mascara, broken nail or that small curry stain on your dress, ebecause this is just one day which you would want to have filled with only good memories of, decades later.

Niki:

Hello, I am writing you from Vancouver, Canada. I just recently got engaged to a man from France. We are planning a Hindu ceremony for this summer close to his hometown in the south of France. I am finding many obstacles in arranging a Hindu ceremony from so far away and in an area that does not have a large Indian population. The first hurdle that we have encountered is trying to find a Pundit (Hindu Priest) to perform the ceremony. So far, the only Pundit that we have found lives in Germany. Do you have any ideas? Thank you for your time and any assistance you can give!

Dear Niki,

First of all, Congratulations!! The Sari-Clad Bride is always excited to hear about new couples tying the knot! Thank you for contacting us and we would definitely like to help you jump over those hurdles of planning a wedding from so far away. We do have some ideas that may help you. First of all, we would like to inform you about the Hindu temple in Paris listed below:

This is one of the larger temples in Paris. Please contact the temple for their Pundit availability. I am sure it will be cheaper for them to travel within France rather than bringing someone from outside the country.

Since the distance and expenses are usually the big issues with planning a destination wedding, the Sari-Clad Bride also suggests you contact local wedding planners in France to help you with finding a pundit as well as other necessities locally. Remember, a planner provides all types of service and you can pick and choose what you need – you don’t have to spend a lot of money on having a planner plan your whole wedding but he/she can help you with planning certain aspects of the wedding. Some planners we recommend are:

Additionally, if you need to fly someone in and flights are cheaper from England to France than from Germany, below is the information of a great priest from UK who does travel for weddings depending on availibility:

Keep checking us out as we will soon bring you vendor spotlights on some of these contacts that may help you make a wiser choice!

Wadi Rum, Jordan

I don’t know about you ladies but sometimes the Sari-Clad Bride wishes to be different. Yes, we are always up for a honeymoon getaway at the beach, but the complete opposite can be quite fun! The Sari-Clad Bride  recently had the opportunity to go to Wadi Rum, Jordan – a desert valley. Although it wasn’t for a honeymoon, we only wish to share with you how beautiful and romantic a desert can be! Yes, that’s right! Honeymoon at the desert can be an exquisite experience!

Wadi Rum is about 4 to 5 hours from Amman – the capital of Jordan. If you book ahead, transportation via car can be arranged and will be quite cheap compared to getting something on the spot. At the valley, you can arrange to stay at Bedouin tents set up by the locals. They provide breakfast, lunch and dinner, your own sleeping tents, entertainment and transportation with a local tour guide to show you around the desert. You can choose to go with a group but I suggest getting a personal tour guide as it will make your trip that much more romantic.

Bedouin tents

Wadi Rum is a stunning desert valley!

Wadi Rum, Jordan

The granite and sandstones are weathered into beautiful monuments and the multicolor sand and valley will take your breath away!

Wadi Rum, Jordan

Wadi Rum, Jordan

Just imagine you and your significant other – alone together forever! No one around; not a sound; just the whistling of the wind, light breeze in your hair and the sun in your face!

Wadi Rum, Jordan

Your tour guide/driver will leave you alone if that is what you would like!

Camel rides

You can choose to trek, hike or rock-climb. There are also camel and horse safaris available as well as jeep tours.

Wadi Rum, Jordan

The desert is completely transformed at night! You cannot capture it in snapshots. You can only embrace it with your memory which makes the trip that much more unique – just what a honeymoon should be!

Bedouin music by camp fire

Sitting by the camp fire while enjoying traditional Bedouin music under the stars is like a totally unusual experience!

Bedouin food

Traditional Bedouin tea and food cooked specially in small underground stone ovens have exceptional taste uncommon anywhere else!

I suggest going for a couple of days near the end of a lunar cycle. That way, you will be able to experience a moonlit desert under a full moon as well as total darkness under a thousand stars!

