Creating Beautiful Wedding Flower Garlands: A Step-By-Step Guide

Flowers are integral to weddings, especially in South Asian and Thai cultures. The wedding flower garland, known as a 'malai' or 'phuang malai', is a decorative and symbolic element exchanged between the bride and groom during the wedding ceremony. Representing love, unity, elegance, happiness, and adventure, the floral garlands are often crafted from fragrant blooms like roses, marigolds, and jasmine. With a rich history rooted in tradition, the wedding malai has evolved from simple garlands of flowers and leaves to intricate works of art, incorporating various materials and designs. In this article, we will explore the cultural significance, different styles, and creative possibilities of making a wedding flower malai, offering inspiration for those seeking a unique and meaningful addition to their special day.

Characteristics and Values of Wedding Flower Malais

Choosing flowers: Opt for fragrant blooms like roses, jasmine, and marigolds

Flowers are an integral part of the wedding tradition, especially in South Asian and Thai cultures. The wedding malai, a decorative floral garland, is a symbol of love, unity, and the beauty of the marital journey. When choosing flowers for a wedding malai, it is essential to select fragrant blooms that will create a natural and enchanting bouquet. Roses, jasmine, and marigolds are excellent choices for their beauty, fragrance, and symbolic meanings.

Roses, with their timeless elegance, are a popular choice for wedding flower garlands. They come in a variety of colours, from classic reds to delicate whites and vibrant yellows, allowing for creative pairings with other flowers. The scent of roses adds a romantic touch to the wedding ceremony.

Jasmine, known for its dainty white or off-white blooms, holds a significant position in wedding traditions. Its fresh fragrance and simplicity make it a perfect choice for creating rustic or flamboyant wedding garlands. Jasmine flowers can be knotted, tufted, or paired with colourful decorative elements to create intricate and trendy designs.

Marigolds, with their bright and cheerful colours, often in shades of yellow and orange, bring a vibrant energy to the wedding festivities. They are commonly associated with positivity and happiness, making them an ideal choice for celebrations. Marigolds can be combined with other flowers or used as accents to create a sunny and joyful atmosphere.

When selecting flowers for a wedding malai, it is important to consider the overall theme and colour scheme of the wedding. The chosen flowers should complement each other and create a harmonious bouquet. Whether it's a simple or extravagant design, the combination of roses, jasmine, and marigolds will result in a stunning and fragrant wedding flower garland that symbolizes the beauty of love and unity.

Design options: From traditional to modern, chandelier to braided, the design choices are endless

Flower chandeliers are a versatile wedding decor element that can be customised to fit any theme, from traditional to modern. Here are some design options to consider:

Traditional or Vintage Chandeliers

Vintage chandeliers made from old brass or tole can be draped with fall flowers like dahlias, gypsophila, and Queen Anne's Lace. You can find these at local antique stores, and they make for a stunning, unique display.

Modern Chandeliers

For a modern twist, consider adding lighting to your flower chandelier. This can be in the form of candles, battery-operated lights, or fairy lights. Adding this element will create a romantic or whimsical ambiance to your wedding.

Chandelier Shapes

Chandelier shapes can vary, from the traditional circular shape to more modern geometric designs. For a simple yet elegant option, consider a hoop chandelier, which can be made from affordable materials such as a dollar store hoop covered in flowers and greenery.

Braided or Wreath Chandeliers

For a braided effect, weave olive branches, eucalyptus, or fir branches through your chandelier. This creates a natural, organic look. You can also add colourful fall leaves, mini pumpkins, and acorns for a festive touch.

Oversized Chandeliers

If you want to make a statement, go for an oversized chandelier. These can be especially effective in industrial or tall-ceilinged spaces, as they add colour, texture, and depth.

The design options for flower chandeliers are endless, and you can get creative with different flowers, foliage, and decorative elements to suit your wedding theme.

Colour schemes: Select colours that complement the wedding outfits, from golds and pinks to vibrant fuscias

When creating a wedding flower mala, it is important to consider the colour scheme and how it will complement the wedding outfits. Here are some ideas for colour schemes incorporating golds and pinks, as well as vibrant fuchsias:

For a classic and elegant look, a combination of pink and gold is a popular choice. This colour scheme offers a wide range of shades to choose from and can be adapted to suit all seasons. For a more subtle and romantic aesthetic, consider a blush pink and gold palette, perhaps paired with peach or mint. Alternatively, a bolder combination of pink and gold with navy blue or brown can create a striking contrast.

