Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about ShadiMingle
❓General Questions
Q:What is ShadiMingle?
ShadiMingle is a cultural-exchange platform that connects foreigners and travelers who want to experience an authentic Indian wedding with hosts who are willing to invite them. Guests can attend real weddings, enjoy traditions, rituals, food, music, and celebrations safely and respectfully.
Q:How does ShadiMingle work?
Guests browse upcoming weddings listed by hosts. They request a booking and share their details. Hosts approve requests after reviewing profiles. Payment is processed securely through ShadiMingle. Guests receive wedding details, dress code, and etiquette guidelines. Guests attend and enjoy the experience.
Q:Is ShadiMingle safe?
Yes. All users undergo identity verification, profile checks, and manual vetting. Hosts also provide wedding details, venue verification, and contact numbers for safety.
🌏For Guests (Foreigners & Travelers)
Q:Who can attend an Indian wedding through ShadiMingle?
Anyone! Travelers, expats, backpackers, and culturally curious individuals above 18 years of age.
Q:Do I need to know Indian culture beforehand?
No—but we provide: A Cultural Etiquette Guide, Clothing recommendations, Ritual explanations, and Behavior guidelines. So you can participate comfortably.
Q:What will I experience during the wedding?
Depending on the wedding, you may experience: Mehendi (henna), Haldi ceremony, Sangeet (dance night), Baraat procession, Varmala, Wedding rituals, Traditional meals & sweets, and Family interaction. Each wedding is unique and based on the host family.
Q:Is it allowed for foreigners to attend Indian weddings?
Absolutely—yes! Indian weddings are social and cultural events, and many families enjoy having guests.
Q:What should I wear?
After confirming your booking, we provide: Dress code (traditional or semi-formal), Color suggestions, and What not to wear. If needed, we help guests rent or buy Indian outfits.
Q:Can I take photos and videos?
Yes—but only in permitted areas and after asking the host. Some rituals may be private.
Q:How long does the experience last?
Usually 2–6 hours per event. Multi-day weddings may include all or selective functions depending on the booking.
Q:Will I be expected to give gifts?
No gift is required, but small souvenirs from your country are appreciated.
Q:Is food included?
Yes! Guests enjoy traditional wedding food unless mentioned otherwise.
Q:Will alcohol be served?
It depends on the wedding and the family's cultural background. Details will be mentioned in the listing.
🏠For Hosts (Families & Couples)
Q:Who can become a host on ShadiMingle?
Any Indian family organizing a wedding who is happy to welcome foreign guests in a respectful and secure manner.
Q:Why should hosts invite guests?
Cultural exchange, Unique wedding memories, Extra income, Opportunity to showcase Indian traditions, and Meeting people from around the world.
Q:What details does a host need to provide?
Wedding dates & events, Venue details, Dress code, Ritual summary, Safety contacts, Maximum number of guests allowed, and Photos of the venue / past functions.
Q:Can we reject a booking request?
Yes—hosts can accept or decline based on comfort and preference.
Q:Does hosting affect the privacy of our wedding?
Not at all. Hosts can specify: Which events guests can attend, Where photography is allowed, and Interaction rules.
🔒Safety & Verification
Q:Are guests verified?
Yes. Guests must complete: Identity verification, Social profile check, and Basic safety questionnaire.
Q:Are hosts verified?
Yes, we verify: Contact numbers, Wedding venue details, ID proof of host, and Authenticity of the event.
Q:How do I know the wedding is real?
Each host is screened, and their event details are verified manually before listing.
💳Payments & Pricing
Q:How much does it cost to attend a wedding?
Each host sets their own price based on: Location, Event size, Food included, and Number of functions. Prices are clearly shown on the listing.
Q:How is payment handled?
Payments are processed securely through ShadiMingle. Guests do not pay the host directly.
Q:Is there a refund policy?
Yes: Full refund if host cancels. Partial refund if guest cancels within permitted time. No refund for last-minute cancellations (see policy).
Q:Do hosts earn money?
Yes—hosts receive payment for each guest after the event is completed successfully.
📅Booking Process
Q:How do I book a wedding experience?
Browse weddings, Select one, Submit a booking request, Provide identification, Wait for host approval, Make payment, and Receive confirmation & wedding details.
Q:Can I attend multiple functions?
Yes! Some listings include multiple functions like Mehendi, Haldi, Sangeet, and Wedding Day.
Q:Can I attend with friends?
Yes—subject to the host's capacity limit.
Q:What if the host makes changes to event timing?
You will receive updates on email and WhatsApp instantly.
🙏Cultural Etiquette & Rules
Q:Do I need to follow any cultural rules?
Yes—basic respect is expected: Follow dress code, Ask before taking photos, Do not drink in alcohol-free weddings, Respect gender-separated areas (if any), and Follow the host family's guidance.
Q:Can I participate in rituals?
In many weddings, hosts love involving guests in fun rituals—like dancing in the Baraat or applying Haldi. The host will guide you.
⚖️Legal & Policy
Q:Is attending an Indian wedding through ShadiMingle legal?
Yes. ShadiMingle facilitates cultural experiences; it is not a commercial religious service.
Q:Is insurance provided?
Guests are advised to carry travel or medical insurance. ShadiMingle does not provide insurance currently.
Q:How is privacy protected?
Personal details of guests and hosts are never shared publicly. Only approved bookings exchange necessary info.
💬After the Event
Q:Can I leave reviews?
Yes, guests and hosts can rate each other after the experience.
Q:Can I stay in touch with the host family?
Yes, if both sides wish to maintain connection—it often becomes a long-lasting friendship!
Q:Can I share photos online?
Yes—only if the host has allowed photography and the photos respect privacy.
🛠️Technical Support
Q:What if I face issues while booking?
Our support team is available via: Live chat, Email support, and WhatsApp assistance.
Q:How do I change my booking details?
Contact support or message the host directly through the chat system.
💬Still have questions?
We're here to help! Contact our support team anytime.