Dead Sea, Jordan

If you do choose to stay in Jordan for more than a few days and you would like a change of scenario, you can always check out Petra which is on the way from Wadi Rum to Amman. Petra is a historical and archaeological city chosen to be one of the new Seven Wonders of the World in 2007! Another destination to stop by would be the Dead Sea resort – you may not miss the beach after all!

Dead Sea, Jordan

Dead Sea, Jordan

Quick tips: Pack a hat or umbrella and sunscreen. The desert can get really hot during the day! Pack some warm clothes as it can get really cold at night! Pack a beach towel or mat in case you want to sunbathe or just sit and enjoy the scenerio somewhere outside of the tent area. Wet-ones and Purell will come in very handy. I suggest going in the fall or spring since the weather is not as harsh as in the summer or winter and the heat and cold are both bearable. Although, there is a different kind of fun in snuggling up with your hubby on a cold winter night under the stars in the desert valley of Wadi Rum!

Christian Louboutin Jeweled Slingback

Hi ladies! Our last shoe post was all about comfort and style for the practical bride. The Sari-Clad Bride has already given you advice on what you should look for in bridal shoes if you love your feet more than your shoes. But we have to say that if there can be exceptions to the Octet rule of atomic bonding, there are exceptions to our rules as well. Plus, our readers have spoken! You wanted to know about the lavish and just plain outrageous (in a good way of course!) styles for bridal shoes which will make your guests do a double-take at your feet! So here are some of those exceptional exceptions. We do have to warn you: such envious action does come at a price!

If you haven’t  heard of Andrew Gn yet, these shoes will definitely make you want to find out more! The Kaki Stone-Embellished Sandals ($800.00) are just gorgeous and perfect if you have some green in your bridal sari or lehenga or in your wedding color scheme. The ankle strap is not cuffed around the ankle but a wide oval shaped strap which allows room for your anklet (nupur/payaal). But with such embellishments on your shoes, who needs anklets? You may also choose to wear this for your mehndi/henna celebration, if you plan on wearing green.

Andrew Gn Stone Embellished Sandal

The Manolo Blahnik Jeweled Satin D’Orsay Sandals ($715.00) are classic for weddings whether American or South Asian. A lot of modern brides are choosing white, beige, silver, or dull gold bridal wear nowadays and these are just what we recommend for you. If you look around a little bit, you may find them in other colors to match your style as well.

Manolo Blahnik Jeweled D'Orsay

These Miu Miu Alba Jeweled Sandals ($750.00) are a beautiful gold-tone leather with a bejeweled front to fall in love with. Given that most South Asian brides wear gold or gold-tone jewelry, you can totally pull these off with any color bridal wear. Yes, the ankle straps go against our advice, but they are necessary to hold these bad-ass high heels in place.

Miu Miu Jeweled Sandal

Leave it to Christian Louboutin to come up with something so exquisite for your feet! The Sari-Clad Bride absolutely LOVES these Jeweled Platform Slingbacks ($2,830.00)! (note the capitalized love and exclamation point) The allover multicolor bejeweled design makes these shoes as festive as shoes can be in order to represent the festive South Asian weddings. Don’t worry about matching them to your bridal wear – these girls will go with just about anything.

Christian Louboutin Jeweled Slingback

Want to know what shoes we would recommend for you? Whether you are the bride-to-be or just a wedding attendee, leave a comment or email us with your shoe necessities and budget, and we will find what you are looking for!

What you should look for while shopping for comfy bridal shoes:

• A medium heel: Perfect for adding a few inches to your height without overwhelming you.

• A cone-shaped heel: Provides more support than pencil heels.

• The slip-on style: For easy access, since various South Asian wedding rituals require the bride to put her shoes on and off.

• Avoid ankle straps: As we usually like to wear anklets (nupur/payalias), shoes with ankle straps may get in the way.

• Open toe/open front: Makes your feet look less official and more fun and flirty. Not to mention,      you don’t want to cover the gorgeous henna/mehndi designs!

