Jewellery by function: a checklist for the whole wedding week

Most families over-buy for two functions and under-plan for four. Work through the week as a list and the budget falls into place.

Roka and engagement: one refined piece plus earrings. This is the most photographed small event and the least demanding on budget.

Mehndi: hands are the subject, so haath phool, rings and bangles do the work. Silver Jadau in oxidised finish sits beautifully against green.

Haldi: nothing heavy, nothing you would grieve over. Imitation stones in silver, and floral jewellery on the day itself.

Sangeet: your statement second-look — a silver Jadau choker or a lighter gold piece that moves when you dance.

Pheras: the full bridal gold set, chosen against the lehenga neckline, with the tikka and nath finalised at a trial.

Reception: the bridal choker can repeat if the outfit and hairstyle change; swap the earrings and tikka and it reads as a new look. That single trick saves most families a full set.