The first event is the Baraat (the groom's procession) which is a traditional and festive procession that marks the arrival of the groom accompanied by his family and friends! The groom’s party arrives and the bride’s family welcomes them with traditional rituals. This will include a ceremonial greeting, such as offering garlands (known as Varmala), and a small ceremony called Aarti. The groom is then escorted to the ceremonial area for the wedding to start. During the Hindu ceremony, the priest will perform a series of rituals to form a sacred binding between the bride and groom in front of family and friends.
Prior to the wedding ceremony itself, there are a few events that will take place. The first event is the Barat (the groom's procession). The groom and his family/friends will make their grand entrance at the Gurdwara. This is an exciting start to the wedding day with the bride's relatives welcoming the groom and his family! Next, everyone will stand together for the Ardaas, or the congregational prayer. Then comes the Milni (the meeting of the families). The Milni is to celebrate two families coming together. The close members of the two families will meet each other and the bride's family will welcome the groom's family to have tea and breakfast before entering the Gurdwara, where the wedding ceremony will take place.
Before entering the prayer room (Darbar Hall), please wash your hands and cover your head with a scarf (this will also be available at the entrance). When you enter the Darbar Hall, you will notice that members of the Sikh community walk towards the altar at the front and bow before the Guru Granth Sahib Ji (the Holy Scripture). They then provide a small monetary donation for the Gurdwara. If you do not feel comfortable doing so, you are not obligated to bow; you may simply take your seat. However, if you do wish to participate, you are most welcome to do so! Men and women sit on opposite sides of the Gurdwara. Upright seating in the back and side of the hall will be provided for those who are physically unable to sit cross legged on the floor. Children tend to roam between both sides.