events planning

Relateful Camp Announcements. This is where we'll post all Announcements, and it's a great place to ask questions that aren't covered in other threads.

Here's a checklist to prep for Relateful Camp:

• Fill out your survey (at this point, primarily helpful for Anja Sophie to do cabin assignments, and essential if you're flying in so that Philip can get you connected with your shuttle.)
• If you're flying into IAH: you've bought your shuttle ticket and filled out your flight info on the survey. Contact Philip with any questions.
• If you're going to camp from Austin: Self-organize rideshares between Austin and Camp Olympia in this Google Sheet.
• If you'd like to offer an Emergent Session, you can add it by filling out this Questionnaire.
• If there's someone you know who is still considering coming, please let them know they need to buy their ticket by March 19th at this link.
• If you'd like to peruse the sessions and activities to get a sense of which ones you'll want to be sure to attend, you can see all of the offerings here.
• If you'd like to go ahead and get the energy flowing, Add to one of the threads here in our UpTrust Group, engage in the Connecting thread, or start your own thread here in our UpTrust Group!

More on Indian Marriages. I’m wondering if any of you have insights on how Indian Marriages can be more meaningful.

I find that they are usually very formulaic with few opportunities for genuine connection and interaction. It seems to be mostly about completing certain prescribed rituals.

I’m sure there are exceptions to this norm, however most weddings I have attended have been mostly about dressing up, getting photos taken, eating 🍽️, and some joking / teasing.

If I had to create something different it would include the following:

1. The bride and groom share their hopes and dreams and fears and aspirations.
2. There is an occasion to get to know a little bit about the main members of both sides of the family.
3. An opportunity for people to share some of their talents and gifts.
4. Occasion for blessing the couple with words / poems / short plays and other creative ways.
5. Those who wish to can share their most important relationship wisdom / anecdotes / Learnings.
6. Less money spent on the fancy aspects of the wedding and more on creating an atmosphere that is welcoming and puts people at easy.
7. Maybe a quiz / trivia about the couple and the respective families.

I know this is me imposing my value system on what is a well established tradition. However I felt like sharing my reflections and I welcome your insights.

Thanks.