How to Plan a Mehndi or Sangeet
Often the most fun night of the wedding, and often the least planned. How to plan the space, the artists, the music, the food and the timings.
By Sharonelle, Founder & Events Director
· 3 min read
Mehndi, sangeet or both?
Traditions vary between families and communities. The mehndi centres on henna, often with music and dancing, while the sangeet is a night of music, performances and celebration. Some families combine them into one evening, and others hold them on separate days. Agree with both families which events you're holding and who's invited to each.
At home or at a venue?
| At home | At a venue | |
|---|---|---|
| Guest numbers | Usually smaller | Can take large numbers |
| Atmosphere | Intimate, family-led | Bigger party, room to dance |
| What's needed | Marquee or cleared rooms, hire furniture, lighting, toilets for larger groups | Usually provided |
| Noise and finish time | Neighbours | Venue rules |
| Catering | Any caterer; home kitchen or a portable kitchen | Check whether outside caterers are allowed |
At-home events need the same infrastructure planning as a home wedding; see our marquee and home wedding checklist.
Henna artists
- Book early, especially for summer weekends
- Agree how long the bride's henna will take; detailed designs can take several hours
- Decide how many guests will have henna, and book enough artists
- Plan comfortable seating, good lighting and space for the artists
- Allow time for henna to dry before guests eat or dance
Décor and seating
Mehndis are known for colour: florals, drapes, cushions, low seating and festoon lighting. Plan a focal point for the bride, comfortable seating for older relatives, and a clear space for dancing. Our event styling service covers the design and the suppliers who deliver it.
Music and performances
- Book the DJ or musicians, and agree the playlist with both families
- Schedule family performances in a running order, with the music cued
- Make sure there's sound and a microphone for speeches or announcements
- Check noise limits and finish times, at home or at the venue
Food
Mehndi food is usually relaxed: street food, chaat and finger food that guests can eat easily, especially with drying henna. Sangeets often suit live stations and party food. See our Indian wedding catering menus guide for ideas and dietary planning, and remember the bride and anyone with fresh henna may need to be fed by someone else.
A simple running order
- Setup and décor, with time for artists to set up
- Bride's henna begins, often before guests arrive
- Guests arrive; music and drinks
- Guest henna and food service
- Performances and speeches
- Dancing
- Finish time and clear-down
Nelle has coordinated Mayian and pre-wedding ceremonies at family homes, and plans Indian and multicultural weddings as one plan across every event.
Questions answered
How long does bridal henna take?
Detailed bridal designs can take several hours, plus drying time, so many brides start before guests arrive. Agree timings with your henna artist when you book.
Can a mehndi be held at home?
Yes, and many are. Larger home mehndis need planning for space, seating, lighting, toilets and, often, a marquee, as well as the neighbours.
What food is served at a mehndi?
Usually relaxed food such as chaat, street food and finger food that's easy to eat, often with chai and sweets. Plan for guests whose hands are covered in henna.