A Step-by-Step Guide to Hosting a Mehndi at Home in the UK

Planning and Preparation for a Home Mehndi

Hosting a Mehndi at home in the UK takes careful planning to create the right atmosphere while keeping the event organised and stress-free. This section covers the early steps so you can set the foundation for a smooth celebration.

Step 1. Set Your Date and Guest List

Start by deciding on the date at least three months in advance. This gives enough time to arrange suppliers and send invitations.

• Pick a weekday evening or weekend depending on your family’s schedule and religious commitments
• Avoid busy holiday periods or large local events that affect parking and traffic
• Keep weather in mind for outdoor seating or marquee setups

Make your guest list early. Separate into close family, extended family, and friends. For home events, aim for a guest count that matches your available space. In the UK, most home Mehndis range from 30 to 100 guests.

Step 2. Decide on Indoor, Outdoor, or Marquee Setup

Your home layout will decide the type of setup.

• Indoor living and dining space works for smaller gatherings of up to 40 guests
• Garden or driveway with marquee hire works for 50 to 100 guests
• Heated marquee or tipi is better for colder months

Hire companies can supply flooring, heating, draping, and lighting to make the space weatherproof and comfortable.

Step 3. Set a Realistic Budget

A budget helps you stay in control. Break it down by category:

• Marquee or tent hire
• Stage and décor
• Catering and serving staff
• Mehndi artist
• Entertainment such as dhol players or DJ
• Photography or videography
• Seating and furniture
• Lighting
• Flowers and fresh décor
• Outfit and jewellery for the host bride

Step 4. Choose a Theme and Colour Scheme

A theme helps your décor, outfits, and stage design look coordinated. Popular Mehndi colour schemes for 2025 in the UK include:

• Mustard yellow, green, and fuchsia pink
• Orange, gold, and emerald green
• Maroon, gold, and cream
• Pastel pink, mint green, and ivory for a softer look

Tie the colours into your stage backdrop, tablecloths, and fresh flowers.

Step 5. Book Suppliers Early

Good suppliers get booked months ahead, especially in wedding season. Book these first:

• Marquee hire or furniture rental
• Caterer
• Mehndi artist
• Photographer
• Entertainment

For smaller home events, ask suppliers about space requirements. A DJ setup may need a separate corner and power source.

Step 6. Send Invitations

Send invitations 6 to 8 weeks before the event. Include:

• Date and time
• Address and parking information
• Dress code (often bright colours for a Mehndi)
• RSVP details

You can use physical cards or digital invites through WhatsApp, email, or platforms like Paperless Post.

Décor, Food, and Entertainment for a Home Mehndi

Once your basic planning is in place, focus on décor, food, and entertainment. These are what guests remember most.

Step 7. Stage and Backdrop Setup

A stage is often the centrepiece of a Mehndi. Even at home, it helps create a focal point for photos.

• Use a low platform with cushions and bolsters for a traditional seating style
• Choose drapes and fabric panels in your theme colours
• Add fresh flowers, LED fairy lights, and lanterns for detail
• Place a small table for gifts and flower garlands

Keep enough space in front of the stage for group photos and dancing.

Step 8. Seating and Layout

Plan seating to avoid overcrowding.

• Use round tables for meals if space allows
• Mix chairs with low-floor cushion seating for a relaxed feel
• Keep walkways clear for serving staff and guests moving between rooms or the marquee

For outdoor setups, rent weatherproof chairs and tables with covers.

Step 9. Lighting for Ambience

Lighting transforms the look of a home Mehndi.

• Use warm white fairy lights along fences, marquees, or walls
• Place LED uplighters behind the stage for colour washes
• Add candles or battery-operated lanterns on tables for a soft glow
• Avoid harsh overhead lights in main seating areas

For photography, ensure the stage is well-lit without shadows on the face.

Step 10. Catering and Food Service

Food is one of the highlights of any Mehndi. Decide between home-cooked catering from family, professional catering, or a mix.

Popular UK Mehndi menu ideas:

• Starters: samosas, pakoras, chaat, seekh kebabs
• Mains: chicken or lamb biryani, vegetable curry, naan, daal
• Sides: raita, salad, chutneys
• Desserts: gulab jamun, kheer, ras malai
• Drinks: mango lassi, falooda, soft drinks, tea

Hire serving staff for events over 40 guests to keep service smooth. Buffet style works well for home Mehndis.

Step 11. Entertainment

Entertainment keeps guests engaged and creates a celebratory atmosphere.

Options include:

• Dhol players for a high-energy entrance
• DJ with a playlist of Bollywood, Punjabi, and Urdu hits
• Live singers or musicians
• Dance performances from friends or family

If space is limited, keep performances short and focused.

Step 12. Henna Artist Area

Set up a dedicated space for henna application.

• Use a small table with good lighting and two chairs
• Provide tissue, cotton pads, lemon-sugar sealant, and cones
• Lay protective sheets to avoid stains on carpets or furniture

Book at least one artist for every 20 guests if you want everyone to have henna done during the event.

Scheduling, Hosting, and Practical Tips

With suppliers booked and décor ready, final planning focuses on smooth execution on the day.

Step 13. Create a Timeline for the Day

A clear timeline keeps everyone on track. Example for a 6 p.m. start:

• 2 p.m.: Supplier setup begins
• 4 p.m.: Stage and décor complete
• 5 p.m.: Photographer arrives for detail shots
• 6 p.m.: Guests start arriving
• 6:30 p.m.: Host family entrance
• 6:45 p.m.: Henna application begins
• 7 p.m.: Dinner service starts
• 8 p.m.: Performances or dhol session
• 9:30 p.m.: Dessert service
• 10:30 p.m.: Final photos and farewells

Step 14. Assign Hosting Roles

Delegate tasks so you are not overwhelmed.

• One person greets guests at the door
• One person manages suppliers and deliveries
• One person handles music and announcements
• A family member assists with seating and guest flow

Step 15. Plan for Weather and Space

For outdoor setups, have a weather plan.

• Keep heaters and blankets ready for cold evenings
• Have a rain cover or move seating indoors if needed

Make sure there are enough coat racks or storage for guest belongings.

Step 16. Keep Guests Comfortable

Small touches improve the guest experience.

• Offer welcome drinks at the door
• Keep restrooms stocked with essentials
• Provide children’s seating or activity area
• Set up a tea station for older guests who prefer a quieter space

Step 17. Photography Tips

Communicate with your photographer about key shots:

• Stage portraits of the host bride with family and friends
• Group photos by family side
• Candid shots during dancing and henna application
• Close-ups of jewellery, outfits, and décor

Make sure the stage lighting is even to avoid harsh shadows.

Step 18. Post-Event Wrap-Up

After the event, clear the space quickly to avoid delays with hire returns.

• Assign a small clean-up crew
• Return hire items within the agreed time
• Store leftover food safely or arrange for guests to take some home
• Share photos with guests within a week to keep the event fresh in memory