Crafting Wedding Hair Garland: A Step-By-Step Guide

Wedding hair garlands are a beautiful accessory for brides, bridesmaids, and flower girls. They can be made from fresh flowers or artificial flowers, and can be purchased or handmade. Many people sell wedding hair garlands online, and they are often customisable. They are usually adjustable, and can be made from a variety of materials, including gold, silver, rhinestones, pearls, and dried flowers.

Choosing the right flowers

Flowers are an essential component of any wedding hair garland, adding a touch of elegance and charm to the overall bridal look. When choosing the right flowers for your garland, there are several factors to consider, from colour and size to durability and symbolism. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect blooms for your special day:

Colour and Variety

The colour of the flowers you choose should complement your wedding colour palette and enhance your bridal attire. Opt for shades that coordinate with your dress, whether it's a traditional white gown or a non-traditional hue. If you're going for a soft, romantic look, consider pastel-coloured flowers like blush pink or dusty rose. For a bolder statement, richer colours like burgundy or purple can add depth and drama. You can also mix and match different flower varieties to create a unique and eclectic garland. Play around with different combinations of blooms, such as roses, baby's breath, eucalyptus, and peonies, to find your perfect arrangement.

Size and Proportion

Consider the size of the flowers in relation to your head and hairstyle. You don't want the flowers to overwhelm your face, so choose blooms that are proportionate to your head size and the style of your hair. Smaller, more delicate flowers can be a good choice if you're opting for an updo or a half-up half-down style, as they won't weigh down your hair. Larger flowers or a mix of big and small blooms can work well with loose, flowing hairstyles or if you plan to wear your hair down.

Durability and Longevity

Fresh flowers are a popular choice for wedding hair garlands, but they may not last throughout the entire event, especially in warm weather. Consider the longevity of the flowers you choose, especially if you want to wear your garland for an extended period. Some varieties, like baby's breath, eucalyptus, and succulents, are known for their durability and can hold up well even in warmer temperatures. If you're set on a particular type of flower that is not in season, you may also want to consider high-quality artificial flowers, which can provide the same visual impact without the risk of wilting.

Symbolism and Meaning

Different flowers carry different symbolic meanings, and choosing blooms that hold special significance for you can add a layer of personalisation to your garland. For example, roses symbolise love and passion, while peonies represent happiness and prosperity. You might also want to consider the language of flower colours: white symbolises purity, pink represents grace and joy, and red stands for desire and strength. Selecting flowers that align with your values or tell a story can make your garland even more meaningful.

Remember, your wedding hair garland should reflect your personal style and vision for your big day. Whether you opt for fresh or artificial flowers, delicate pastels or bold hues, ensure that you choose blooms that make you feel confident and beautiful as you walk down the aisle.

Selecting a colour scheme

• Consider your wedding theme colours: If you have already decided on a colour palette for your wedding, try to incorporate those colours into your hair garland. This will create a cohesive and well-put-together look. For example, if your wedding colours are blush and gold, opt for a hair garland with blush flowers and gold leaves or accents.
• Complement your outfit: Another important factor to consider is the colour of your wedding outfit. You want your hair garland to complement and enhance your outfit, not clash with it. If you are wearing a white or ivory dress, soft pastel colours or greenery can create a romantic and delicate look. For a bolder coloured dress, such as a blush or champagne gown, opt for neutral-coloured flowers or greenery with subtle hints of colour.
• Play with textures and shades: Adding different textures and shades of the same colour can create depth and interest to your hair garland. For example, if you are going for a rustic-themed wedding, combine eucalyptus leaves with white baby's breath flowers for a beautiful and organic look. If you prefer a more glamorous style, combine different shades of gold and silver leaves or crystals for a luxurious feel.
• Incorporate meaningful colours: Your wedding is a reflection of you and your partner, so feel free to incorporate colours that are meaningful to you. Whether it's your favourite colour, a cultural tradition, or a nod to your heritage, don't be afraid to add personal touches to your hair garland. For example, if you love the colour purple, add some lavender or lilac flowers to your garland for a subtle pop of colour.
• Think about your venue: The location and atmosphere of your wedding venue can also influence your colour choices. For example, if you are having a beach wedding, opt for light and airy colours such as soft blues, greens, and whites to complement the ocean backdrop. For a wedding in a lush garden setting, choose colours that will stand out against the greenery, such as vibrant pinks, oranges, or yellows.

