For more and more brides and grooms, sustainability is becoming an increasing concern. With disposable invitations, decorations, glasses, confetti and more, weddings can have an impact on the environment. Add into that the cost of transport, the impact of the lights, music, and other electronic devices and it’s something that you may be trying to find a solution for before your big day.  

Asian and African weddings especially can oftentimes be much grander, larger events than the average British wedding. For an African or Asian wedding in the UK, you could expect between 350 and 500 guests, with some guest lists hitting 1000! This is compared to an average UK wedding which according to a survey by Hitched, would have 82 day guests and 103 evening guests. Additionally, the larger guest lists oftentimes mean higher costs with the average Nigerian wedding costing £20,000! More guests mean more supplies, larger venues, and oftentimes longer celebrations.  

With that considered, the environmental impact may be something weighing on your mind. At Holiday Inn London Brentford Lock, we have a lot of experience with cultural weddings. Our venue, The Waterfront has played host to hundreds of African and Asian weddings, giving us years of experience.  

So here are our tips for having a more sustainable cultural wedding.  

Ask the right questions to your wedding suppliers

When a supplier tells you that their products are ‘locally sourced’ or ‘organic’, look into certification. When it comes to sustainability, oftentimes companies may try to jump onto the trend without putting in the actual work. Make sure you’re not getting duped!  

Talk to your wedding planner

If you have a wedding planner for your big day, it can be important to go over your aims and your intentions with them before you start booking venues and suppliers. Sustainability can mean different things to different people so discussing just how much you want to commit – even if the prices start to rise – is key to getting the results you’re looking for.  

Choose items that aren’t disposable

While custom-made signs can be a wonderfully thoughtful touch for your wedding, reusable items like chalk boards can mean less waste is being produced. If you don’t have the space to store these items, perhaps share them with the next person in your community getting married or even sell them afterwards. Reusing your supplies is a great way to help everyone be a little more sustainable.  

Think about food waste at your cultural wedding 

For cultural weddings, oftentimes large, elaborate meals are served to the guests. However, there can be a lot of food wastage involved at the end of the day. A typical Indian wedding for 500 guests can produce over 8000 kilos of waste.  

So instead, consider discussing with your caterer what they feel would be the appropriate serving sizes and how you can reduce waste at the end of the night. Inviting your guests to take food home can be a lovely touch, or you can even work with local charities to help deliver that food to those in need.  

Choose more sustainable travel

For cultural weddings in the UK, a large contributor to their environmental pollution is the guests’ travel. With a large guest list and guests travelling from overseas to attend, air pollution through flights can create massive carbon emissions.  

Additionally, travelling across the country to larger venues that might be outside of city centres can be detrimental. Consider your guest list carefully and who you’d really like to attend. Try choosing a venue within close distance to public transport or suggest that your guests carpool or use a coach. All these measures can help reduce the carbon emissions created. 

Luckily, Holiday Inn London Brentford Lock is located just outside of London, 20 minutes from London Heathrow Airport, and only a 12-minute walk from Brentford Train Station.  

Look for alternatives for your wedding supplies

When looking into planning a sustainable wedding, you’ll find there will be more sustainable alternatives to the key customs and traditions you’d like to incorporate into your wedding. For confetti, you can choose a biodegradable option, leading to less waste and litter. For your save-the-date cards and wedding invitations, think about e-vites instead.  

Choose local for your cultural wedding

Floral decorations are a huge part of many weddings. By choosing flowers that are in season and shopping with local florists, you’re able to reduce the emissions needed to transport the flowers.  

This advice applies to catering for your wedding too. If your venue allows outside catering (like Holiday Inn London Brentford Lock), choosing a local supplier not only helps ensure your food is as fresh and delicious as possible but also cuts down on the emissions generated by your supplier travelling.  

Rent instead of purchasing

While many venues perfect for a large guest list will just provide the rental of the space, others may offer packages that include chairs, decorations, sashes, and even more. This means that when you’ve used these touches for your special day, you can return them to the venue to be used again.  

The Waterfront offers a variety of such packages, meaning you can both cut costs and cut down on the environmental impact of your wedding.  

Set a good example

If your guests and family can see that the bride and groom are choosing more sustainable options for their wedding, they’ll be more likely to follow suit. 

If you’re interested in hosting your own sustainable cultural wedding, contact Holiday Inn London Brentford Lock today. With a large open venue perfect for everyone you hold dear, packages to rent decorations and bring your day together, and years of experience in the cultural wedding sector, we’re on hand to help.

We can’t wait to make the wedding of your dreams a reality.  

Email us at info@hibrentfordlock.co.uk or call us on 0208 232 2000.  

When it comes to planning your Indian wedding, there are a lot of factors to consider – your guest list, your decorations, and your catering. Sometimes, the last thing you think of is entertainment. But entertainment at an Indian wedding can completely transform your guests’ experience.  

At Brentford Lock Holiday Inn’s London wedding venue, The Waterfront, we’ve had years of experience hosting Indian and Asian weddings. It means we know exactly how to transform your day and make sure every expectation is exceeded.  

To find out more about choosing the perfect entertainment for your Indian wedding, read on.  

