Crafting A Wedding Garland: Kerala Style Welcome

Wedding garlands are a staple of Indian festivities and carry a lot of cultural significance. In Kerala, South India, the exchange of garlands is one of the most important traditions in a wedding. The garlands, known as 'varmalas' or 'jaimalas', represent the union and acceptance of both the bride and groom. They are usually made of flowers, with each flower carrying a different meaning. In South Indian weddings, garlands are often made of jasmine, lotus, firecracker flowers (kanakambara), and tulsi (holy basil). The choice of flowers and their arrangement can vary depending on regional traditions and cultural practices.

Choosing flowers with spiritual significance

Garlands are a staple of Indian culture and are used in weddings to symbolise the union and acceptance of the couple. Flowers are chosen for their beauty and spiritual significance, with each flower carrying a different meaning. In South Indian weddings, jasmine, lotus, firecracker flowers (kanakambara), and tulsi (holy basil) are often used. Jasmine and lotus are chosen for their divine connotations and purity, while tulsi is considered sacred and is believed to bring blessings and protection to the couple.

In Kerala, the tropical climate is ideal for growing flowering plants, and flowers are used in various cultural and spiritual contexts. The following flowers are commonly found in Kerala and hold spiritual significance:

• The golden-shower tree is the official flower of Kerala and is considered sacred. It is of great importance during the festival of Vishu, where it is worn on the idol of Lord Krishna.
• The hibiscus flower, known as Chemparathi, is used for preparing medicines and dyes, as well as making hibiscus tea.
• The Ashoka tree is considered a holy tree, and its leaves and flowers are used for preparing Ayurvedic medicines.
• The Joy-perfume tree has cup-shaped, fragrant flowers that are used as room fresheners and for making perfumes.
• The fire-cracker plant, also known as Abuli, has bright-coloured flowers that are worn by women in their hair.
• The basil plant, or tulsi, is considered holy and is used in Ayurvedic medicines. It is believed to bring blessings and protection.
• The jasmine plant, known for its fragrant white flowers, is worn by women as an ornamental flower.
• The lotus plant is considered sacred by Hindus, who believe that the goddess Saraswathi sits on this flower.

When choosing flowers for a wedding garland, it is important to consider their spiritual significance and how they can enhance the symbolism of the union between the bride and groom.

Selecting flowers to match the wedding attire

For the Bride

If you have a white or ivory wedding gown, any colour palette will complement it. For off-white or champagne dresses, opt for warm shades like peach, blush, or soft pastels. If your dress has a coloured accent, such as a sash or embroidery, incorporate that colour into your bouquet.

The style and silhouette of your dress also matter. For a romantic, flowing gown, choose loose, cascading bouquets with soft flowers like roses, peonies, or hydrangeas. If your dress is sleek and modern, a structured bouquet with clean lines and contemporary flowers like calla lilies or orchids is a better fit.

For the Bridesmaids

It is not necessary for the flowers to match the bridesmaids' dresses exactly, but achieving a harmonious look is essential. If the bridesmaids are wearing warm tones, opt for flowers in soft pastels or rich earthy tones. If the dresses are in a single colour, choose flowers in a complementary shade. If the bridesmaid dresses feature multiple colours, select flowers that incorporate all those hues.

Matching the bride and bridesmaid bouquets is a personal choice. You can create a unified look with slightly varied bouquets or distinguish the bride with unique floral arrangements. For a cohesive appearance, consider creating smaller versions of the bride's bouquet for the bridesmaids, using the same types of flowers and colour palette. Alternatively, you can choose a single flower type from the bride's bouquet and incorporate it into the bridesmaids' bouquets.

For the Groomsmen

If the wedding is casual, a good starting point is to choose a dress shirt that matches the bridesmaids' dresses. Ensure that the colour blends well with everyone's attire to avoid clashing. For a formal, black-tie wedding, match the colour of the tie and pocket square to the boutonniere.

The boutonnieres should incorporate colours that are similar but not the same hue as the dress shirt. For example, if the groomsmen are wearing navy blue suits, use flowers that are a lighter shade of blue, like hydrangeas. Remember, the colour of the flowers and outfit accessories should not be the same shade. Add some greenery to make the coloured flowers pop.

General Tips

• The season plays a significant role in selecting a colour scheme and the types of flowers available. For example, hydrangeas are in bloom during the spring, so they may be more challenging to source for a winter wedding.
• The colour of the flowers doesn't have to be an exact match with the rest of the decor, but choose blooms that complement your colour palette.
• Use your wedding bouquet as a starting point for selecting your flowers. Your bouquet is a statement piece and will likely appear in most of your wedding photos.
• Pick flowers that reflect your wedding season. While you can use out-of-season blooms, they may be harder for your florist to find and will likely be more expensive.
• The flowers you choose should also reflect your wedding style. For a formal black-tie wedding, traditional and structured arrangements are more appropriate. For a relaxed and informal wedding, you can be more creative with mix-and-match or loose, garden-style arrangements.
• If you're unsure, consult a professional florist. They can guide you in selecting flowers that fit your colour scheme, season, and budget.

Using fresh flowers for longevity

To make a wedding garland in the Kerala style that lasts, it's important to start with fresh flowers. Here are some tips to ensure your flowers stay fresh for longer:

Selecting the Right Flowers

When choosing flowers for your garland, opt for fresh, high-quality blooms. Look for flowers with healthy petals, sturdy stems, and no blemishes. Flowers that are slightly open but not fully bloomed will also last longer. Carnations, roses, chrysanthemums, jasmine, and marigolds are excellent choices for durability.

