Each ritual in a Gujarati wedding holds meanings that bless the couple with wealth, joy and a harmonious marriage. From the Varghodo to the Aeki Baki ceremonies, these traditions signify respect, acceptance and family bonds. The Jaimala represents commitment, while the Madhuparka ritual showcases the bride's family's love for the groom. The emotional Kanyadaan ceremony symbolises parents' trust in entrusting their daughter to her husband.

Mangal Pheras and Saptapadi are central to the ceremony, symbolising promises of love and loyalty, not just in this life but for seven lifetimes. The Sindoor Daan and mangalsutra mark the bride’s marital status, while vidaai and Ghar ni Laxmi rituals mark her transition from her parental home to her new married life.

When it comes to wedding looks, brides in Gujarat adorn ensembles that carry symbolic meanings that reflect their roots and family values authentically.

The Panetar saree takes centre stage in the bride’s ensemble on her wedding day. This special saree is customarily given to the bride by her uncle. The Panetar stands out with its off-white base, symbolising purity, and its vibrant red border and pallu represent good fortune and happiness in marriage. Crafted from gajji silk, which is renowned for its soft feel and lustrous appearance, the saree’s red border is often embellished with intricate zari work, embroidery and traditional bandhani patterns created through a tie-and-dye technique for stunning and one-of-a kind designs.

Accompanying the Panetar is the Gharchola dupatta, a gift from the mother-in-law. This dupatta is typically crafted from a silk cotton blend featuring a grid pattern made using zari and cut dana work. The Gharchola usually comes in shades of green, draped over the Panetar saree, often covering the bride’s head and shoulders. The blend of Panetar and Gharchola represents the merging of traditions and affection from both families, bridging the gap between the bride’s life at home and her new journey into marital life.

Banarasi sarees, renowned for their silk material and detailed gold and silver brocade embellishments are another popular pick. Bandhani sarees are also highly favored, showcasing the timeless tie and dye technique that creates colorful patterns. The vivid hues of Bandhani sarees infuse an joyful vibe into the brides outfit.

The attire that grooms from Gujarat wear embodies a fusion of sophistication and contemporary flair that complements the brides ornate attire. The groom typically wears a dhoti paired with a kurta. The dhoti, a cloth wrapped around the waist and legs often crafted from silk or cotton with elaborate designs or borders, symbolises purity and simplicity. The kurta, a tunic adorned with embroidery, zari work or mirror work adds an air of royalty. Draping the intricate dhoti can be quite elaborate; it is commonly matched with a traditional tunic—for a classic look. Many modern grooms prefer donning a sherwani, typically crafted from materials such as silk, brocade or velvet and adorned with intricate zari, beadwork or stones to create a majestic and elegant look befitting the splendour of Gujarat weddings. The sherwani is commonly paired with churidar pants, which are snug-fitting trousers that taper at the ankles offering a sleek and graceful silhouette.

Another popular option is the Bandhgala, also known as a Jodhpuri suit. This ensemble features a high neck jacket with a collar often embellished with detailed embroidery or decorations matched with coordinating trousers for a noble appeal. The pagdi or turban is an element symbolising dignity and reverence. Crafted from silk or brocade fabric, it can be embellished with gems, feathers, or zari work to complement the groom’s attire and enhance the royal aesthetic. The groom may also wear a sehra — a veil made of flowers or beads that covers his face — as a symbol of protection against ill omens. To add a touch of sophistication and complete the ensemble, a dupatta or stole is often draped over the groom’s shoulders.

Contemporary twists on clothing feature tailored suits or tuxedos especially popular for receptions due to their refined and modern charm. Suits can be personalised with accents like embroidery or paired with ethnic accessories to fuse tradition with contemporary flair. Fusion wear is gaining popularity well; grooms blend elements of traditional and western attire by combining a sherwani with formal trousers or pairing a kurta with a blazer. This fusion approach allows grooms to uphold traditions while embracing current fashion trends.

Headpieces like mathapatti or damani are choices resting elegantly on the bride’s forehead and embellished with precious gems and detailed patterns. The damani stands out with its design featuring loops that connect to the hair through a central chain. For earrings, the bride may ot for something traditional such as Kundan Butti are pieces adorned with intricate kundan work and often supported by chains connecting to the hair for stability.

Necklaces play an important role in completing the bride’s ensemble, with multiple pieces like the Chandan Haar symbolising wealth and prosperity in heavy gold designs. The Dodi necklace showcases meenakari and kundan craftsmanship. Bangles like Kundan Bangdi and Patla adorn the bride’s wrists, encrusted in Kundan work and featuring gem-studded detailing. The Kandora, a waistbelt, not only secures the bride’s saree but also accentuates the look. Anklets called Todi grace the bride’s ankles delicately, often embellished with bells. 

Although not as extravagant as the bride’s attire, the groom’s jewellery holds significance. Common pieces include a kantha (necklace) made of gold or pearls and a brooch fastened to the sherwani. Additionally, the groom may sport a kamarbandh (waistband) to enhance the regal appearance. Gujarati grooms often opt for mojris or juttis as their footwear choice. These handmade leather shoes are embellished with embroidery, beads or sequins for both comfort and style, with designs and colours coordinated to complement the groom's ensemble.