Give your guests a break with wedding entertainment

Indian weddings are often long events, spanning days. With a large guest list, it’s also likely that many of your guests have travelled from outside of the area, adding to their exhaustion on the big day. If you’d like to ensure that your guests have a great time, are able to dance the night away, and leave with a lasting memory, it’s a good idea to plan moments in your wedding where they can sit and rest.  

Time set aside for mingling, eating, and even watching entertainment can be a great solution to this. Booking a dance act or a musician that requires your guests to sit back and enjoy the performance can be a wonderful idea.  

Holiday Inn London – Brentford lock is located just outside of London, which is why we recommend The Bollywood Co. London’s Premier dance and entertainment company provides incredible shows at intimate celebrations to grand weddings, easily impressing your guests.  

Strike the right balance with wedding music

When it comes to music at your Asian wedding, it can be hard to ensure that everyone is happy. Music taste is personal, making it difficult to get the playlist just right. For Asian weddings in the UK, many couples decide to balance Indian and Western music. For example, you can choose to play Indian music for most of the Sangeet and Baraat but play British music during the latter half of the reception. This way, you’re more likely to play at least one song people will enjoy.  

At The Waterfront, our experience hosting Asian weddings means we’re well acquainted with the best entertainers for Indian weddings. If you want to make sure the music remains playing smoothly all night, you can hire a DJ. There are plenty of DJs who specialise in Asian and Indian weddings available to hire in London, including:  

• AK Music  

• Musical Movements 

• Dynamic Roadshow 

Book cultural acts

While your wedding can and should be unique, regardless of where you come from, many times, Indian weddings will involve customs unique to the culture. If you’re looking for a more authentic Indian wedding in London, there are things you can do to pay respect to your culture.  

Booking cultural acts like dhol players and singers can ensure that you’re paying homage to more traditional weddings as well as entertaining your guests with incredible talent and skill!  

Dhol drummers are an incredible addition, perfect for your bride and groom entrance or escort. You can hire them in London here.  

Or, if you’d rather, you can book incredibly talented sitar players who are sure to impress your guests. Ravi is a sitar player who has previously collaborated with British icon Sir Paul McCartney and is available to be booked for weddings now. Take a look.  

Join in the fun at your Indian wedding

It’s important to remember that the couple sets the tone at the wedding. If the newlyweds are celebrating and having fun, then the guests are more likely to join in.  

Plan exciting entrances to get the energy up, greet everyone through the day and help them feel engaged, and enjoy yourself with all the celebrations of the weekend.  

Choose vendors you can trust

When working with companies providing entertainment for your wedding, you want to make sure they’ll respect your requests and can be relied upon. A band turning up late or your dancers performing a street dance routine instead of a Bollywood routine has the potential to ruin your big day. Get to know your vendors beforehand, ask to see videos of their work, and make sure you’ve signed a contract.  

If you’re struggling to ensure all the details are ironed out, hire a wedding planner. They’ll be able to keep track of all of this for you and conduct the running of the day so you can focus on enjoying yourself!  

Keep your Indian wedding entertainment unique

If you’d like to make a splash with your Indian wedding entertainment, you have to stray from the traditional path with unique and exciting entertainment options.  

• Live speed painting  

• Fire dance performances  

• Professional emcee 

• Wedding magicians  

• Photo booth  

For something entirely memorable, our venue, The Waterfront, even holds a special fireworks license so you can light up the night sky in style.  

Whatever entertainment you choose for your Indian wedding, we’re here to support you through all your wedding plans so you can have the day you’ve always dreamt of.  Get in touch to see how we can make your dream big day a reality.

Email events@hibrentfordlock.co.uk today. 

Holiday Inn Brentford Lock offers the perfect blend of serene canal views and a calm atmosphere, making it an ideal venue for hosting both corporate and personal events. Whether you’re looking for a tranquil setting for a business meeting or a vibrant space for a celebration, the picturesque views of the canal create a peaceful and unique backdrop. With easy access to London and a range of flexible event spaces, our venue is designed to offer a seamless and unforgettable experience for your guests. 

Spacious and Flexible Rooms

Our Waterfront Suite, with its stunning canal views, is just one of the many versatile meeting spaces available at Holiday Inn Brentford Lock. As the star of our venue, the Waterfront Suite is perfect for larger events, accommodating up to 600 guests and offering a truly flexible and adaptable space. The suite can be arranged in multiple layouts to suit your needs, from a large theatre-style event to an intimate cabaret setup, ensuring your event is executed exactly as you envision. In addition to this standout space, we offer a variety of other meeting rooms that cater to smaller gatherings, workshops, and team-building events, providing the ideal setting for every occasion. 

Dedicated Event Team Support

It’s not just about the size – it’s about the quality of the experience. We understand that successful events rely on great service. That’s why our dedicated Event Team is committed to providing support from the moment you enquire to the final post-event follow-up. We work with you to ensure your event runs smoothly, offering tailored solutions to meet your specific requirements. Whether it’s technical assistance, customised catering, or just ensuring that your guests have everything they need, we’re here to help. 

Exceptional Meeting Packages

What makes Brentford Lock stand out from other venues near London is our exceptional meeting packages. We offer great value options that include everything you need for a smooth and successful event. 

Our Delegates Packages are comprehensive, covering everything from room hire, event team support, and unlimited Wi-Fi to projectors, screens, flipcharts, and refreshments throughout the day. Plus, with our 4-hour response time to RFPs and free on-site parking, you can rest assured that your event will be organised efficiently and hassle-free. 

