As summer approaches, you might find yourself invited to a wedding in the U.S.—maybe a classmate’s, a co-worker’s, or a friend’s. For many, this will be your first invitation to this specific celebration of love in America and may give you pause, unsure of what to expect.

Unlike Indian weddings—which can span multiple days, include dozens of ceremonies, and often involve hundreds (if not thousands!) of guests—American weddings are usually shorter, more minimalist, and vary widely depending on region, religion, and personal taste.

In this newsletter, we’ll walk you through what to expect if you’re attending an American wedding this summer—from the ceremony and customs to the dress code, gift-giving, and social etiquette.

The Basics: Structure of an American Wedding

One of the biggest differences you'll notice is American weddings are usually a one-day event, or at most a weekend. It's very unlikely to have multi-day events with many rituals. On the day of the event, most American weddings follow a fairly standard structure, though the exact elements can vary depending on whether it’s a religious or civil ceremony.

The Ceremony

• Timeframe: Typically 20–45 minutes long.
• Location: Could be held in a church, outdoor garden, beach, hotel, or even a backyard.
• Content: Includes vows, exchange of rings, a reading or two, and music. Some may include religious prayers or traditions, too.
• Size: Generally, this is a more intimate gathering of 50-200 people.

The formality will depend on the couple and their personalities. Some weddings may be casual and quirky, others more traditional and solemn. If you know the couple getting married, you can probably predict what kind of wedding it will be.

The Reception

This is the celebratory part—usually held right after the ceremony or later that evening. It often includes:

• Cocktail hour
• Plated dinner or buffet-style meal
• Toasts and speeches
• Cake cutting ceremony
• Dancing and entertainment

Tip: Unlike in India, guests at the wedding typically do not eat before the ceremony. Come with a light snack in your stomach if the ceremony starts mid-day and dinner isn’t until the evening!

What to Wear: Decoding the Dress Code

Weddings in the U.S. often include a dress code on the invitation. Here’s what those terms usually mean:

1. Formal / Black Tie

• For men: Dark suit or tuxedo
• For women: Floor-length gown or elegant cocktail dress

2. Semi-Formal / Cocktail Attire

• For men: Button-down shirt, tie, and blazer (suit optional)
• For women: Knee-length or midi-length dresses, jumpsuits, or skirts and blouses

3. Casual

• This usually means “smart casual,” not jeans and a t-shirt.
• For men: Polo or button-down shirt with slacks or khakis
• For women: Sundress or a nice blouse with trousers

Tips for Indian Attendees:

• You can wear Indian attire, but opt for simple styles. Think solid-color kurtas or Indo-Western fusion outfits—not wedding-level lehengas or sherwanis unless it's a South Asian wedding.
• Avoid wearing white to a wedding (in the U.S., white is reserved for the bride).
• Also avoid all-black outfits unless it’s explicitly noted—it can be seen as funereal in tone.

Gift-Giving Etiquette

Unlike Indian weddings where cash is often handed over in a decorative envelope, American couples usually create a wedding registry—an online list of gifts they would like (kitchen appliances, home decor, etc.).

• Always check the wedding invitation or website for a link to the couple's registry.
• Gifts are often shipped directly to the couple’s home, but it is also appropriate to bring the nicely wrapped gift to the wedding ceremony.
• If no registry is available, a gift card to a major store (Target, Amazon, Bed Bath & Beyond) or to the couple's favorite restaurant is totally acceptable.
• Cash gifts via check are also fine—but less common.

What’s Expected of Guests?

American weddings generally expect guests to:

• RSVP by the deadline—yes, it really matters. Space and food are often based on headcounts.
• Arrive on time. A good rule of thumb is to arrive 10-15 minutes before the time on the invitation to allow time to be seated, often by an assigned usher.
• Keep phones silent. Especially during the ceremony.
• Avoid recording unless invited. Many couples hire videographers and prefer guests to just enjoy the moment.

At the reception:

• Food! If you were asked your meal preference at the time of RSVP, the food will be a plated meal. If not, it will likely be a buffet. If you don’t drink, no one will mind, but be aware that many American weddings include open bars.
• Wait to be offered cake. The bride and groom often do a cake cutting ceremony and cake will be served afterward. Whatever you do, do not cut yourself a piece of cake!
• Be attentive during speeches. Often the Best Man, Maid of Honor, and parents of the Bride and Groom will make short speeches during the reception. You may continue to eat during this time, but it is seen as rude if you are talking while speeches are being given.
• Be ready to dance! It’s usually expected and part of the fun!

Photo Booths, Party Favors & Other Fun Traditions

American weddings often include quirky personal touches:

• Photo booths with props
• Custom drinks or desserts
• Guestbooks or “Advice for the Couple” stations
• Party favors (small keepsakes like candles, candies, or bottle openers)

If you're invited to participate in a wedding party (as a groomsman or bridesmaid), expect a deeper involvement—like pre-wedding events, buying specific outfits, and even giving a toast. If you’re unsure, just ask what’s expected!

If you’re invited to a U.S. wedding this summer, say yes! It’s a beautiful way to experience American culture, make memories, and maybe even shake a leg on the dance floor.

Attending a wedding in the U.S. isn’t just about seeing two people get married—it’s a great opportunity to:

• Learn more about American customs
• Network with friends, professors, or colleagues in a social setting
• Celebrate a big life milestone in a new cultural context
• Share aspects of your own background (guests will love hearing about Indian wedding traditions too!)

If you’re close with the couple or their family, consider offering a small Indian cultural gesture—like a handmade card with a message in Hindi, or bringing an Indian dessert to a pre-wedding event. Little touches like this go a long way in building connections.

Don’t stress about getting every detail right—Americans are generally relaxed about guests, especially international ones. Your presence, respect, and willingness to join in the fun is what matters most.