Lack of Communication

One of the primary reasons behind mandap mishaps is a lack of clear communication. Make sure you’re on the same page with your decorator and venue coordinator. Discuss your vision, expectations, and any specific requirements.

Tip: Create a detailed checklist and share it with your decorator and venue coordinator. Regularly check in with them during the planning process to ensure everyone is aligned. We provide unlimited consultations to our couples, as well as a site visit, to ensure that every detail is considered and nailed down before the big day.

Weather Woes

If you’re having an outdoor wedding, the weather can be unpredictable. Rain, wind, or extreme temperatures can disrupt your dream outdoor mandap setup..

Tip: Always have a backup plan. Speak to your venue coordinator about your wet day plan. Is there an option to have the wedding inside if needed? Is there a marquee or canopy available to protect the mandap and guests from the elements should there be bad weather? Check the weather forecast and be prepared to make last-minute adjustments if needed. We always keep an eye on the weather from 10 days before the wedding and have a concrete Plan A and Plan B option that can be easily deployed as needed.

Timing Troubles

Delays in setting up the mandap can lead to chaos and stress on your wedding day. Timing is everything. The last thing you want is your priest waiting to set-up under the mandap, and a delay in welcoming the Jaan.

Tip: Create a well-defined itinerary. Speak to your decorator to ensure they have access to the venue with enough time to spare for unexpected delays. Consider a rehearsal to streamline the process. In your itinerary map out access times, Jaan arrival outside, and into the mandap too, the timings may differ if everyone is having breakfast first. We offer site visits to map out entry access and learn about any restrictions. Some venues have specific requirements and access preferences that we adhere to if required. 

Decor Disasters

Sometimes, the decor doesn’t match your vision, or elements don’t come together as planned.

Tip: Have a mock setup or a detailed design plan well in advance. Work closely with your decorator to select decor elements that align with your vision. Don’t hesitate to make adjustments as needed. We recommend a couple of design sessions to go through colours and styling of the mandap. It’s important to stress though, if you’re using Pinterest moodboards, sometimes the real deal will look very different to your Pinterest board – make sure you’re fully aligned with your decorated on the details.

Venue Regulations

Each venue may have specific rules and restrictions when it comes to mandap setup.

Tip: Review your venue’s guidelines thoroughly and share them with your decorator. Ensure your decorator is familiar with the venue’s rules and can adapt your mandap design accordingly. For example, some venues will require flooring protection if the building is listed e.g. Kew Gardens (click here for our blog on mandap design in the Nash Conservatory at Kew Gardens). We’ve also had venues have specific requirements for the open fire during the hindu ceremony – always check these and have your responses in writing.

Unforeseen Obstacles

Sometimes, you might encounter unforeseen obstacles at the venue, like uneven ground or limited space.

Tip: Visit the venue with your decorator beforehand to identify potential challenges. Be open to adjustments and trust your decorator’s expertise in solving unexpected issues. Staging and certain mandap designs can easily accommodate uneven ground but keep your decorators in the loop and arrange a joint site visit.

Vendor Coordination

Poor coordination between vendors can lead to mishaps.

Tip: Designate a point person or hire a wedding planner to coordinate between the decorator, florist, lighting team, and other vendors. This ensures everyone works seamlessly together. It’s like an orchestra and the conductor can help ensure everyone is delivering their pieces to tune.

By addressing these potential mandap mishaps proactively, you can minimise stress and enjoy a flawless setup for your wedding ceremony. Check out our recent blog on the Top 20 questions to ask your wedding venue (from the Decor perspective) which might also be a useful guide for you. There’s no reason why you can’t have the mandap of your dreams!

I hope this list of tips was helpful to you. 

All the best, 

Rina