Creating Fragrant Indian Wedding Garlands For The Bride And Groom

Indian wedding garlands, also known as varmala or jaimala, are an integral part of the traditional Hindu wedding ceremony. The exchange of garlands between the bride and groom symbolises their respect, acceptance, and union as they embark on their marital journey together. These garlands are typically made of vibrantly coloured flowers such as roses, marigolds, jasmine, and orchids, strung together to create a visually stunning and fragrant accessory. The type of flowers used can vary depending on regional traditions and cultural practices, with each flower holding a unique significance. For instance, in North Indian weddings, garlands are often adorned with decorative elements like beads, pearls, and ribbons, while South Indian weddings may feature jasmine, lotus, and tulsi—flowers that are chosen for their spiritual significance.

Choosing the right flowers

Regional and Cultural Traditions

The type of flowers used in Indian wedding garlands can vary depending on regional traditions and cultural practices. For instance, North Indian weddings often feature colourful garlands made of roses, marigolds, and jasmine, reflecting the region's vibrant culture. In contrast, South Indian weddings may favour jasmine, lotus, firecracker flowers (kanakambara), and tulsi (holy basil) for their spiritual significance. Understanding the cultural significance of different flowers will help you make an informed choice.

Flower Symbolism and Meaning

Flowers have long been associated with specific meanings and symbolism. For example, roses, especially red ones, symbolise love and passion, while white roses represent purity and innocence. Marigolds bring joy and prosperity with their bright hues, and lilies signify purity and commitment. Carnations convey different meanings based on their colours—red for deep love, white for pure love, and pink for gratitude. Selecting flowers based on their symbolic meanings adds depth and personalisation to your garland.

Colour Themes and Visual Appeal

Consider the colour themes and visual appeal of the flowers when crafting your garland. Combining fully bloomed roses with rosebuds, or interspersing red roses with white or pink ones, creates a visually appealing contrast. White orchids evoke elegance, while purple and pink orchids add a pop of colour. The colour and variety of flowers you choose should complement the bridal attire and enhance the overall aesthetic of the wedding ceremony.

Durability and Freshness

To ensure your garland remains fresh and vibrant throughout the wedding ceremony, select durable and fresh flowers. Look for flowers with healthy, sturdy stems and petals. Roses that are slightly open but not fully bloomed will last longer. Carnations, chrysanthemums, jasmine, and marigolds are also excellent choices for their durability. Properly hydrating and storing the flowers before assembly will further contribute to their longevity.

Personal Preferences and Creativity

Ultimately, the choice of flowers for your garland should reflect your personality and the theme of your wedding. Get creative and experiment with different combinations of flowers, colours, and decorative elements. Consider the availability of certain flowers and how well they complement the wedding decorations. By infusing your garland with personal touches, it will become a cherished emblem of your special day and a lasting memento of your union.

Threading techniques

Threading flowers together is a delicate task that requires precision and attention to detail. Here are some threading techniques to help you create beautiful Indian wedding garlands for the bride and groom:

Selecting the Right Flowers

The type of flowers you choose will depend on the regional traditions and cultural practices of the wedding. For North Indian weddings, colourful garlands made of roses, marigolds, and jasmine are common, often adorned with decorative elements like beads, pearls, and ribbons. South Indian weddings often feature jasmine, lotus, firecracker flowers, and tulsi, while East Indian weddings, particularly Bengali weddings, favour red and white roses, marigolds, and tuberoses.

Preparing the Flowers

Once you've selected your flowers, prepare them by trimming the stems to a uniform length and removing any excess leaves or thorns. This ensures a neat and tidy garland.

The most common technique for threading flowers is to use a needle and durable thread or floral wire. Thread the needle and pull it through until both sides of the thread are of equal length. Tie a large knot at one end, about three inches from the end. Then, insert the needle through the centre of the flower, starting from the stem and pushing it up through the middle of the blossom. Gently push the flower down the thread until it is snug against the knot. Repeat this process, adding flowers until you reach the halfway point of your garland.

Creating a Uniform Garland

To ensure a uniform and consistent garland, periodically check the length and adjust the spacing as needed. Additionally, pack the flowers tightly together to create a full and lush appearance.

Finishing Touches

Once you've added all the flowers, tie the ends of the garland together firmly to form a circle, using double or triple knots for security. Clip off the needle and any loose ends of thread. Mist the flowers with water to keep them hydrated, and store the garland in a cool, dark place until it's ready to be worn.

Adding Decorative Elements

To enhance the visual appeal of the garland, consider adding decorative elements such as beads, pearls, ribbons, or mango leaves. These additions can be incorporated as you thread the flowers or added as final touches.