Ideal Venue for Both Corporate and Personal Events 

Holiday Inn Brentford Lock isn’t just for large corporate events. We cater to a wide range of meetings and events, from team workshops and product launches to birthday parties, proms, christenings, and even wakes. Our space is ideal for both personal and professional gatherings, and with a range of catering options, we can create a bespoke experience to suit every occasion. 

Unique Events and Experiences

Our venue has hosted some truly remarkable events this year, including our incredibly successful New Year’s Eve Party. Guests rang in 2024 in style, dressing as 2024 icons, enjoying a Champagne reception, a delicious 3-course dinner, and plenty of champagne at midnight.

Looking ahead, we’re excited for more unique events. On 17th January, join us for Faulty Towers The Dining Experience, a night of 5-star comedy and mouth-watering cuisine. Then, on 21st February, we’ll host Sheer Luck Holmes, an interactive murder mystery dinner show that promises intrigue and lots of fun!

2024 has also been a year of many incredible weddings, with couples choosing our venue to celebrate their special day. We’re thrilled to continue hosting magical moments and look forward to more wonderful weddings in the year ahead. 

A Popular Choice for Weddings and Celebrations

Holiday Inn Brentford Lock has gained a reputation as a popular choice for weddings and celebrations. With the ability to cater for a range of weddings – from intimate ceremonies to large-scale celebrations – our venue is the ideal location for couples looking to make their special day unforgettable.

Our Waterfront Suite, with its spacious layout and stunning views, serves as a beautiful blank canvas that can be transformed to suit any wedding style, whether it’s a classic reception or a vibrant cultural celebration. With our experienced event team by your side, your big day will be handled with the utmost care and attention to detail. 

Wedding Showcase Events to Inspire You

If you’re planning your wedding, don’t miss our New Year, New Beginnings Wedding Showcase on 12th January. This event is the perfect opportunity to see the venue in action, explore the Waterfront Suite, and gather inspiration from top-tier wedding suppliers. You’ll experience first hand the kind of luxury and style that will make your wedding day truly memorable. 

Book Your Event Today

Whether you’re planning a sophisticated business meeting or a memorable personal celebration, Holiday Inn Brentford Lock offers the perfect combination of flexibility, service, and style. While the Waterfront Suite is our standout space, we also have a variety of other suites and meeting rooms to suit events of all sizes and types. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or a large-scale conference, we have the ideal space to meet your needs. 

Our dedicated team is here to ensure your event is a success, no matter the occasion. If you’re looking for a venue near London, get in touch today to learn more about our tailored meetings and events packages. Let us help you create an unforgettable experience in the heart of Brentford, just a short distance from central London. 

For more information or to book your next event, contact us at 0208 232 2005 or email us at events@hibrentfordlock.co.uk. 

When it comes to planning your dream wedding one of the first questions you should ask is who do you want to invite? It’s crucial to know before you order your catering, pick your bridal party, and especially when you’re looking for a venue.  

Planning an intimate nuptials? You’re sure to find a small venue perfect for hosting you and your guests. But if you’re committed to a traditional Indian wedding, you’ll likely have an expansive guest list.  

This means you’ll need a large enough venue to accommodate everyone. Luckily, at Holiday Inn Brentford Lock, our wedding venue The Waterfront has years of experience hosting cultural weddings, so we’ve learnt a thing or two.  

Here’s our guide on how to craft the perfect guest list for your Indian wedding. 

How to create your Indian wedding guest list

Plan early for your wedding guest list

The earlier you start thinking about your guest list the more time you’ll have to add people, let other people share their opinions, and finally decide before booking your venue and suppliers.

Plus, if you’re liable to make changes, having a longer time before you have to send out save the dates and invites means you’re less likely to forget someone crucial to the day or over-invite!

Split the guest quota between you and your partner

While your wedding day is special to you, it’s also special for your partner and your family. By making sure you’ve divided the number of people you’re allowed between each other you’re able to ensure it stays fair and doesn’t get out of control.

Split the guest list into categories

For Indian weddings, there is a cultural expectation that those close to the bride, the groom, and the family will be invited, leading to sprawling guest lists. However, if you’re looking to cut down on this for budget, comfort, or venue reasons, it’s a good idea to split the guest list into categories and set caps on the number of people you’ll be inviting.

For example, you can decide the number of immediate family, extended family, coworkers, and friends you’ll be inviting.

Set clear boundaries and rules

An essential you cannot forget when organising your guest list is setting boundaries. You’ll need to lay these out clearly on the invite – whether it’s physical or digital. If you’d like to control the number of attendees and keep things close, then ensure you’re making it clear that you’re not offering plus ones. For an event that has a calmer vibe and allows the adults to relax, think about a child-free ceremony.

Consider your wedding budget

While following tradition may mean that you have a larger guest list at your Indian wedding, you don’t have to necessarily spend a traditional amount. The average cost of an Indian wedding in London is often between £60,000 and £150,000. With catering you’ll have to consider the costs related to how much food you’ll be ordering as oftentimes it’ll be priced per person or plate. A larger guest list also means the need for larger venues which can also be more expensive. When planning your guest list, it’s important to remember what you can feasibly afford.