• Bejeweled front: With all the decorative clothes and jewelry to wear, an ornamental touch in the front is more than enough to make a fashion statement.

www.piperlime.com

The Bandolino Quitarah evening sandals ($34.99) are a good example of all of the above. Note the medium cone-shaped heel and the jeweled details on the top – this may not be something right out of Vogue, but it will definitely work with a bridal sari or lehenga. We love is that it’s also leather!

www.piperlime.com

If you need a little support in the back to hold your shoes in place, Caparros Drew silk evening sandals ($19.97) are the type you should go for. The slingback style is better than a full on ankle strap and won’t get in the way of your anklet. We love the simplicity of the shoe and you can’t beat the price!

www.nordstrom.com

These Athena Alexander ‘Abel’ sandals ($74.95) have the rhinestone-studded ornament in the front which are perfect for showing off under your elaborate wedding lehenga or sari. We love the openness of the shoe which also allows us to show off the mehndi/henna design on our feet!

www.nordstrom.com

The J. Renee ‘Maryanne’ slingback shoes ($49.90) are the perfect red to match your sari or lehenga (comes in 6 other colors as well including gold and silver). It may not be as embellished in the front but the bright bold color totally makes up for it!

The Sari-Clad Bride had the opportunity to explore all of Tokyo’s Treasures March 2008 and enjoyed Japan thoroughly.  The following places are must see locations while in Japan:

• Kamakura located in Kanagawa is a city approximately 31 miles south west of Tokyo that houses shrines and Buddhist temples dating to approximately 1200 years back.  One of these is that of Amida Buddha (pictured below).  This amazing structure is a major tourist attraction and one that you should not miss while visiting Japan.  The Sari-Clad Bride loved the historical site, but would also recommend walking up and down the streets near the statue of Amida Buddha.  The streets leading up to the shrine are composed of local trinkets available for purchase such as samurai swords, decorations for the home, along with souvenirs.  Also, do not miss out on trying the local food on the streets–especially the delicious rice cakes!

Kamakura

Kamakura

• The Tokyo Tower, the tallest structure in Japan, is one of the must sees that provides a spectacular view of Tokyo.   Inspired by the Eiffel Tower, the Toyko Tower was built in 1958 and interestingly enough is important (like its counterpart the Eiffel Tower) in scenes that depict Tokyo in anime, cartoons, and movies in Japan.  The views from the Tokyo Tower were amazing and The Sari-Clad Bride recommends that this be your first venture into Tokyo!  Also, while at the Tokyo Tower, try the delicious crepes by the entrance!

View from Tokyo Tower

Tokyo Tower

• Mount Fuji, the highest point in Japan is one of the world’s most famous mountains.  A must-see for tourists, Mount Fuji is approximately a two hour drive from Tokyo.  The breathtaking view of Mount Fuji is definitely worth the long drive! However, prior to going to Mount Fuji, The Sari-Clad Bride recommends that you look up weather reports as the roads to Mount Fuji are often times closed due to weather conditions.

Mt Fuji

• Interested in fashion? Then, Shibuya is the place for you! Shibuya, famous for its fashion is generally the go-to place for young men and women.  With global chains such as Chanel, Gucci, Dior, etc., Shibuya provides the perfect escape to do a little bit of luxury shopping on your honeymoon!  Also, Shibuya has the famous “scramble crossroads” which lets pedestrians cross from all directions and is mounted by large television screens on the the buildings.

Japanese Fashion

Scramble Crossroads

• Harajuku, the street fashion, is another great location for fashion lovers to visit in Tokyo during their honeymoon.  While in Harajuku, you will be able to see young people dressed in a variety of styles that creates a great visual display of the eccentric style of Tokyo.  The shops and stores that are aligned along Harajuku are extremely affordable and sell unique street fashion clothes, however, there are also luxury designers such as Louis Vuitton in Harajuku.  Harajuku becomes the place to hang out on weekends and thousands of people begin to crowd the streets.  As a precaution, The Sari-Clad Bride would like to warn newlyweds of potential stampedes that occur on the street!