Garland maintenance

Maintaining the freshness of your wedding garland is crucial for it to look its best throughout the ceremony. Here are some tips and tricks for preserving your garland before, during, and after the wedding:

Before the Wedding

• Select fresh flowers that are slightly open but not fully bloomed, as they will last longer.
• Trim the stems to a uniform length, removing any thorns or excess leaves.
• Soak the flowers in water to hydrate the petals and help them stay fresh.
• Store the flowers in a cool, shaded place before assembling the garland, avoiding direct sunlight and heat.

During the Wedding

• Mist the garland regularly with water to keep the flowers hydrated, but be careful not to overdo it.
• Handle the garland gently to avoid bruising or damaging the petals.
• If you need to transport the garland, place it in a breathable container and keep it cool.

After the Wedding

• Hang the garland upside down in a cool, dry place with good air circulation to air dry it.
• Press individual flowers or small sections of the garland between parchment paper and place them under heavy books or in a flower press.
• Bury the flowers in silica gel crystals to absorb moisture and preserve their colour and shape.
• Encapsulate sections of the garland in resin to create a clear, durable keepsake.
• Create a shadow box display by arranging dried or pressed flowers with other wedding memorabilia.
• Turn your preserved flowers into artwork by mounting them on canvas or including them in mixed media projects.

Cultural significance

Indian weddings are steeped in tradition and ritual, and the exchange of garlands, or varmala, between the bride and groom is one of the most significant customs. This ceremony, known as the Jaimala or Varmala, represents the couple's mutual consent, respect, love, and commitment to one another, marking the beginning of their marital journey together.

The cultural significance of the wedding garlands in Indian weddings extends beyond the union and acceptance of the bride and groom. It symbolises the celebration of love, unity, and the commencement of a shared journey, with the couple's families also exchanging garlands to welcome each other and signify mutual respect and acceptance.

The type of flowers used in the garlands also holds cultural importance. In North Indian weddings, colourful garlands made of roses, marigolds, and jasmine are common, reflecting the region's vibrant culture and festive spirit. Adornments such as beads, pearls, and ribbons are often added to enhance their visual splendour.

South Indian weddings, on the other hand, often feature garlands made of jasmine, lotus, firecracker flowers (kanakambara), and tulsi (holy basil). These flowers are chosen for their spiritual significance and divine connotations, with jasmine and lotus revered for their purity and tulsi believed to bring blessings and protection.

The choice of flowers may also vary within different communities in India. For example, in East India, particularly at Bengali weddings, red and white roses are commonly used, often incorporating marigolds and tuberoses for added fragrance and meaning. The lotus, a symbol of purity and spiritual enlightenment, is also favoured in these weddings.

The bridal garland, or varmala, holds a special significance as a symbol of purity and commitment. Each flower is deliberately chosen to represent the bride's pure intentions as she embarks on a new phase of life. The garland complements her appearance and symbolises the couple's bond, joy, and happiness throughout the wedding celebrations.

The exchange of garlands is a key ritual in Indian weddings, regardless of the family's financial status. The vibrant colours and fresh flowers used in the garlands add beauty and freshness to the ceremony, highlighting the time-honoured customs and traditions that are valued in Indian culture.

Flower preparation

The first step in creating an Indian wedding garland is to select the flowers. The type of flowers used can vary depending on regional traditions and cultural practices. For example, North Indian weddings often feature colourful garlands made of roses, marigolds, and jasmine, while South Indian weddings may include jasmine, lotus, firecracker flowers, and tulsi (holy basil). The choice of flowers is not only dictated by cultural significance but also by the overall theme of the wedding.

Once you have chosen the flowers, ensure they are fresh and of high quality. Look for flowers with healthy, sturdy stems and petals, and no blemishes. The flowers should be slightly open but not fully bloomed, as they will last longer and maintain their shape.

After selecting the flowers, you will need to prepare them for the garland. Cut the stems to a uniform length, removing any excess leaves or thorns that may interfere with the threading process. If using roses, trim the stems to less than half an inch in length.

Gently inspect each flower and remove any damaged or wilted petals to ensure only the best blooms are used. Rinse the flowers gently under cool water to remove dirt and pesticides, and to hydrate them. Allow the flowers to air dry on a clean towel.

Creating the Garland

To create the garland, you will need a strong string or thread and a needle. Measure and cut the string to the desired length, taking into account that you will need extra length for tying knots. Thread the needle with the string and tie a large knot at one end.

Pierce the needle through the centre of each flower, starting from the stem end and pushing it up through the middle of the blossom. Gently push the flowers down the thread, packing them tightly together. Alternate the colours or types of flowers to create a visually appealing pattern.

Once you have strung all the flowers, tie the ends of the thread together to form a circle, double or triple-knotting the threads to secure the garland. Cut off the excess thread and needle, and mist the flowers with water. Store the garland in a cool, dark place until it is ready to be worn.

Frequently asked questions