Beautifully decorated wedding mandap at sunset on a Goa beach

Together with their families

Sonal & Simon

request the pleasure of your company

January 29 - 30, 2027

Devaaya Resort, Divar Island, Goa

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The Celebrations

What to Expect

Our wedding is spread across two days of celebration, each with its own traditions, energy, and atmosphere. Here is a guide to what each event involves and what to wear.

Mehndi celebration

Day One — January 29

Mehndi

Mehndi is a joyful pre-wedding gathering where intricate henna designs are applied to the bride's hands and feet by skilled artists. The patterns symbolise love, joy, and good fortune. It's a relaxed and festive occasion at Devaaya's poolside, and guests are warmly welcome to have henna applied too.

Suggested Attire

Colorful and casual — think bright greens, pinks, and oranges.

Haldi celebration

Day One — January 29

Haldi

The Haldi is a sacred and wonderfully chaotic ritual where a paste of turmeric, sandalwood, and rose water is applied to the bride and groom by family and friends. Turmeric is believed to purify and bless the couple before their wedding day. Expect laughter, colour, and a lot of yellow — all set in Devaaya's beautiful gardens.

Suggested Attire

Wear something you don't mind getting stained yellow — white or yellow works perfectly.

Sangeet celebration

Day One — January 29

Sangeet

The Sangeet is the celebratory evening of music and dance that brings both families together. There will be choreographed performances, live music, dinner, and plenty of dancing under the stars at Devaaya. It's one of the most fun and memorable nights of any Indian wedding.

Suggested Attire

Glamorous evening wear — sequins, bold colours, and cocktail attire are all welcome.

Baraat celebration

Day Two — January 30

Baraat

The Baraat is the groom's grand procession to the wedding venue. Simon will arrive on a decorated horse to the beat of a dhol drum, surrounded by family and friends dancing through Devaaya's gardens. It's a high-energy, joyful start to the main wedding day — everyone is encouraged to join the procession.

Suggested Attire

Festive Indian or smart Western attire — and comfortable shoes for dancing.

Wedding Ceremony celebration

Day Two — January 30

Wedding Ceremony

The main ceremony takes place under the mandap, a beautifully decorated canopy, with Devaaya's gardens and the Mandovi River as our backdrop. Key rituals include the Saat Phere — seven sacred rounds around the holy fire — each representing a vow between the couple. A priest will guide the ceremony and explain each ritual, so there's no need to worry about following along.

Suggested Attire

Formal Indian attire (saree, lehenga, or sherwani) or smart Western wear. Rich jewel tones are traditional and encouraged.

Reception celebration

Day Two — January 30

Reception

The Reception is our final celebration together — a relaxed and glamorous evening with dinner, speeches, and dancing. It's a chance for both families and all our guests to come together and toast the newlyweds in style at Devaaya's lawn venue.

Suggested Attire

Black tie or formal Indian attire. This is the most dressed-up event of the weekend.

Dress Code Guide

What to Wear

Whether you choose traditional Indian attire, Western formal wear, or a fusion of both, we want you to feel comfortable and celebratory. Here is everything you need to know.

Traditional Indian Attire

For those embracing the full experience

Women

A saree or lehenga in vibrant colors such as red, gold, pink, emerald green, or royal blue. Pair with statement jewelry, bangles, and embellished sandals. Avoid white, as it is traditionally reserved for mourning in Indian culture.

Men

A kurta-pajama or sherwani in rich tones like maroon, navy, or gold. Pair with mojari (traditional embroidered shoes) and a pocket square for a polished look.

Western Formal Attire

Equally welcome and celebrated

Women

A floor-length gown, cocktail dress, or elegant jumpsuit in jewel tones. Think emerald, sapphire, ruby red, or gold. Avoid all-white or all-black outfits out of respect for tradition.

Men

A tailored suit in navy, charcoal, or deep jewel tones. For the reception, consider a tuxedo. A colorful tie or pocket square adds a festive touch.

Fusion Style

The best of both worlds

Mix & Match

Pair a Western silhouette with Indian fabrics or accessories. A silk blazer with a kurta, a Western dress with Indian jewelry, or a suit with an embroidered stole all work beautifully.

Suggested Color Palette

Rich Reds

Traditional & auspicious

Emerald Green

Symbol of fertility & life

Gold & Saffron

Prosperity & purity

Royal Blue

Depth & tranquility

Bright Pink

Joy & celebration

Please Avoid

  • All-white outfits (associated with mourning)
  • All-black outfits (associated with sorrow)
  • Very casual clothing (shorts, flip-flops)

Plan Your Journey

Travel Information

Everything you need to know about getting to Devaaya Resort on Divar Island and making the most of your stay. We are here to help make your journey as smooth as possible.

Getting There from the UK

  • Direct flights from London Heathrow (LHR) and Gatwick (LGW) to Goa International Airport (GOI) are available seasonally with airlines like British Airways, TUI, and Wizz Air (approximately 9-10 hours).
  • Alternatively, fly to Mumbai (BOM) from most UK airports and take a short connecting domestic flight to Goa (approximately 1-1.5 hours). Airlines like Air India, Vistara, and IndiGo operate frequent connections.
  • We recommend arriving on January 28 or earlier to settle in and adjust to the time difference (India is 5.5 hours ahead of GMT).

Accommodation

  • All events will be hosted at Devaaya Resort (Mercure Goa Devaaya Retreat) on Divar Island. We have reserved a block of luxurious rooms at special rates for our guests. The resort features 56 rooms with Portuguese colonial décor, views of the Mandovi River and lush gardens.
  • Devaaya offers Maharaja & Maharani Suites, Deluxe Garden/River View Rooms, and Standard Rooms -- all with modern amenities and AC. The resort includes multiple restaurants, yoga pavilion, Ayurveda center, and beautiful 5-acre landscaped gardens.
  • Specific room booking details and group rates will be shared via email after you RSVP. We strongly recommend staying at the resort for the full experience and convenience.

Local Transport

  • We will arrange transportation between the hotel and all ceremony venues for guests.
  • Taxis and scooter rentals are readily available in Goa for personal exploration.
  • Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Ola work well in Goa, and the resort can arrange private cars.

Practical Tips

  • Currency: Indian Rupee (INR). ATMs are widely available. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants. Notify your UK bank before travelling to avoid blocked transactions.
  • Visa: UK passport holders require a visa. Apply for an e-Visa online well in advance at indianvisaonline.gov.in -- the process is straightforward and typically takes 3-5 business days.
  • Tipping: 10-15% at restaurants is customary. Small tips for hotel staff and drivers are appreciated.
  • UK plugs won't fit Indian sockets (Type C/D/M) -- bring a universal travel adapter.

Weather

  • January in Goa is peak season with beautiful warm weather -- daytime temperatures around 31-33 C (88-91 F) and pleasant evenings around 20-22 C (68-72 F). A welcome escape from the British winter!
  • Pack light, breathable clothing for daytime and elegant layers for evening events by the sea.
  • Sunscreen (high SPF), sunglasses, and a hat are essential -- the Goan sun is far stronger than it feels.

Health & Safety

  • Drink bottled water only. Bottled water will be provided at all events.
  • Check the NHS Fit for Travel website for recommended vaccinations and health advice before your trip.
  • Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended -- check that it covers India specifically.

Have questions about your trip?

Reach out to us at wedding@sonalsimon.wedding and we will be happy to help with any travel arrangements.

We Hope You Can Join Us

RSVP

Please let us know if you can make it by November 30, 2026. We cannot wait to celebrate with you.