Let your parents take a look over it

Traditionally, the parents of the couple are involved in the planning process for Indian weddings. Even in other cultures, parents are usually involved to ensure that the right relatives will be in attendance and everyone important to you will be there. Weddings are a stressful time, and an extra set of eyes is always useful.

Think about the different events

Indian weddings differ from many other cultures due to the number of events involved, often spanning days. Depending on the religion your family follows, or the specific culture you belong to, an Indian wedding can last up to five days, but most last for three days.

For Hindu weddings, you’ll often have the Ganesh Puja followed by the Mendhi night/Sangeet night on the first day. The second day will have the Grah Shanti and the third day will involve the wedding celebration and usually an evening reception. The third day is often the most important in terms of inviting guests.

If you’re looking to reduce the number of people invited, perhaps invite specific guests to certain events and reduce the number of people invited to the main wedding ceremony.

Rule out guilt

While following tradition may be important to you and your loved ones, it’s your wedding day. If you want to keep it more private, or if you’re looking to reduce the cost, then it’s time to consider your guest list. If you’d like to invite everyone you know then make sure it’s agreed by your partner and you’re both happy with your decision. You can’t hold guilt or let it ruin your special moment. Work through it logically and in categories to make sure you’re not forgetting anyone from your sprawling list.  

If you’re happy with your wedding guest list and looking for the right venue that can fit your number of guests, lets you get creative with your decor, and incorporates all the cultural touches and traditions your heart desires, then get in touch with Holiday Inn Brentford Lock today. Our wedding venue, The Waterfront, is 65,000 square feet and pillar-free, leaving a vast amount of space to deliver on your vision. We can host weddings for 50-500 guests, making it ideal for your Indian wedding.  

If you’d like to discuss saying I do at the waterfront, head to our contact page now or email weddings@hibrentfordlock.co.uk today. 

Congratulations on your engagement! Winter weddings are some of the most magical, with cosy vibes that bring the whole family together and offer something a little different from traditional celebrations.  

Planning your wedding is one of the most special times of your life, and as a London venue with years of experience hosting special celebrations for couples, we know how difficult the task is. Luckily, our expertise means we can support you in planning the most special day of your life with helpful tips and tricks and the most gorgeous location to celebrate your fantastic event at.   

Why a winter wedding?  

Traditionally, peak wedding season in the UK takes place between May and October, with most weddings happening in Summer from July to August. That means that the cheapest times to get married are December, January, and February. This is for a number of reasons including the big seasonal holidays like Christmas that take place in this period and people opting for warmer weather and sunnier times for their photos and celebrations. In fact, only 1% of couples get married in January.  

Due to the lack of popularity in these months, the sector slows down for wedding professionals, leading to more availability and cheaper prices.  

However, many people choose to get married in the winter not because of availability and keeping costs down, but because of preferences. Some couples just dream of a winter wedding – whether they’re going all out on the theme, or because the time of year means something special to them.  

What’s a winter wedding theme?  

You can see many weddings taking place during this season fully embracing the winter theme. Colours will be cool-toned and often reflect a wintery palette with pale blues and whites across the wedding party, as well as faux fur or glitter featuring on the outfits. The decor will often incorporate snowflakes, fake snow, or even candles. It’s a fun twist on traditional weddings that is always memorable.  

What do you need at a winter wedding?  

While they can be themed, winter weddings don’t necessarily have to be any different to summer weddings. However, you may need to make decisions to suit the weather and the season. An indoor event is always preferred for a winter wedding to avoid the harshness of the weather, and guests may need extra touches to remain comfy and warm. Think blankets in baskets and fireplaces or warm drinks on offer. Instead of a cold buffet, warm sit-down meals may be ideal.  

Dos and Dos of Winter Weddings 

Do: 

• View your venue at night or in the dark to make sure it’ll look just as good when the winter sun sets early in the day.  

• Focus on good lighting to create a warming atmosphere.  

• Add comforting touches – blankets, slippers, a hot chocolate bar, a fireplace. 

• Send out save-the-dates in advance to secure time during the busy holiday period.  

Don’t  

• Forget to account for extra travel time in bad weather. 

• Choose an outdoor or open venue.  

• Forget to wrap up warm or bring extra layers.  

If you’re looking for the perfect winter wedding, why not consider The Waterfront at Holiday Inn Brentford Lock?  

Why is The Waterfront the Perfect Choice?  

While we always sing the praises of The Waterfront, it is an ideal wedding venue in London, offering true flexibility and versatility while remaining a stunning choice. The open-plan venue can be set up in multiple different ways, accommodating your guests (and your dancefloor) as you see fit. It’s a dry-hire venue, so you can choose your decor, perfectly matching whatever theme you’ve been dreaming of – and fill it with all the cosy vibes you’d like. The large windows are ideal for watching the snowfall on the River Brent outside, making sure you’ll leave with magical memories that will last a lifetime.  

The venue is located in Holiday Inn Brentford Lock so you can get ready in your hotel room and retire straight there afterwards, staying warm and cutting out the hassle on a cold winter day. The hotel is just a 14-minute drive from London Heathrow airport and a 12-minute walk from Brentford Train station, so your guests can arrive at your event with style and with ease. 

It’s the ideal location for your winter wedding so what are you waiting for? Book now and secure your 2025/2026 winter wedding date.  