Properly Cut and Trim the Stems

Once you have your flowers, cut the stems at a uniform length, removing any excess leaves or thorns. Cut the stems at an angle, approximately 1/4" to 1/2" from the bottom. This will improve their ability to absorb water. Remember to re-trim the stems every few days or each time you change the water.

Use the Right Water and Container

Fill a clean vase or container with room-temperature water, avoiding very cold or hot water. Add a packet of flower food or a preservative to inhibit bacterial growth. You can also make your own preservative solution by mixing 2 tablespoons of sugar with 2 tablespoons of white vinegar, or using lemon-lime soda instead.

Maintain Ideal Conditions

Keep your garland in a cool room with indirect sunlight. Avoid placing it near heat sources, direct sunlight, open windows, heating or cooling vents, or ceiling fans, as these can cause dehydration. Additionally, avoid displaying your garland near ripening fruit, as they release ethylene gas, which can reduce the longevity of your flowers.

Regular Maintenance

Change the water in your vase or container every two to three days, cleaning the vase thoroughly each time. Remove any dead or loose leaves and petals daily to prevent bacterial rot. If possible, mist the garland with water regularly to keep the flowers hydrated, but be careful not to overdo it to avoid rotting.

By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and long-lasting wedding garland in the Kerala style using fresh flowers.

Incorporating decorative elements like beads and pearls

Kerala is a state in South India, so a Kerala-style wedding garland will likely follow the South Indian tradition. In South Indian weddings, the exchange of garlands, or varmalas, is one of the most important traditions.

Varmalas can be made from a variety of flowers, including roses, marigolds, jasmine, lotus, firecracker flowers (kanakambara), and tulsi (holy basil). When choosing flowers for a garland, it is important to consider their cultural significance and the overall theme of the wedding.

To incorporate decorative elements like beads and pearls, start by selecting the type and colour of beads and pearls you want to use. You can choose from a variety of colours, shapes, and sizes to match the wedding theme and the flowers used in the garland.

• String beads or pearls between flowers: Use a sturdy string or thread to carefully pierce through the centre of each bead or pearl and then thread them between the flowers. This will create a beautiful alternating pattern of flowers and decorative elements.
• Cluster beads or pearls with flowers: Group beads or pearls together with flowers to create clusters of varying sizes and textures. This technique adds visual interest and elegance to the garland.
• Wrap beads or pearls around the garland: You can use flexible wire or string to carefully wrap beads or pearls around the garland, filling any gaps between flowers and creating a fuller look.
• Dangle beads or pearls from the garland: Attach beads or pearls to the garland with thin wire or thread, allowing them to dangle delicately. This technique adds movement and sparkle to the garland.
• Mix beads and pearls with greenery: If your garland includes greenery or mango leaves, weave beads or pearls into the foliage for a subtle touch of elegance.

Remember to select high-quality beads and pearls that complement the flowers and the overall wedding theme. You can also mix and match different types of decorative elements to create a unique and personalised garland.

Adding mango leaves for cultural and spiritual significance

Kerala, a state in southwestern India, is known for its lush greenery and vibrant culture, and its wedding traditions reflect this richness. When crafting a welcome garland for a Kerala-style wedding, incorporating mango leaves adds a layer of cultural and spiritual depth to the celebration. Here's why:

Mango Leaves: A Symbol of Fertility and Abundance

Mango leaves are deeply rooted in Hindu rituals and ceremonies, and they hold a special place in Kerala's cultural traditions. In the context of weddings, mango leaves symbolise fertility and abundance. The lush foliage and abundant fruit-bearing capacity of the mango tree represent growth and a prosperous future for the newlyweds. This symbolism is especially relevant in Kerala, where nature and fertility are celebrated.

Spiritual Significance: Invoking Positive Energy

Mango leaves are believed to invoke positive energy and bring harmony to the surroundings. In Kerala-style weddings, the inclusion of mango leaves in the welcome garland is thought to attract good vibes and create a sacred space for the union of two souls. This spiritual significance adds a deeper meaning to the wedding ceremony.

Connection with Hindu Deities

Mango leaves are closely associated with Hindu deities like Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge. In Kerala, where Hinduism is a prominent religion, including mango leaves in the wedding garland honours these deities and invites their blessings upon the couple. This spiritual connection adds a divine dimension to the celebration.

Protection and Purification

Mango leaves are also believed to possess protective and purifying qualities. In Kerala's spiritual traditions, they are used to ward off evil spirits, negative influences, and even diseases. By incorporating mango leaves into the welcome garland, the wedding venue is symbolically cleansed and protected, creating a safe and auspicious space for the ceremony.

Symbol of Eternal Love

In some Indian traditions, including Kerala, mango leaves take on a romantic significance. The evergreen nature of the mango tree symbolises the strength and resilience of true love. By adding mango leaves to the welcome garland, the couple expresses their desire for an everlasting bond, mirroring the enduring nature of the mango tree.

In conclusion, the addition of mango leaves to a welcome garland in a Kerala-style wedding goes beyond mere decoration. It symbolises the cultural and spiritual richness of the region, invoking fertility, prosperity, and divine blessings. The vibrant green leaves not only enhance the visual appeal of the garland but also infuse the wedding ceremony with deep cultural and spiritual significance.

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