By Kunal Shanker, General Manager, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach
One of the most interesting shifts in the wedding industry today is not the size of weddings, but the way couples are choosing to structure them.
For years, wedding functions followed a fairly predictable format. The Mehendi, Sangeet, wedding ceremony, and reception often took place in similar settings, with the focus largely centred on scale and logistics. Today, however, couples are approaching wedding planning much like they would curate a travel itinerary or a lifestyle experience. Each function is expected to have its own personality, mood, and purpose.
As a result, we are seeing a growing demand for venues that can offer variety within a single destination.
A Mehendi by the pool has a very different energy from a sunset cocktail gathering overlooking the sea. Likewise, a beachfront ceremony creates a completely different atmosphere compared to an evening reception under the stars. Couples are consciously selecting spaces that complement the emotion of each event rather than adapting every function to the same venue format.
This evolution is being driven by a generation that places a high value on experiences. Modern couples are not necessarily looking to make weddings bigger; they are looking to make them more meaningful. They want their guests to remember how the celebration felt, not just how it looked.
This has also influenced the growing popularity of poolside Mehendis. Traditionally viewed as a daytime function, the Mehendi has transformed into one of the most interactive events during a wedding celebration. Poolside settings naturally encourage a more relaxed environment, allowing guests to move freely, engage with entertainment, and enjoy longer, more informal interactions. It feels less structured and more social, which is exactly what many couples are seeking.
Similarly, sundowner receptions have emerged as one of the most requested formats across wedding venues. Unlike traditional banquet receptions, these celebrations benefit from an atmosphere that evolves naturally throughout the evening. The transition from daylight to sunset and then into a celebratory night creates a sense of progression that guests genuinely enjoy. It also allows couples to incorporate live music, curated dining experiences, and personalised entertainment in a way that feels organic rather than programmed.
Another factor shaping these choices is the growing influence of destination-style thinking. Not every couple wants a destination wedding in the traditional sense. Many are looking for venues that deliver the same sense of escape while remaining accessible for family and friends. This is where properties that combine accommodation, dining, leisure facilities, and multiple event spaces are increasingly gaining preference.
We are also witnessing greater interest in weekend wedding formats, where celebrations extend beyond a few hours into a complete guest experience. Families are arriving earlier, spending more time together, and treating the wedding as a shared getaway rather than a sequence of scheduled events. The focus is shifting towards hospitality in its truest sense, creating opportunities for connection.
Food and beverage have become central to this evolution. Couples are spending more time curating menus, signature cocktails, interactive dining concepts, and entertainment that reflects their personalities. Every function is being designed with a distinct identity rather than following a standard template.
Ultimately, the weddings that stand out today are not necessarily the largest. They are the ones that feel personal, thoughtfully curated, and true to the couple celebrating them. That, more than anything else, is defining the next chapter of wedding celebrations in India.
The post From Poolside Mehendis to Sundowner Receptions: New Wedding Formats Couples Love appeared first on Wedding Vows.