Indian weddings can be grand affairs. Multiple events, a long guest list, and lots of moving parts are to be considered if you want it to be an impressive affair. As a bride or groom, you’re sure to be busy on the day and the last thing you should be concerned about is whether the flower delivery is arriving to your venue.  

Holiday Inn Brentford Lock hosts hundreds of cultural weddings at our venue, The Waterfront, meaning we’ve become experts at this sort of thing. Our years of experience mean we’ve picked up a thing or two – including the best way to organise your day and ensure you have the best time possible.  

So, for an Indian wedding that goes perfectly to plan, without the stress, here’s why you should hire a wedding planner.  

Cut Down on Time  

Wedding planners will spend an average of 150-250 hours planning your big day. That’s over a month of full-time work. If you’re busy running your life, working a job, and raising a family, the last thing you need is to be taking on such a monumental task on top of everything else. With a wedding planner, the tasks are tackled by a professional, saving you time to enjoy yourself and get excited about what lies ahead. At Brentford Lock we can also offer packages that help cut down on your decisions and make life a little easier, saving you time (and costs for your wedding planner’s hours).  

Expertise  

Wedding planners are professionals. The likelihood is that you’ve perhaps attended a few weddings and maybe even been involved in some wedding parties. However, when it comes to seating charts, ordering the right amount of cutlery, and creating a photo checklist, sometimes it’s better to leave things to the professionals.  

Budget  

While hiring a wedding planner is an expense in itself, it can save you money in the long run. Indian weddings are on average more expensive than the average British wedding, costing between £20,000 and £40,000 with that number rising to between £60,000 and £150,000 for events in London. Wedding planners work on a budget, meaning they can ensure your costs remain tight and your wallet isn’t too badly impacted.  

Entertainment  

Indian weddings are often full-scale events, with more entertainment and guests than many weddings you’ll see in London. Sourcing the acts, arranging a timeline for the day and coordinating different performances is a difficult task to pull off. That’s why wedding planners are so perfect for Indian weddings. They can help choreograph dance performances that will make you look like a Bollywood star and arrange for music that will have your guests partying all day long.  

Avoid Hassle 

Culturally, Indian weddings differ from other weddings partially due to their size. The etiquette of invitations differs in Hindu and Muslim weddings, meaning that typically you could expect 400 guests invited to an Indian wedding, with the average number hitting 524 according to one 2019 survey.  

With so many guests, having a coordinator for large events can help avoid disagreement and drama by keeping the day smooth and making sure everyone’s needs are attended to.  

 Additionally, while it may be tempting to plan the wedding with your family, this can cause unnecessary tension that hiring a wedding planner can help you avoid.  

Alleviate Stress  

While budget, time, and expertise are all important reasons for hiring a wedding planner, one of the most important considerations is stress. Your wedding should be a happy event, celebrating the love you and your partner have for one another and the joining of two families.  

A wedding planner knows how to handle the last-minute hiccups and jitters as well as helping to plan a day that runs smoothly, so all you’ll remember is the great time you had.  

Indian weddings are so much more than just a ceremony. They’re an expression of love and a chance to have everyone important in your life together. So, hire a wedding planner and have the wedding of your dreams.  

If you’re in search of a venue that can provide support, flexible and inclusive packages, and stunning views, why not book The Waterfront at Holiday Inn Brentford Lock? We offer external catered weddings, allowing you to fill the day with your own traditions and cultural elements as well as the use of a private bar, and a complimentary executive bedroom with our Tulip and Carnation wedding packages.

Get in touch now and find out more.  

African weddings can vary wildly from celebration to celebration, but it can be intimidating to find the right outfit as a guest. There’s a lot to consider in terms of being respectful, while also feeling and looking confident in your outfit.  

Our wedding venue at our London Hotel, Holiday Inn Brentford Lock, hosts hundreds of weddings a year, specialising particularly in Asian and African weddings. Seeing so many happy couples celebrate their union at The Waterfront, we’ve become experts in cultural weddings.  

Flamboyant prints, captivating gowns, colourful fabrics and stunning adornments – when it comes to what to wear as a guest to an African wedding, you can trust that we know what we’re talking about.  

Struggling to find the right look? Read on to discover more. 

Long skirts and dresses

While many African weddings don’t adhere to such strict traditions or modesty as some traditional Asian weddings, there are still expectations of your outfits respecting the bride and groom’s beliefs and customs.  

Short skirts, dresses, or shorts should be avoided unless you’ve checked with the happy couple in advance, or it’s clearly stated that they’re happy for you to do so.  

Long dresses are seen as a symbol of femininity and add a touch of elegance to your outfit. Dresses aren’t mandatory, however, and matching sets of maxi skirts with chic blouses are often seen worn by female guests at African weddings.  

Accessories

Accessories are a big part of African wedding outfits and head accessories can perfectly finish or accentuate a look. They’re also an important part of the heritage of many African nations.  

There’s a variety to choose from, with many more closely associated with certain regions of Africa or cultures than others, so it’s a good idea to do your research if you’re not familiar with them.  

Many headwraps can be made to match your outfit, meaning you can perfectly coordinate, or choose a style that contrasts your look. Experiment with tying it differently to find a style that suits both your outfit and you best.  

Doeks are often seen as being more informal and versatile, while geles can be more intricate, making them better suited for formal or regal events.  

Colours

Black is usually avoided in African weddings, however, in more modern times many African weddings are bucking tradition and even the wedding party can be seen in black clothing.  

