Creating A Fragrant Indian Wedding Garland

Indian weddings are a vibrant affair, and floral garlands, also known as 'varmala', play a significant role in the ceremony. The exchange of garlands, known as the Jaimala ceremony, symbolises the couple's union, respect, and acceptance of one another. The type of flowers used in the garlands varies across different Indian regions and communities, each carrying its own cultural and spiritual significance. Making your own garland can be a creative and meaningful way to add a personal touch to your wedding, and it's a wonderful way to embrace and celebrate Indian culture and tradition.

Choosing flowers: Select fresh flowers with cultural significance and colours that complement the wedding attire

Indian weddings are known for their vibrant and colourful celebrations, and flowers play a significant role in the rituals and decorations. When choosing flowers for a wedding garland, it is essential to consider their cultural significance and how they complement the wedding attire.

The type of flowers used in a garland can vary depending on regional traditions and cultural practices. For example, North Indian weddings often feature colourful garlands made of roses, marigolds, and jasmine, adorned with beads, pearls, and ribbons. In contrast, South Indian weddings may favour jasmine, lotus, firecracker flowers, and tulsi (holy basil) for their spiritual significance and purity.

When selecting flowers, consider their symbolism and how they enhance the cultural significance of the moment. Marigolds, for instance, are popular in Hindu weddings as they represent the sun and symbolise brightness and positive energy. They are also associated with Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, considered the ideal couple in Hindu mythology. White jasmine is another favoured choice, as it symbolises good luck and is believed to bring prosperity and future success.

Roses, with their diverse colours, varieties, and distinct aroma, are a popular choice for Indian weddings. Their timeless elegance and romantic connection make them ideal for a Hindu wedding ceremony. When designing a rose garland, consider using a combination of fully bloomed roses and rosebuds, along with white flowers such as jasmine or white roses, to add texture and depth.

Another important aspect is choosing flowers that complement the wedding attire. Indian weddings are known for their vibrant colours, and the bridal attire is typically rich and colourful. Red is a traditional colour for brides, symbolising purity, protection, and bravery. Therefore, selecting flowers that harmonise with the vibrant reds, golds, and other colourful attire is essential.

When in doubt, opt for a variety of fresh, vibrant flowers that align with the cultural significance of the wedding and complement the wedding attire. By choosing the right flowers, you can create a garland that is not only beautiful but also meaningful and reflective of the rich Indian culture.

Materials: Gather string, scissors, and decorative elements like beads and pearls

When crafting an Indian wedding garland, it's essential to gather the right materials to ensure your creation is both beautiful and durable. Here's a detailed guide to the materials you'll need, with a focus on string, scissors, and decorative elements:

String:

The type of string you choose is crucial for the durability of your garland. Opt for a sturdy string or floral wire that can withstand the weight of the flowers and hold them securely in place. It should also be flexible enough to allow you to tie knots and manipulate it easily during the garland-making process. Make sure to measure and cut the string to the desired length of your garland, keeping in mind that you'll need extra length for tying knots and forming a circle.

Scissors:

A good pair of sharp scissors is indispensable for your Indian wedding garland project. You'll need them for various cutting tasks, such as trimming flower stems to uniform lengths and removing excess leaves or thorns. Scissors will also come in handy if you need to adjust the length of your string or thread. Keep them handy throughout the garland-making process for any last-minute adjustments or touch-ups.

Decorative Elements: Beads and Pearls:

Beads and pearls are classic choices for adding elegance and visual interest to your Indian wedding garland. They can be threaded onto the string along with the flowers or used to fill gaps and enhance the overall design. Opt for beads and pearls in complementary colours that match the flowers you've chosen. You can also mix and match different sizes and shapes to create texture and depth within your garland. Don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with different combinations of beads and pearls to achieve the desired aesthetic.

In addition to beads and pearls, consider incorporating other decorative elements such as ribbons, mango leaves, or even small pieces of artificial jewellery. These extra touches can elevate the beauty and symbolism of your garland. For example, mango leaves are believed to bring purity and ward off negativity, making them a special addition to any Hindu wedding garland.

Remember, the key to a stunning Indian wedding garland lies in the attention to detail and your creative expression. By gathering the right materials and thoughtfully incorporating decorative elements, you'll be well on your way to crafting a memorable and culturally rich garland.

