Wedding bells ring in big business

It's that time of the year when vows are exchanged and knots are tied. And this also is the boom time for jewellers, caterers, decorators and designers of Ahmedabad.

Wedding planners, as they call themselves, expect a 40-50 per cent rise in business during the current marriage season. Several such service providers have propped up, who offer a wide range of marriage requirement.

"We have launched 40 to 50 new designs in our 'dulha collection' this time." says Harish Vyas, general manager, Jade Blue. Grooms don't mind opening their money purse for the most important day of their life.

Designers say that grooms are asking for designer turbans, 'khes' and scarves. "People have become very conscious about their attire," opines Ashwin Shah, manager, Deepkala junction, Satellite.

A look around would tell you why they are so enthusiastic about the season. This year silk, crap saris and chaniya cholis are in with traditional colours such as red and white having heavy embroidery on them. men prefer sherwanis for wedding ceremony and suits for the reception thereafter.

The designer suits and saris cost you anywhere from Rs 5,000 to 50,000.

"The change can be seen in jewellery as well," reveals Chandresh Zaveri, owner of Zaveri and Co. Girls prefer

sparkling diamonds and kundan for their wedding along with white gold. Light jewellery is also in demand.

The market for imitation jewellery is also high. The variety and the affordable prices attract many customers to the imitation market, says Zaveri.

"Juttis (traditional footwear) with beads and jardosi work is in, this season," says Sameer Sud, owner of Big Boots. People are going trendy this season with unusual designs and bright colours like, red, green and pink which in turn is a good sign for the foot wear industry. However, the trend this year does not favour high heels, as flat heeled chappals are being sought after. However, black is always in, for men and women.

"Though people gorge on Mexican, Italian, Hungarian or Japanese food, they always prefer traditional Gujarati food for their marriage reception," says Gordhanbhai Purohit, managing director of Gordhan Thal who caters, on an average 8 to 10 parties during the marriage season. "The demand is such that we have to be ready with 25 to 30 new dishes every time, he adds.

"Theme and designer weddings have started a new trend in the city," says Sharvil Dave, an event manager. People are actually paying attention to minute details of the wedding which includes lights, sets and other arrangements.