It’s best to talk to the bride and groom before committing to this look but if you’re determined to wear black, mixing in some vibrant colours or prints will help you avoid standing out and balance the solum nature of the colour. African weddings are about celebration so make sure your outfit reflects that.  

Traditionally, you’re going to see a lot of colours and bold prints in the clothing at an African wedding, for the wedding party and the guests.  

Practicality

Many African weddings will have a lot of dancing (with parties often making use of the large space at The Waterfront for a dance floor!) so your footwear should be appropriate for the activity. Guests can either wear comfortable shoes (like flats for women) or bring a change of shoes to swap into after the ceremony has concluded.  

Follow the dress code

Just like other weddings around the world, there may be a dress code for an African wedding, and it’s considered distasteful to ignore this.  

There may be dress codes associated with the customs and traditions of the African couple which may vary wildly depending on the region or country they’re from. For Nigerian weddings, you might have Asọ-Ẹbí which is a dress code or style traditionally worn by the Yoruba people which might be used at a wedding to identify certain groups connected with the couple or celebrant. 

They may also choose a dress code that’s individual to the tastes of the couple and reflect what they enjoy.  

Unless you’re close to the couple and informed beforehand all of this information should be communicated prior to the wedding, usually in the invitations. Remember to read it and follow it as closely as you’re able to.  

Do I have to dress traditionally?

Attending an African wedding does not necessarily mean you have to purchase traditional African outfits. The caveat to this is if it’s mentioned on the invitations that this is the preference of the couple!  

It is sometimes a nice gesture to show respect for the culture and the African wedding you’ve been invited to if you choose to embrace the traditional style of dress. There’s a rising trend of blending African and British styles as well as mixing contemporary styles with traditional elements, opening up African wedding attire to encompass so many more options!  

As long as what you’re wearing is respectful and doesn’t stand out or divert attention away from the bride and the groom, then it’s fine to wear what you’re most comfortable in.  

The aim of any wedding guest attire should be for you to feel comfortable and to be happy with how you’re dressed. If you feel confident then go for it! 

We hope you have a wonderful time as a guest at the next African wedding you attend. If you’d like to learn more about cultural weddings, we’re experts at Holiday Inn – Brentford Lock, hosting many cultural weddings at our gorgeous venue, The Waterfront. Check out the rest of our blog for more information.

When it comes to Indian weddings, most people think big – big venue, big guestlist, big celebration. Of course, that means a big bill at the end of the day. Asian weddings are oftentimes a lot more expensive than the average wedding in the UK. While the average UK wedding costs around £20,000, the average UK Indian wedding costs £50,000 with that figure going as high as £100,000.  

Why are Indian weddings so expensive?

While not every Indian wedding will cost £50,000, they’re often more expensive affairs due to the culture. In Indian culture, a large guest list is common. In addition to the usual close friends and family in attendance, you may expect to see coworkers, wider relatives, and figures within the community included on the guest list. This then requires a higher budget to book a venue that can accommodate that many guests, enough catering to feed them, decorations to fill the room, etc. Larger weddings will often cost more.  

But more than this, while the average UK wedding will consist of a ceremony and reception, many Indian weddings will be made up of multiple events, often spread over many days. At a northern Indian wedding, you’re likely to see the Sangeet which will often look like a traditional British wedding with caterers and entertainment. Then there will be the Mehndi where close female friends and women from the wedding family will gather to celebrate and get traditional henna designs. After this comes the actual wedding ceremony and the wedding reception (which is often the most expensive part of the proceedings).  

What are the main costs to consider for an Indian wedding?  

When it comes to Indian weddings one of the largest costs is going to be your wedding venue. Venues can be expensive, with some spaces costing thousands. For many Indian couples in the UK, they’ll book a dry-hire space so they can provide their own caterers and make sure the menu reflects their heritage with meals that are appropriate for different dietary needs (as many Hindus are vegetarian for example).  

The average cost of a large dry-hire wedding venue in the UK can range from £10,000 to £15,000. Luckily, at Holiday Inn Brentford Lock, externally catered wedding packages for our venue The Waterfront start from just £2,000.  

Who pays for Indian weddings?

Just like many other cultures, there are traditions that dictate who pays for the wedding. In Indian communities, it is common for the bride’s family to foot the bill for the majority of wedding celebrations.  

However, as times have changed, so have attitudes towards this custom. Nowadays you may find that the bill is split between both families or that the couple themselves decide to pay for their wedding.  

How to make the most of your budget for your Indian wedding?  

• Consider hosting your pre-ceremony functions at home, rather than booking a venue. Choosing to host your Mehndi party or Puja ceremony at your own home will let you cut down on costs for booking a separate venue, while still letting you take part in the important rituals of your culture.  

• Choose the right venue for you. While the perfect venue is important for helping create the big day you’ve always imagined, it can also help you keep costs down. With the right backdrop and setting, you can afford to utilise fewer decorations letting the beauty of the space shine through. That’s why many guests decide to hold their celebrations at The Waterfront, as the setting of the lock can help set the serene vibes they’re looking for.  