Assembly: Thread flowers onto string, ensuring they are packed tightly for a full appearance

To make an Indian wedding garland, also known as a varmala, you'll need to assemble the flowers by threading them onto a string. This process requires careful attention to ensure a full and beautiful final product. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you create a stunning garland:

Before you begin threading, select the flowers you wish to use. Traditional Indian wedding garlands often feature vibrant, fragrant blooms such as roses, marigolds, jasmine, chrysanthemums, or carnations. You can choose flowers based on their cultural significance, availability, and how well they complement the wedding attire and decorations. Ensure your flowers are fresh and sturdy, with healthy petals and no blemishes.

Once you have your flowers prepared, it's time to start assembling the garland. Cut a length of sturdy string or floral wire that is twice as long as you want your garland, plus an additional 12 inches. For example, if you're aiming for a 48-inch garland, cut a piece of string that is 108 inches long. Thread one end of the string through a strong needle, and pull it through until both sides are of equal length.

Tie a large knot at one end of the string, about 3 inches from the end. This will serve as a stopper for your flowers. Now, cut off the heads of the carnations or chosen flowers at the base of their stems. You can also use flowers with longer stems and trim them to a uniform length if needed.

Insert the needle through the centre of a flower from the stem end, up through the middle of the blossom. Gently push the flower down the string until it rests snugly against the knot. Repeat this process, adding flowers one by one, until you reach the halfway point of your garland. Typically, this would be around 24 flowers, depending on the size of your blooms.

Now, you'll change the direction in which you thread the flowers. Insert the needle through the centre of the next flower from the blossom end, down through the stem end. Continue pushing the flowers snugly against each other, ensuring there are no gaps. This technique creates a seamless and full appearance to your garland.

Finally, when you've threaded all the flowers, tie the ends of the garland together firmly to form a circle. Double or triple knot the threads for security. Carefully clip off the needle and any loose ends of the thread. Your Indian wedding garland is now ready to be misted with water and stored in a cool, dark place until it's time for the ceremony.

Remember, the key to a beautiful garland is taking your time and ensuring the flowers are tightly packed together. This assembly process is a blend of artistry and attention to detail, resulting in a meaningful symbol of love and commitment for the happy couple.

Storage and transport: Keep in a cool, dark place and transport in a breathable container

To store your Indian wedding garland, find a cool, dark place to keep it. A floral cooler or refrigerator set at a temperature of around 2°C to 3°C (36°F to 38°F) is ideal. If you don't have access to a refrigerator, a basement or cellar could also work, as long as it's well-ventilated and free from direct sunlight or heat sources. The goal is to maintain a consistent, cool temperature to help preserve the freshness of the flowers.

When transporting your garland, it's important to use a breathable container. This allows airflow to reach the flowers, preventing them from wilting. A cardboard box with holes punched in the sides, a wicker basket, or a container with a loose-fitting lid can all work well. Keep the container in a cool environment during transport, and avoid placing it in direct sunlight or in the trunk of a car, as the temperature there can rise quickly.

During transport, it's also a good idea to avoid excessive handling of the garland. The more the flowers are touched, the greater the chance of damaging or bruising the petals. Place the garland flat or hang it up in the container to avoid crushing the flowers. If needed, gently mist the garland with water before transport to ensure the flowers are well-hydrated.

By following these storage and transport instructions, you can help ensure that your Indian wedding garland stays fresh and beautiful, preserving its vibrant colours and sweet fragrance.

Maintenance: Mist flowers with water to keep them hydrated and fresh

Maintaining the freshness of your wedding garland is crucial for it to look its best throughout the ceremony. To do this, you must keep the flowers hydrated and mist them regularly with water. Here are some detailed tips for this process:

Firstly, select the freshest flowers possible. Opt for flowers that are freshly picked and in good condition, with slightly opened blooms, as these will last longer. Before assembling the garland, rinse the flowers gently under cool water to remove any dirt or pesticides and to give them an initial hydration boost. Allow the flowers to air dry on a clean towel before proceeding.

Once you have assembled your garland, mist it regularly with water. This will help keep the flowers hydrated and fresh. Be careful not to overdo it, as too much water can cause the flowers to rot. Spray the garland lightly and frequently, ensuring the petals receive a gentle hydration boost without becoming oversaturated.

If you need to transport the garland, it is important to handle it with care. Place it in a breathable container and keep it cool. Avoid placing the garland in a hot environment, such as the trunk of a car, as extreme temperatures can cause the flowers to wilt.

Additionally, avoid excessive handling of the garland. The less the flowers are touched, the longer they will stay fresh. Handle the garland gently to avoid bruising or damaging the delicate petals.

By following these tips, your Indian wedding garland will remain hydrated, fresh, and vibrant throughout the ceremony, preserving its beauty and symbolism during this special occasion.

Frequently asked questions