A Wedding to Remember
It’s not everyday that you are asked to design an Indian Hindu wedding. It’s not everyday that one of fleursBELLA’s own team members is getting married! But it happened, and we couldn’t have been happier. The highlight was the Hindu ceremony itself, and the fact that we were all on the guest list.
Traditionally a mala is used during the Varmala ceremony symbolizing their mutual acceptance, love, and the beginning of their union. The flowers in the mala represent happiness and beauty, while the act of the exchange symbolizes the couple welcoming each other into their families and committing to their marriage. So it’s kind of a big deal that the malas we designed were extra speical.
This, in fact, was the first time we were making something like this. So there were a few test runs, flowers ordered that just plain didn’t work. Be they too fragile, or bruised far too easily, the thickness, the length all had to be factored in. We chose beautiful Carnation Star Snow Tessino’s, paired with bold red Carnation Grandsole, Babies breath, and Hypericum berries. We also included beads for the bottom tassels, spelling out pet names that the bride and groom have for each other. It was those details that made it a true joy to make. We had been working with the groom for some ten years, many hours shared side by side working in the studio. We ordered silk thread, and beading needles and began the process of designing these most sacred pieces.
No lie. It took over six hours for the first one. By the time we started the second one we were old pros. We wrapped them in long boxes with wax paper. Each one got a good spray of cold water before being covered by cellophane and stored in the flower refrigerator. But can I stress the fact that we all held our breath when they were presented to the bride and groom. Silent prayers were made as they placed them over each others heads. Would you believe they held up? Through hugs, through dancing, and so much joyous celebration. When we gathered together for pictures, each of us dawning our beautiful indian wedding attire, how proud we were to be part of this union. So welcomed, and so so happy. Congratulations Daniel an Stepheny. All our love!