As the Indian population in the Chicago area has grown dramatically in recent decades — adding 20,000 people in DuPage and Cook counties from 2007 to 2013 alone, according to U.S. Census bureau statistics — so has the local industry geared to throw Indian weddings — customarily large, upscale events in which guests eat, carry on traditions, and dance during a series of celebrations that stretch over several days. In Indian culture, a wedding is considered to be the most important event in a person's life. Wedding guest lists often exceed 500 people, according to vendors.