Remember, your wedding hair garland should reflect your personal style and taste. Don't be afraid to mix and match colours until you find the perfect combination that makes you feel confident and beautiful on your special day.

Adjusting the garland to your head

Next, you will need to cut your ribbon to size. The ribbon should be long enough to tie comfortably in a bow behind your head, with a little extra length for adjustment. Cut the ribbon accordingly, leaving an extra inch or two on each side for ease.

Now, take your garland and find the centre point. You can do this by gently folding the garland in half and marking the middle with your finger. Take your ribbon and tie it securely at this centre point, leaving an equal amount of ribbon on each side.

Try on your garland by placing it on your head and tying the ribbons at the back. You can adjust the ribbons to ensure a comfortable fit, tightening or loosening as needed. Ensure the garland sits securely and comfortably, and that the ribbons are tied in a secure bow.

You can also add extra security by using bobby pins to attach the garland to your hair. Place the pins at intervals along the inside of the garland, attaching it to your hair in several places to keep it in place. This will ensure that your garland stays put, even during active movements.

Styling your hair to complement the garland

There are many ways to style your hair with a garland, and it's a great way to add a unique and natural touch to your wedding look. Here are some tips to help you complement your hair with a garland:

Braids and Updos

If you're going for a more intricate and romantic look, try braiding small pieces of the garland into your hair. This style works beautifully with braids and updos. You can also tie the garland around a bun or ponytail, or even knot the ends together above one ear for an elegant updo without the extra effort. This is a great option if you're looking for something quick and easy yet stylish.

Traditional Wear

For a classic and timeless look, you can wear the garland in the traditional way by threading it through your hair, starting at the back of your head and working your way to the front. This style might require an extra pair of hands, so enlist the help of a friend or your stylist. If you have long hair, you can also let the garland hang down at the back like a tail for a whimsical touch.

Short Hair or Bangs

If you have short hair or bangs, a great option is to wear the garland like a tiara on top of your head. The bangs will help cover the join between the flowers and the headband, creating a seamless and elegant look. This style is also perfect for showing off your facial features.

Full Crowns and Tiaras

When wearing a full crown or tiara, ensure the headband fits comfortably around your head with the loops positioned over your ears. If it's too tight, gently bend and stretch it out. Tie the ends of the garland securely at the back of your head, and cut off any excess string or wire. For a partial crown or tiara, simply position the band across your forehead, with the bottom resting at the top of your head, and tie the ends together.

Flower Choice and Colour

When styling your hair with a garland, choose flowers that complement your outfit and makeup. You can match your garland to a specific outfit or accessory, or opt for a bright splash of colour. Experiment with different types and colours of flowers to find what suits you best. You can even create a multi-coloured garland for a unique and playful look.

Adding extra decorations

Once you've settled on the flowers, foliage, and colour scheme of your hair garland, you can take it to the next level by adding extra decorations. Here are some ideas to elevate your wedding hair garland:

Beads and Pearls

Add some extra sparkle to your hair garland with beads or pearls. You can string them onto thin wire and twist this wire around the garland, or carefully glue them in place. Opt for pearls in classic white or ivory, or coloured pearls to match your wedding colour scheme.

Rhinestones and Crystals

For some extra glamour, add rhinestones or crystals to your hair garland. These can be glued onto the garland itself or twisted around the garland on thin wire.

Ribbons

A ribbon is a great way to add colour and texture to your hair garland. You can use it to tie the garland in place, letting the ends hang down as a decorative feature. Alternatively, you could weave the ribbon through the garland for a more subtle effect.

Dried Flowers

Dried flowers can add a unique, rustic touch to your hair garland. You can use them as a base for your garland, or add them as an accent to a fresh flower garland. They come in a variety of colours and types, so you can find the perfect match for your wedding.

Greenery

If you're going for a more natural look, consider adding some greenery to your hair garland. Eucalyptus and boxwood are popular choices, and they can add a touch of elegance to your garland. You can find artificial greenery garlands that can be easily incorporated into your hair garland.

Frequently asked questions