Gurdwara etiquette

For the ceremony we will enter the main building and remove our shoes (socks are fine), then use a bandana or scarf to cover our heads. The top of the head should be mostly covered by the scarf, and it's ok if it slips sometimes just do your best! This is a conservative space, and so if you have bare shoulders or a short dress we ask that you wear a sweater, use a bigger scarf, and use leggings that can be shed for the reception. Then we will enter the ceremony hall where we will sit cross legged on the floor. If this is difficult, there is some limited cushioned benches at the back.

 

Sikhs and many non-Sikhs who come to a Gurudwara show respect by bowing to the teachings (and not a person) contained within the holy scripture "Guru Granth Sahib ji". Please note, bowing is not required, though if you choose to participate, it involves walking to the front, kneeling before the Holy scripture, and touching the head on the ground for a second or so. We will be sitting for approximately 45 minutes, but it is fine to walk out of the hall and stand in the nearby lobby to stretch legs if you need.

We hope you will attend the ceremony! After the ceremony please arrive at the reception venue no earlier than 4 pm. Drinks will be served below the hall after the ceremony where we will stand and some seats will be available.

 

The actual wedding ceremony will be explained by a gurdwara representative, but you are welcomed to explore and learn on your own. 

Here's a link to our gurdwara's website.