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. 

Congratulations on your invitation to an Asian wedding! Wedding celebrations are a great time and you’re sure to enjoy all the events they contain.

Weddings can often be a minefield though, especially when it comes to what to wear – even when you’re not the bride or groom. With South Asian and Chinese weddings especially, outfits tend to be vibrant, intricate, and luxurious, making it hard to choose what you’re wearing on the special day.

At Holiday Inn Brentford Lock our event space is host to many incredible celebrations including Asian weddings. Our large dry-hire event space The Waterfront is the ideal place to hold Asian weddings, with a guest capacity of up to 450 people.

With our experience bringing special days to life as an Asian wedding venue in London, we know a thing or two about wedding attire, so here are our tips for what to wear to an Asian wedding as a guest.

Different cultures

While Asian weddings differ from British or Western weddings for many reasons, it’s important to note there’s a lot of variation between cultures in Asia. Chinese weddings require very different attire from Pakistani weddings. We’ll cover just a few cultures in this blog but it’s best to do your own research on the specifics on the traditional attire if you’re choosing to wear it.

It’s not always necessary to wear the clothes of the bride and groom’s culture, however, it can sometimes be a nice gesture. Every wedding is different, and you’ve been invited because you’re close to the people getting married, so you know best.

Colours

Generally, for Chinese weddings, it’s best to avoid black or white in your wedding guest attire. These colours are associated with the idea of death so it’s a bad omen to wear them to the wedding.

The bride may wear several different outfits during the ceremonies associated with the wedding. Red is often a common colour for these outfits so if you’d like to avoid looking like the bride or clashing with her, stick to another hue. Purples, pinks, and warn tones are usually a good choice.

While red might be a popular colour for the bride’s wedding dress in many Asian cultures, white is also popular. So, across the board, we’d recommend you avoid white clothes – whether it be a suit, lehenga, or a dress

Appropriateness

Try to keep your clothes appropriate. Anything too short or revealing can be considered disrespectful.

Especially for Muslim weddings, modesty is key. Cover your shoulders, knees, and arms. Be prepared you may also need to cover your head in certain ceremonies.

Depending on the ceremony, the day, and the culture of the couple getting married what constitutes appropriateness and modesty may differ but if you’re worried about your outfit, feel free to just ask.

Different Ceremonies

Some Asian cultures have various ceremonies and events spread across multiple days as part of a wedding.

Hindu weddings are comprised of many occasions including the Mehendi ceremony, the Haldi ceremony, and the Sangeet night. Each of these will require an outfit if you’re invited – making these weddings a little time-consuming to prepare for!

This can get a little expensive too but don’t worry. There are many places (especially in London, an easy drive or train ride away from Holiday Inn Brentford Lock) that will rent out outfits for Asian weddings.

Accessories

No matter what wedding you’re going to or the outfit you’re planning accessories are crucial. For Chinese weddings gold accessories will complement your outfit. For Indian and Pakistani weddings, guests will often wear bangles and Jhumka earrings.

Many Asian weddings are long affairs, requiring guests to be present for the whole day. This makes comfortable shoes so important!

Wear What Makes You Happy

At the end of the day, you’ve been invited to the wedding because the happy couple want you there. They’re surrounding themselves with their friends and family and you’re one of them. They want you to be comfortable and to feel good. So choose an outfit you’re happy in and makes you feel good.

If you’re interested in hosting your own Asian wedding or looking for an Asian wedding venue, Holiday Inn Brentford Lock is the perfect space for you. We have a variety of packages available and several catering partners to help you make the process smoother.

Take a look here for more information. 

When it comes to planning the biggest day (or days) of your life, you’re likely facing a lot of choices. At Holiday Inn London Brentford Lock we know weddings and we specialise in cultural weddings, providing a large blank canvas venue (the Waterfront) for you to make your own.

So, with extensive experience in hosting Asian weddings, we’ve picked up a thing or two about the best time for an Asian wedding.

Asian weddings are diverse events, with many different cultural and religious practices. While Chinese and Indian weddings may be large events with lots of attendees, the actual rituals and traditions can vary a lot, so it’s best to gather the right information for your own day. From Sikh weddings to Hindu weddings, Muslim weddings and everything in between, we’ve been the home to hundreds of special occasions and helped to make dreams come true, so let us do it for you too. Get in touch to see how we can be a part of your Asian wedding.

HOW LONG ARE ASIAN WEDDINGS?

One of the major differences between traditional British weddings and Asian weddings is the length of the event. While it varies depending on the culture, many Asian weddings are extravagant events that can go on for days. Pakistani weddings can often take up to a week with the first event (the Dholki) taking place weeks before the main celebrations. There are several other important events leading up to the marriage including the Nisbat to celebrate the formal engagement, and the mehndi party, and then comes the Nikah and the Walima.

A Chinese wedding could last four days, if following many traditions, including the Tea Ceremony.

WHAT IS THE RIGHT TIME OF YEAR FOR AN ASIAN WEDDING?

