In Kerala wedding receptions are significant as they mark the start of a journey for the couple and celebrate the merging of two families. It's a time for socialising, forging connections and sharing joy—a reflection of Kerala’s warm culture.

Hospitality and generosity play roles in receptions as families host feasts to ensure every guest is well taken care of and entertained. This act serves as a gesture of appreciation and goodwill towards all attendees. The tradition of hospitality holds importance in Kerala’s culture, where welcoming and looking after guests is considered both a duty and an honour.

Furthermore, the reception provides an opportunity for the couple to receive blessings and good wishes from a circle of relatives and friends. This collective gathering underscores that marriage is not about joining two individuals; it symbolises the merging of two families and communities. The presence of elders offering their blessings holds significance, symbolising approval and support from family and community.

Beyond its significance, the reception serves a practical purpose. The newlywed couple can interact with their guests, show appreciation for their presence, and create memories. The formal photography session and candid moments captured during the reception serve as keepsakes reflecting the joy and celebration of their day.

Reception ensembles in Kerala combine traditional charm with flair, allowing the bride and groom to honour their cultural roots while showcasing their individual style preferences.

Typically, the bride wears a saree at the reception to symbolise grace and cultural heritage. Among the favoured choices is the Kasavu saree, a Kerala attire known for its cream-coloured fabric adorned with a border. Crafted from cotton or silk, this saree symbolises purity and prosperity, making it an ideal selection for occasions. Its history traces to temple weavers in Kerala, who designed these sarees for temple dancers and deities. The intricate gold border adds a touch of sophistication to the bride’s appearance.

Apart from sarees, many brides nowadays prefer ensembles like lehengas, anarkalis or designer gowns. Lehengas, known for their embellishments and vibrant hues, bring a touch of glamour to wedding receptions. These outfits are often crafted from fabrics like silk, satin, and velvet and decorated with sequins, beads, and zari work. Anarkalis are embroidered dresses that blend traditional charm with contemporary flair, appealing to brides seeking comfort and sophistication. Designer gowns featuring beadwork and lace offer a take on bridal fashion while honouring cultural traditions.

When it comes to the groom's attire for the reception, there is a blend of timeless tradition and modern sophistication. A popular choice is the Mundu—a white cotton dhoti adorned with a border—that exudes simplicity and refinement suitable for such events. The Mundu is commonly worn with a shirt known as a Mundu Shirt or a Jubba, completing the look. This garment holds significance tracing back to times in Kerala, where it was embraced by people from all walks of life and symbolised simplicity and purity.

Besides the Mundu, many grooms opt for contemporary outfits like tailored suits or sherwanis. A fitted suit in timeless shades like black, navy or grey adds an element of elegance to the groom’s ensemble. These suits are often matched with a shirt, a tie or bow tie and stylish accessories such as cufflinks and a pocket square. Sherwanis are long coats embellished with embroidery worn over trousers, providing a refined option. Crafted from fabrics like silk or brocade and adorned with designs, sherwanis are favoured choices for wedding receptions.

Guests attending the reception also showcase a blend of traditional and contemporary styles. Women typically wear sarees, salwar kameez sets or lehengas featuring hues and intricate patterns. The sarees may include Kasavu, Kanchipuram silk sarees, among variations that reflect the wearer's cultural heritage and grace. Salwar kameez sets offer a stylish option with a tunic top, pants and a matching scarf that often features lovely embroidery and beadwork. For those looking for glamour, lehengas are a choice due to their modern designs and vibrant colours.

Men typically wear kurtas paired with dhotis or trousers, usually crafted from silk or cotton and adorned with embroidery. Some guests may also choose to wear Western-style suits, looking sharp and sophisticated for the celebration.