why are there so many rsvp links? its confusing!
There are only two RSVP forms:
- we request everyone to fill regular rsvp form.
- for people who aren't based in Ames, IA, we ask you to also fill the out-of-town rsvp, can make sure your needs are met.
These two forms linked over and over on the website just to make sure everyone fills it/them out and no one misses either. The straw poll is an optional fun form so we can get an idea of what arriving guests would like, so we can make sure the event is fun for everyone.
the wedding starts at 7am? SEVEN IN THE MORNING?
Well, yes.
The traditional Iyengar wedding has a number of rituals, and lasts about five hours. If you are interested in seeing all of it, then you should plan on being there at 7am.
If you want to only witness the actual moments equivalent of the western wedding, that would be from 9:30am to 10:30am (the 'muhurtam')
this is a lot of stuff. do I HAVE to show up for it all?
Wellll... it's up to you. Just let us know (rsvp here) if you are unable to, or would rather not attend one or more event.
I would strongly recommend that you come to the actual wedding (the 'muhurtam' or the auspicious time is between 9:30am and 10:30am on August 29th).
what if I don't have/want to wear Indian/western attire?
That's just fine! The listing of the attire with the events is just a guide to tell you what to expect from the majority of guests. If you are not comfortable with the stated styles, feel free to wear what you want. Yes, even a clown costume!
The most important thing for us is for everyone to be comfortable and to have fun!
where can I find Indian attire?
Indian clothing shops are all over the place - you can certainly find them in Ann Arbor, MI; Chicago, IL; and in many places in NJ. You could also look into utsavfashion.com
If you are part of the bridal party or if you would like the bride to acquire Indian attire for you, please contact her, and we'll do our best!
If you are a guest and need help with tying on a sari, please also let us know. We do not have a problem with this, we'd just like to know how many people to account for.
crowds of people make me nervous. are you going to have a quiet room?
This is an Indian wedding, so crowds are inevitable. But since both Michael and I are introverts, we understand the need for space. We'll certainly find easy-to-reach quiet spots for you. At this point, I'm really not sure how we'll manage a quiet room, but the spots? Sure. We'll update the about Ames page of our website as we get more precise information - and as always, don't hesitate to call and check with us beforehand if you need.
wait, you have a five hour break between events on 29th? what am I supposed to do?
May I suggest a nap? You would probably have been up and at the event for five hours during the morning, after all. And remember, the 'five hour break' doesn't include luncheon time. We will have spaces for you to hang out in that period.
If you are one of the high energy types, kudos to you. There's stuff to do in Ames: a list will be up on the about Ames page as soon as I have it compiled. You can even choose to skip the reception (but if you do, please let us know!)
If you are part of the bridal party, you do not actually have a break at all. There is getting ready for the reception, teasing the couple, and picture taking to do! Specifics will be emailed to you.