Like any other a number of factors to consider before picking the date.

SEASONS

The season is going to be important when considering booking your wedding. Some couples opt for an autumn wedding to match the rich jewel tones they’ve chosen and embrace a moodier look. Others prefer the bright and colourful vibes of spring and summer. Summer is the most popular time for weddings, with the height of wedding season in the UK being between June and August. Spring and early summer are often a very popular time for Asian weddings in the UK because of the good weather and its association with new starts.

SUPERSTITIONS

Many Asian cultures have superstitions which should be considered when it comes to picking your wedding date. Vietnamese culture for example is incredibly

Hindus have to avoid Amavasya, a day that falls once a month, as marriage is forbidden on this day. It’s also considered unlucky to marry during Shraddha, a two-week period that falls 15 days before Holi.

In Chinese culture it’s thought that leap months are the best and luckiest for weddings as these months are meant to bring abundance.

ASTROLOGY

Due to its importance in a number of different Asian cultures, astrology can be used to help pick the ideal wedding date. Some couples even turn to astrologers to help them decide, using lunar calendars and celestial configurations to find the luckiest and most fitting date.

VENUE

Of course, as with any wedding, making sure your venue is available when you want to host your wedding is crucial! Finding the ideal venue can be tough, especially if you need a large space. The best way to go about hunting for where you’ll be hosting your wedding is by picking an ideal season or month but being open-minded about changing the dates. Then you can make sure you don’t end up disappointed.

When it comes to the best time to host an Asian wedding, it can feel overwhelming and tricky, with lots to consider. At Holiday Inn London Brentford Lock we know what we’re doing. Let us take the load off and help you make your big day as magical as you deserve.

When it comes to celebrating special occasions, Holiday Inn London Brentford Lock makes the perfect place to rest your head. Located less than an hour from central London and just 33 minutes from famous Notting Hill (a must-visit for any romantic), Holiday Inn Brentford Lock is ideal for a trip to the big city without the hustle and bustle.  Perched on the river Brent, enjoy the green spaces around you and the stunning surroundings as you spend quality time with your loved one. No matter if you’re dropping by to celebrate your 1st, 5th, or 50th anniversary, we’ve got you covered.

YOUR 1ST ANNIVERSARY IN BRENTFORD – PROMENADE AND PICNIC

When it comes to your first anniversary you might think your only options are drinks and dinner. But why not try something a little bit more memorable? Make the most of the great weather this summer and take a walk along the river Brent before ending with an adorable picnic. Grab your blankets, picnic basket, and an array of your favourite treats for an anniversary that will be as memorable and unique as your partner is.

With a laid-back vibe this gives you the opportunity to reflect on your first year together and share fond memories as you stroll hand in hand. Plus, you’ll be able to enjoy the stunning views as you walk. The recent attention that’s been paid to conservation on the area has helped to support the diverse wildlife who call this home – so if you’re partial to some bird watching, then you’re in luck. The Brent Reservoir is a Site of Special Scientific Interest that allows you to spot a variety of wetland birds like little grebes and willow warblers.

YOUR 5TH DATE IN BRENTFORD – RENT A BOAT IN BRENTFORD

When it comes to a five- year anniversary, it’s time to make a splash. To celebrate your commitment to each other and the time you’ve spent together, why not do something memorable? Rent a private boat and cruise along Grand Union Canal for an anniversary adventure like no other. Located on Brentford River Lock, Holiday Inn Brentford Lock is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking to rent a boat.

If you’ve never hired a narrowboat before, it’s sure to be a notable way to spend your anniversary. Explore the area and try something new with your partner.

YOUR 50TH ANNIVERSARY IN BRENTFORD - TREAT YOUR LOVED ONE TO WINE TASTING

While the UK might not be infamous for its wineries or vineyards, Brentford can be a real treat for lovers of an occasional tipple. The area has some incredible venues, unlike any you’d find elsewhere in the UK. Spend an evening with your loved one over a bottle or two and reminisce about your time together. After 50 years, the conversation is sure to flow as you explore treasured memories.

We especially recommend Plonkers – a novel bar with a retro design. You can find Plonkers Wine Bar in Brentford House. If you’re looking for an informal approach to wine tasting, try their Wine Club tasting Night. With a different theme each night, a guided tasting tour of four premium wines, and individual cheese boards, it’s a total treat.

For an extensive wine list accompanied by a delicious dinner, you have to head to Sam’s Waterside. Their offerings are extensive so be sure to check out their star picks – or just head straight to the bubbles with a bottle of Ruinart Blanc de Blancs NV to toast 50 years of joy.

Lovers of ale won’t be neglected on their anniversary trip to Brentford either. The Black Dog Beer House is a beer lover’s dream with their very own in-house brewery (fearless Nomad) and 14 keg lines.

Planning a dream wedding, particularly an Asian wedding, requires plenty of time to plan and meticulous attention to detail. Notoriously, Asian weddings are known for their luxury, grandeur and scale – with anywhere between 200-500 guests attending.

