Glitters, sequin, glimmering jewelry and elegant dresses were all at the rendezvous for Victoria's first Vehra Shagna Da – a Punjabi wedding-themed fashion event.
Dozens of craftspeople showcased their finest products in a festive atmosphere at the Ambrosia Banquet and Events Centre (638 Fisgard St.) in Victoria on June 1, with the event running from noon to 6 p.m.
With most vendors coming from Surrey, event organizer Resh Kumar said the goal was to bring the products to the community, rather than expecting the community to come to them.
“There are so many clients here in Victoria,” said Kumar. “They have to take a ferry [to come] shopping in Surrey, so that's why we decided to come here and give them a service they need.
“Most of our vendors are from Surrey, and they are bringing up their clothing, jewelry, and lifestyle products.”
The name Vehra Shagna Da translates from Punjabi as "the courtyard of celebrations," often referring to a special area of a home where weddings or other festive gatherings take place, which is the atmosphere Kumar aimed to recreate in Victoria.
“Usually, we have some rituals over there so people can come and buy the products for their weddings and everything else.”
With a growing Indian population on the Island, Kumar said the event aimed to rally the province’s South Asian communities together in celebrating Punjabi culture.
“We have a very good community here,” he said. “We are expecting good numbers.”