• Cut down or divide the guest list. While it’s considered polite and respectable to be reciprocal with your wedding invites (to always invite those who invited you to their wedding), if you don’t have space in the budget and won’t miss them from the day, it’s okay to not ask them to attend. Oftentimes meals are worked out at costs per plate, making your catering bill rack up. If you’d still like them to be involved, consider splitting your guest list and only inviting certain groups to certain events.  

• Choose just one caterer. While you may want options for your guests, working with multiple caterers will increase the costs of your meal compared to negotiating just one contract. Find a caterer who can fulfil your needs and offer variety.  

• Consider doing your own makeup or picking a different makeup artist with a lower price point for your smaller events. While you want to look your best for your wedding, hiring a professional makeup artist for the multiple events of an Indian wedding can become very expensive. 

• Choose a wedding date in the off season to avoid competitive pricing.  

• Think about renting your jewellery instead of purchasing it outright. It’s likely you won’t wear such intricate jewellery every day after your ceremony so if you can do without it, it can be an excellent way to save costs.  

• Purchasing traditional wedding garments in the UK can be expensive, so think about borrowing them from friends and family or ordering them far in advance of the big day.  

• Hire a wedding planner and ask them to ensure that they’re planning the wedding on a budget. They’re professionals at organising weddings and you can find plenty who are experienced in cultural weddings and will be able to work with you to execute your vision. The costs spent on the planner will be saved in other areas and will help you avoid plenty of stress and hassle.  

• Make sure your accommodation is close to your venue to avoid pricey transportation costs. Picking a hotel with an event space (like Holiday Inn Brentford Lock) is a great way to achieve this.  

Indian weddings are fantastic events that bring so many people together. Don’t let the issue of finances get in the way of you celebrating your love. There are many ways to get the most of your Indian wedding budget.  

Holiday Inn Brentford Lock are experts in Asian wedding planning as the host of hundreds of cultural weddings.

If you’re looking for an affordable venue, located just 15 minutes away from Heathrow airport, and a short train ride away from central London, get in touch with us today.  

When it comes to planning your wedding, your venue is one of the most important decisions you can make. It sets the entire tone of the day. It has to accommodate all your nearest and dearest you wish to spend your day with and be conveniently located enough that they can all find their way there on their big day.  

This is even more important for cultural weddings that need much larger spaces. For many Asian and African weddings, the venues also have to be dry-hire spaces, allowing the happy couple to make the place entirely their own. 

Holiday Inn Brentford Lock Knows Cultural Weddings

At Holiday Inn Brentford Lock, we’ve hosted our fair share of cultural weddings. From Southeast Asian weddings to grand Nigerian affairs, we have experience perfectly executing the most important day of your life. So, we’ve gathered our top questions to ask your wedding venue before booking to help you feel confident that you’ve made the right decision.  

Questions to ask your cultural wedding venue before booking.

How large is the capacity?

While you can generally get a feel for the size of the space when you tour it, it can be hard to tell the actual capacity once the room is fitted out with your tables and decorations and dancefloor. The venue will know how many people will comfortably be able to fit into the space, as well as the legal limit to ensure safety for all, your guests.  

What facilities are available?

With the larger size of Asian and African weddings (as the average Asian and African Wedding is at least three times larger than the average number of guests in a UK wedding) you need to make sure the venue is prepared for the number of people. While they may be able to fit your 300 guests, are there toilets and changing facilities to keep everyone happy and comfortable? At Holiday Inn Brentford Lock, our stunning wedding venue, The Waterfront, can comfortably host up to 450 guests with the use of a private bar, car parking, and facilities.  

How late can the venue stay open?

When it comes to cultural weddings, there are often many ceremonies and traditions that take place during the main day of celebration. Traditional Muslim weddings can span two weeks with the actual reception going late into the night. A guest at a Chinese wedding dinner can be expected to stay around four hours. So, you need to make sure your wedding venue is fit for purpose and doesn’t have a legal closing time that will cut off your fun. Even if there is an end time to your celebrations, knowing in advance allows you to put it on your invitations, so your guests have all the information they need!  

How does payment work?

While it can be painful, you need to know the price before confirming the booking of your venue. Due to the size of many cultural weddings, the venue can be pricier than more intimate venues, but they’re also more likely to be dry-hire spaces where the wedding party has to provide their own catering services, decorations, and more. There’s more to be considered in terms of your wedding budget before diving straight in with a venue. You should question how the payment should be made – will the venue accept cash or payments made on your behalf? Is VAT included in the price?  

Do you offer catering or are you open to us providing our own?

If you’re looking for a simpler solution to wedding planning, having your venue cater your meal will streamline operations. But the menu options can be limiting. If you want to make sure the unique dietary needs of your guests are met and that your culture is honoured in the food you serve, then you may want to hire your own caterer. So, you’ll need to check if your venue allows this.  

A dry hire wedding venue is a venue where you’re paying for the exclusive use of the space. At Holiday Inn Brentford Lock we offer dry hire of The Waterford Suite and externally catered wedding packages, meaning you can make the day exactly how you want it. This is especially important to consider for Hindu ceremonies, where many of the guests will be vegetarian or vegan.  

What time can you arrive at the venue?

Many cultural weddings will host a reception on a day separate to the marriage ceremony. This means that there aren’t as strict time limits between moving from event to event. If you’re booking a venue for your reception, you might want to consider what time you can arrive to decorate the space and get ready yourself. Booking a hotel room at the same location as your reception venue can be an easy hack, giving you a space to prepare yourself, get dressed, and a quiet retreat in the middle of the busy day.  