At our hotel in Brentford – Holiday Inn Brentford Lock, we have the perfect Asian wedding venue The Waterfront. Over the years, we’ve hosted and planned many extraordinary Asian weddings. During this time, we’ve picked up lots of great tips to ensure we perfectly match your vision for your dream wedding.

Here are our 9 tips on how to make your Asian wedding amazing:

1. START PLANNING EARLY

You don’t want to feel like you’re rushing your wedding details, especially not your guest list – we all know how tricky this is, so give yourself plenty of time.

Start planning your wedding well in advance. We recommend giving yourself at least 12 months. If possible, extending your planning period to 14 months provides even more leeway to meticulously plan every detail of your special day. An early start will only help alleviate the stress that comes along with wedding planning.

2. DECIDE ON A BUDGET

Let’s be honest, weddings are expensive, with Asian weddings costing upwards of £50,000.

To manage this, first establish your maximum budget. Delve into all the details – such as calculating the cost per guest. Carefully consider your finances in alignment with what both you and your partner – and potentially your families – find feasible.

Consider creating a detailed spreadsheet that breaks down all potential expenses, from venue, catering and attire, to decorations, photography and entertainment. This will help you see where your money is going and identify areas where you can possibly cut costs or splurge a bit more, depending on what’s important for you.

It’s also a good idea to set aside a contingency fund within your budget. Unexpected costs can, and often do, arise during the planning of a wedding. Having approximately 5-10% of your total budget reserved for unforeseen expenses will provide a financial cushion and reduce stress as your big day approaches.

3. CHOOSE A FUN THEME

Some may find wedding themes a bit over the top, or too much hassle to plan. But if done in the right way, carefully planned themes can add an extra element of fun in your Asian wedding, making it even more unforgettable.

Choose a theme that reflects the personalities of you both and keep it easy to follow. For instance, a theme idea could be a Bollywood-inspired wedding. Picture this, Bollywood dancers and performers creating a lively atmosphere captivating your guests.

Explore Bollywood wedding ideas further here.

4. INCLUDE A ELEMENT OF SUPRISE

Bringing in an element of surprise will add that extra fun touch to your wedding.

Sticking with the Bollywood theme, you could hire a professional Bollywood choreographer to get your friends and family up on the dance floor, dancing in sync with one another.

5. GIVE OUT WEDDING FAVOURS

Give your guests wedding favours, they’ve come to celebrate with you, so they’ll appreciate a little treat to remember your big day by.

Tying in your culture or theme into your wedding favour will add that extra personal touch, making your celebration even more memorable.

Here’s a few wedding favour ideas:

Mini tea set – Gift your guests a mini tea set with a few sachets of your culture’s traditional teas.

Sandalwood fans – These intricately carved fans not only provide a cooling function during a warm outdoor (or indoor) ceremony, but also make for a stunning decorative keepsake.

Silk pouches – Small silk pouches or bags in vibrant colours filled with assorted sweets or nuts.

6. GET CREATIVE WITH YOUR WEDDING CAKE

Your wedding cake is more than just a dessert, it’s the centerpiece that can capture the essence of your celebration.

For an Asian wedding, think outside the traditional tiered cake and opt for something that symbolically represents your culture and personality. You could choose a cake designed with intricate henna-like designs or one that features motifs, such as cherry blossoms, peonies or even koi fish.

7. SERVE MOCKTAILS INSTEAD OF SOFT DRINKS

Offering a selection of tasty mocktails instead of the usual (or as well as) lineup of soft drinks can elevate the guest experience significantly.

Mocktails have a sophisticated touch to them that complements the celebratory mood of your wedding. Offer flavours that can match your theme or cultural background.

Some of our personal favourite flavours to include in a mocktail are lychee, jasmine, or tamarind.

8. SHOW OFF YOUR CULTURE

Throughout this blog, we have suggested ways you can incorporate your culture into your wedding. That’s because an Asian wedding is the perfect opportunity to celebrate and showcase your rich cultural heritage.

Incorporate traditional music, dance and attire into your wedding to make it truly stand out. Consider hosting traditional ceremonies like the Indian Sangeet or Mehndi, or include Chinese tea ceremonies as part of the event.

These elements not only honour your roots but also give guests a deeper appreciation and experience of your culture. Don’t shy away from educating guests about the significance of various customs – it can make the event even more engaging and meaningful.

9. PICK THE PERFECT LOCATION AND VENUE

Choosing the right location and venue is crucial in setting the right tone for your Asian wedding.

Ensure the venue you choose can comfortably accommodate your guest list and has the necessary facilities to host the various elements of your wedding, from dining to entertainment, and even traditional rituals.

At Holiday Inn Brentford Lock, our venue The Waterfront is designed to accommodate large, lavish Asian weddings. The scenic views of the lock make a stunning backdrop for your wedding photos, while the versatile space can be transformed to suit any theme or decoration style you envision.

Find out more about our Asian wedding venue here.