Amidst all the religious customs and elaborate rituals, the reception is a simple, straightforward party. It’s a celebration of the bride and groom that makes them feel special and loved before they take the plunge. 

The couple also gets to spend time with their family and friends, bringing some much-needed calm in the lead-up to the Assamese wedding day. 

For her reception, the traditional bride wears a Mekhela Chador, pronounced 'Mekhla Sador', a two-piece ensemble that is similar to a saree. It has a thick skirt with pleats in the front, called Mekhela, and an upper garment, Chador, that is tucked into the skirt and draped over the shoulder. Traditionally, the bride ties a garment called Riha around her chest. Although, most modern brides prefer to wear a fitted blouse. 

The Mekhela Chador is typically made from Muga, Pat, or Eri silk and embroidered with heavy gold and silver zari. While ivory or off-white colours are the traditional choice, the bridal ensemble can also come in pastel shades, reds, and greens. The designs in her outfit are often inspired by Assamese flora, fauna, and folklore, as well as local Jaapi and Gamosa motifs.

However, modern brides have the freedom to explore alternatives as well. A popular choice is the designer saree with an embroidered blouse. Made from silk, georgette, satin, or net – the designer saree is a glamorous and fashion-forward look. She can also go for a gorgeous lehenga set with a flared skirt with a matching blouse and dupatta. Assamese lehengas are often decorated with embroidery, sequins, or intricate handwork. The Anarkali set is also an excellent choice. With its long, flowing silhouette with a fitted bodice, the Anarkali looks elegant on all brides. It offers a touch of traditional while still leaving space for individual style. 

The traditional groom wears a kurta and dhoti for his reception, accessorised with a Cheleng, a traditional Muga silk shawl draped around the neck and minimal gold chains and rings. For a more contemporary look, he can wear an embroidered Nehru Jacket or Bundi Jacket over a silk kurta. For a truly suave, showstopping look, he can wear an Embroidered Sherwani, complete with a stole and traditional juttis.

An Assamese bride can choose a mix of traditional and contemporary jewellery for her reception look. Traditional pieces include Jonbiri, a stunning gold necklace with a moon-shaped pendant encrusted with precious gemstones like rubies, emeralds, or pearls. She can also wear Dholbiri, a unique necklace with silk beaded threads and a drum-shaped kundan pendant, along with other necklaces like Golpata, Kerumoni, and Loka Paro, each with its own intricate design. These traditional necklaces can be layered with a more contemporary statement necklace or diamond choker. 

Brides also opt for gold chandbalis, jhumkas, or Thuria stud earrings with an Assamese Matha Tikka. For her wrists, she can pair Gamkharus, thick gold bangles, with thinner gold and glass bangles. Traditionally, her hair is put up in a bun or braid and decorated with fresh flowers, hairpins, and delicate chains. She can also go for certain contemporary hairstyles such as loose curls, side-swept waves, or messy updos for a more modern look that complements her outfit.