Asian Weddings - Planning the Sanji

Sanji, translated means an opportunity for the bride's and groom's families to be further acquainted over an evening of dance, music and fun. It is more prevalent in Indian weddings and originates mainly as a Gujrati tradition. Sanji runs through the whole evening and possibly into the night. Your planning mainly depends on the venue you choose according to the number of invitees and proceedings of the sanji.

For planning a Sanji you should have the following things in mind:

• Venue - You will need to confirm the number of guests from your fianc矇s side and choose a venue large enough to accommodate guests and the proceedings.

• Parking facilities in the venue - It is important that you ensure adequate parking space for your guests within the hired premises.

• Decorations - This primarily depends on the theme of the Sanji. You may also go for a traditional d矇cor. Some ideas for a Sanji d矇cor can include a Gujrati village theme with rural backdrops, floor cushions with embroidered mirror work. Fresh flowers and indoor fireworks are also prevalent.

• Seating - You need to make sure that the elderly, although in a song and dance place, get to feel comfortable. They may not be as energetic as the young guests and may need to rest frequently. Placing chairs around the perimeter of the event hall is a convenient way to arrange for it.

• Provision of sound systems - You should ensure the facilities being provided for the proceedings and check if they are a part of the in-house facility of the venue. In case you are hiring a DJ, you should make sure if he charges separately for his equipments and sound.

• Catering - You should make sure that the venue you are hiring allows outside catering if you are not satisfied with the in-house services. You will also need to tell the caterers to stick to a vegetarian spread as Sanji is an event of religious significance. Lots of drinks are advisable as guests may feel thirsty considering they will dance their hearts out.

• Meals - You should also check if the venue has arrangements for in house catering and ask for extra charges. Some of the venues may also provide for in-house kitchen services with re-heating facilities. Usually it is a number of meals instead of one that is arranged for as a Sanji is expected carries on into late nights.

• Music and Entertainment - In case you are going for the entertainment being conducted by a professional, hiring someone through personal recommendations make it easier. In cases of in-house entertainment provision, you will want to check the quality of their performance. The DJ must be familiar with the essence of the Sanji mainly for the track selection.

• Local laws and rules - Especially if you are planning an open air Sanji, you must ensure that the proceedings conform to local laws and rules as some residential areas may not allow events at late hours.