• Roppongi Hills, in essence the “Beverly Hills” of Tokyo, Roppongi Hills provides tourists with upscale shopping areas, restaurants, and a great night life.  If you are newlyweds that like to party, this is definitely the place for you!

Shopping Center in Roppongi Hills

• Local food: If you are a sushi lover or just love Japanese food in general–eating out in Japan is amazing! Although it becomes difficult to order food as waiters generally do not speak English, be sure to try the local food instead of fast food chains.  You will not be disappointed!

Making Rice Cakes in Kamakura

Tasting the Local Flavor; Soba & Tempura

• Sakura-if given the choice of when to visit Tokyo for your honeymoon, The Sari-Clad Bride would recommend Sakura (cherry blossom season) in Spring which begins in March.  During this season, breath taking cherry blossoms bloom all over Japan and a festival is celebrated to mark the beginning of the Sakura season.

Sakura

Sakura

While there are many more attractions in Tokyo, the above are just a sample of what’s in store for honeymooners.  If you love the city life and want to enjoy it with your spouse, Tokyo is a great choice for a honeymoon.  The historical sites, nightlife, food, and the shops are a great way to enjoy Japan and experience a new culture!

Gorgeous Karishma Kapoor on her wedding day

A modern take
We love the simple halter top and intricate skirt on this lehenga–perfect for a modern bride’s reception look.
Where: Silkthreads
How much: $1495.00

A sweet ‘n’ simple version
This baby-pink lehenga will make you feel like a princess on your Big day.
Where: mariab.com
How much: Contact for details

mariab.com

A gharara version
Pearls, Svaroviski crystals–what more does a bride need?
Where: bargello.com
How much: On sale for $920.00

bargello.com

An Artistic Take
This multi-shaded lehenga is for the bride who likes to mix things up.
Where: bargello.com
How much: On sale for $1360.00

bargello.com

The show-off-your curves version
Flaunt your curves in this dusky pink mermaid-skirted lehenga.
Where: bargello.com
How much: On sale for $1440.95

bargello.com

Here are the Sari-Clad Bride’s top shopping destinations in Kolkata;

Park Street courtesy of India Mike

Courtesy of James Nichloas Sears

• Park Street: For major wedding sari shopping for the bride, mother of the bride, sisters, and close family that you need to gift saris, you can rely on Park Street for a one-stop shopping experience.  On the Sari-Clad Bride’s recently Kolkata shopping spree, Park Street was her favorite destination. In two days on Park Street, we bought over 30+ beautiful saris from stores such as Sarovar, Savera, Rangoli,  and several other stores.  Additionally, you will find stores for designers kameezes along Park Street. Just a simple stroll down Park Street will cover all your bases for wedding sari shopping!

• Like The Sari-Clad Bride, we are certain that our readers also love several Indian designers.  When it comes to shopping for Designer Bridal Wear, it is best to visit South City Mall located in Salt Lake, along with The Forum.  You’ll find designer shoes, saris, lehengas, and all wedding essentials from the likes of Ritu Kumar, menswear designer Gatha to name a few.

South City Mall courtesy of Kolkata Mirror

The Forum courtesy of Skyscrapercity

• For Wedding trinkets and bangles and other accessories, The Sari-Clad Bride loves New Market. Here, you will find lots of varieties of wedding accessories at bargain prices!

• Jewelry shopping Kolkata should be an essential aspect of wedding shopping in India and The Sari-Clad brides recommends buying jewelry from B.C. Sen Jewellers (http://www.bcsenjewellers.com/event/index.htm)–if you prefer the sit-down, calm environment or Nemichand Bamalwa & Sons (http://www.bamalwa.com)  if you enjoy the hustle and bustle of jewelry business!  Also, The Sari-Clad bride recommends that you check out Anjali Jewelers!