When to order, when to stitch the blouse and what to try on before the big day. A simple timeline for brides and their families.
A wedding saree needs more lead time than most people expect. Work backwards from the date.
Eight weeks before
Choose the saree. Handloom silks are woven in small numbers, so the colour you love may not be restocked. Order the petticoat in a matched shade at the same time.
Six weeks before
Send the blouse piece for stitching. Decide the neckline, sleeve length and whether you want padding, and share fresh measurements, not last year's.
Three weeks before
Do a full trial with the blouse, petticoat, footwear and accessories. Check the hem length with your heels on and mark where the pallu should be pinned.
One week before
Have the saree steam pressed, not ironed directly. Keep it on a padded hanger or folded flat in muslin.
On the day
Keep a small kit ready: a dozen safety pins, a needle with matching thread, double-sided tape and a spare hook for the blouse.
One last thing
If someone else is draping for you, do one practice drape with them in advance. It saves twenty minutes on the morning that matters.