If you want to add a modern twist to the traditional pink and gold, introduce a third colour to create an eye-catching trio. For example, a palette of pink, gold, and navy blue, or pink, gold, and mint will create a fresh and unique look.

To make a bold statement, vibrant fuchsia is a perfect choice. This colour demands attention and adds a touch of drama to the wedding ensemble. Consider pairing fuchsia with other bright colours, such as orange or red, to create a vibrant and energetic palette. Alternatively, fuchsia can be combined with more neutral shades, such as white or cream, to create a softer and more romantic aesthetic.

When selecting your colour scheme, it is important to consider the availability of flowers in your chosen shades. You may also want to think about the overall theme and atmosphere you wish to create for your wedding, as this can help guide your colour choices. Ultimately, the colour scheme for your wedding flower mala should reflect your personal style and taste.

Size and weight: Consider the weight of the garland, especially if paired with heavy traditional attire

When creating a wedding flower garland, it is important to consider the weight of the garland, especially if it is going to be paired with heavy traditional attire. You don't want the overall outfit to be too heavy, as this may cause discomfort for the wearer.

Flower garlands can vary in weight depending on the type of flowers used and the length of the garland. For example, garlands made from fresh flowers will be lighter than those made from silk flowers. Longer garlands will also be heavier than shorter ones. If you are making a flower garland for a wedding, it is important to choose flowers that are in season as they will be fresher and lighter.

If you know that the garland is going to be paired with heavy traditional attire, it is best to choose lighter flowers and a shorter garland length. This will help to ensure that the overall outfit is not too heavy. Some examples of lighter flowers include baby's breath, roses, and carnations. You can also consider using artificial flowers, such as high-quality silk flowers, which are often lighter than fresh flowers and will not wilt or brown.

Additionally, consider the size of the garland in relation to the wearer's height and build. A garland that is too large or too small can affect the overall weight and comfort of the outfit. The length of the garland should be proportional to the wearer's height, and the width should be comfortable for the wearer's neck and shoulders. It is important to strike a balance between the size and weight of the garland to ensure that it is comfortable and flattering for the wearer.

Exchange rituals: In Hindu weddings, the bride and groom exchange malais thrice as a sign of union

In Hindu weddings, the exchange of flower garlands, or malais, between the bride and groom is a significant ritual. This exchange symbolises their union and is steeped in tradition and cultural values. The ritual is known as the jayamala or varmala ceremony and represents the couple's acceptance of each other as spouses and their pledge of mutual respect.

The history of the wedding malai dates back centuries, originating in the rich cultural heritage of South Asia. Initially, these garlands were simple, crafted from fragrant flowers and leaves, but over time, they evolved into more intricate designs, incorporating a variety of materials, including precious gemstones. The exchange of malais is not just a decorative tradition but holds a deep cultural significance, symbolising love, unity, and the beauty of the marital journey.

The jayamala or varmala is traditionally made of vibrant, sweet-smelling, freshly bloomed flowers, such as roses and jasmine, chosen for their fragrance and visual impact. The bright colours and fresh blooms ensure the garlands remain intact and beautiful even after the wedding ceremony. The process of stringing together the flowers can be time-consuming and challenging, but many still prefer the natural beauty and scent of fresh flower garlands.

In modern times, artificial varmalas have gained popularity due to their convenience and durability. These garlands are made from various materials, such as fabric, net, foil, small embellishments, and decorative pieces. Artificial garlands are easier to handle and less likely to spoil, making them a more cost-effective option. Couples may opt for artificial malais that coordinate with their wedding outfits or choose fresh flower garlands for their scent and natural beauty.

During the exchange ritual, the bride and groom stand facing each other and exchange malais thrice, symbolising their union and mutual respect. This ritual is often filled with teasing and joy as family and friends celebrate the couple's commitment. The exchange of garlands is a cherished tradition in Hindu weddings, adding a layer of cultural significance and beauty to the celebration of two people coming together in marriage.

Frequently asked questions