Mehndi

A pre-wedding gathering where henna is applied to the bride and guests, typically with music and food.

How it works in practice

A mehndi is usually smaller and more relaxed than a sangeet. It is often held at a family home, in a backyard or in a small hall, a day or two before the wedding. The bride may sit for henna for several hours while guests eat, sing and take turns with the henna artists. In some families the mehndi and sangeet are combined into one event.

The planning problem is time. Bridal henna is detailed work and needs to dry and set, so it often starts in the morning or early afternoon, well before guests arrive. Guest henna is quicker, but a line of 40 people waiting for designs can stall the party.

Worked numbers

Henna artists are booked by the hour. Ask each artist how many simple guest designs they can complete in an hour, because it varies widely with design size. As an illustration only: if an artist does about eight small designs an hour, and 40 guests want henna over a three-hour party, you need roughly two artists working the whole time. Always confirm each artist’s own pace before booking.

How to handle it

1. Book the bridal henna artist first; good artists fill wedding season early.
2. Ask about ingredients. Some guests react to additives; natural henna paste should be confirmed in writing.
3. Set up seating with cushions or low chairs, good light and a table for the artists.
4. Plan a place for guests to sit while henna dries, away from food and drink spills.
5. Arrange music: a dholki, singers, a strolling musician or a playlist.
6. Put a sign-up sheet or a simple queue system in place for guest henna.

In Ontario and the GTA

If the mehndi is in a hall or other unlicensed space and alcohol will be served, ask the AGCO which Special Occasion Permit applies; a private-event permit must be applied for at least 10 days ahead, and anyone serving must hold Smart Serve. In a backyard, a tent over 60 m² needs a building permit. Neighbours and the Toronto Noise Bylaw matter if amplified music runs late.