Basic Questions to Cover for your Cultural Wedding Venue:

• Is the venue available on my date? 

• Where is the venue located?  

• Is there parking at the venue?  

• Do you allow alcohol?  

• What equipment is provided?  

• How much is the cost?  

Securing your Asian or African wedding venue

Once you’ve covered all the basics, investigated your burning questions, and toured the venue it’s time to take the plunge and book your venue! Congratulations, it’s a very exciting step towards the biggest day of your life.  

If you’re still on the search for your perfect cultural wedding venue, Holiday Inn Brentford Lock is located just outside of London (only a fifteen-minute drive from Heathrow airport) with a fantastic event space. The Waterfront has stunning views and a large capacity, making it perfect for your cultural wedding. 

Get in touch today.  

Your wedding day is a milestone moment, one of the most cherished events of your life. As you set out on this exciting journey, finding the right wedding suppliers becomes a crucial step in bringing your vision to life. 

From florists and photographers to caterers and DJs, selecting the right professionals can significantly enhance your celebration, making it both unforgettable and stress-free. 

At our hotel in Brentford – Holiday Inn Brentford Lock, we have the perfect wedding venue The Waterfront. With years of experience hosting and planning exceptional weddings, we understand how vital it is to choose the right suppliers to ensure a flawless celebration. 

To help you on this journey, we’ve crafted a comprehensive guide to finding the perfect wedding suppliers for your special day: 

Start with a Vision

Before diving into the search for suppliers, take some time to define your wedding vision – 

what style, theme, or atmosphere do you envision? 

Whether it’s a rustic barn wedding, a chic city affair, or a waterfront ceremony, having a clear idea of your vision will guide your decisions and help you communicate your needs effectively. 

Consider creating a vision board or mood board to visualise your ideas. This can include colours, textures, and even specific elements you want, like hanging lights or floral arrangements. 

By doing this, you’ll have a tangible reference point to ensure that every supplier you choose aligns with your overall vision. This clarity will not only streamline the planning process but also help you make decisions that reflect your personality and preferences, ensuring your wedding is a true representation of your dreams. 

Set a Budget

Establishing a budget for each category of your wedding is essential. Knowing how much you’re willing to spend on each supplier will help you narrow down your options and avoid unnecessary stress later. 

Make sure to also allocate a contingency fund within your budget. Weddings are notorious for unexpected expenses, so setting aside around 5-10% of your total budget for these surprises can provide a financial safety net. This extra cushion will help you manage unforeseen costs with ease, ensuring that you can focus on enjoying your special day without last-minute financial worries. 

Do Your Research

Begin by compiling a list of potential suppliers. Recommendations from friends, family, and your wedding venue are invaluable, but don’t just stop there. 

Dive into online reviews and social media for a broader perspective on each supplier’s reputation and work quality. Wedding forums, Pinterest, and bridal magazines are fantastic resources for wedding inspo. 

Don’t hesitate to reach out to other couples who have recently tied the knot – their first hand experiences can be valuable.  

Check Their Portfolio

Once you have a shortlist, examine each supplier’s portfolio. For photographers, review their previous work to ensure their style aligns with your vision. For florists, check their floral arrangements to see if their designs resonate with your taste. A strong portfolio is often a good indicator of experience and quality. 

Schedule Consultations

Meet with your top choices to discuss your wedding plans and gauge their enthusiasm and professionalism. 

This is your opportunity to ask questions, discuss details, and see if there’s a good personal fit. During these consultations, ask about their experience, availability, and flexibility. 

Ask for References

Don’t hesitate to request references from past clients. Speaking with others who have worked with the supplier can provide valuable insights into their reliability, work ethic, and overall satisfaction. 

Review Contracts Carefully

Before signing any agreements, review contracts thoroughly. Ensure they include all agreed-upon services, delivery times, and payment terms. Pay close attention to cancellation policies and any additional fees that may apply. 

Trust Your Instincts

Ultimately, your intuition plays a significant role in selecting the right suppliers. Choose suppliers who make you feel comfortable and confident with what they offer. Your wedding day is a reflection of you and your partner, so it’s important to work with professionals who understand and respect your vision. 

Communicate Clearly

Clear communication is key to a successful partnership. Be transparent about your expectations and preferences. Regularly update your suppliers on any changes or new developments to ensure everyone is on the same page. 

Enjoy the Process

Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, but it’s also a joyous occasion. Take time to enjoy the process and celebrate the milestones along the way. Finding the right suppliers is a step toward making your dream wedding a reality. 

Join us at our wedding showcase

Speaking of finding the right suppliers, we invite you to join us at our wedding showcase! 

On Sunday, 6th October 2024, we’ll be hosting an exclusive event at the Holiday Inn Brentford Lock. It’s the perfect chance to meet top suppliers, tour our stunning venue, and chat with expert coordinators who can help bring your vision to life. 

We hope to see you there! 

Celebrate your wedding with us

At Holiday Inn Brentford Lock, our wedding venue, The Waterfront is designed to host all types of weddings – from grand celebrations to more intimate gatherings. 

With picturesque views of the lock as a breathtaking backdrop for your wedding photos, our versatile space can be tailored to match any theme or decoration style you envision. 

Find out more about our wedding venue here.