Best Flowers for an Indian Wedding: A Complete Guide
Indian weddings are renowned for their vibrant colors, elaborate décor, and symbolic traditions. Flowers play a crucial role—used in mandaps, garlands (varmalas), entrances, table settings, and even bridal hairstyles. Here's a curated florist’s list of the best flowers for different elements of an Indian wedding:
1. Marigold (Genda)
Significance: Symbolizes prosperity and auspiciousness
Color: Orange, yellow
Use: Mandap decoration, entrances, floral curtains, torans
Why it's great: Readily available, long-lasting, culturally symbolic, budget-friendly
2. Roses
Significance: Love, beauty, and passion
Colors: Red (love), pink (grace), white (purity)
Use: Garlands, bouquets, table arrangements, bridal bun decor
Why it's great: Universally loved, highly fragrant, comes in many shades
3. Jasmine (Mogra/Mallige)
Significance: Purity, elegance, divine energy
Color: White
Use: Hair adornments, garlands, pooja décor
Why it's great: Heavenly fragrance, small but impactful, traditional in South India
4. Orchids
Significance: Luxury, exotic beauty, strength
Colors: Purple, white, pink, blue
Use: Centerpieces, garlands, bridal bouquets
Why it's great: Sophisticated and unique; adds a modern touch
5. Tuberose (Rajnigandha)
Significance: Peace and calm
Color: White
Use: Varmalas, mandap backdrops, floral strings
Why it's great: Fresh, aromatic, especially popular for evening functions
6. Lotus (Kamal)
Significance: Sacredness, purity, spiritual awakening
Color: Pink, white
Use: Stage décor, floating arrangements, pooja elements
Why it's great: Deeply rooted in Indian mythology and divine symbolism
7. Chrysanthemums
Significance: Happiness and longevity
Colors: White, yellow, pink
Use: General décor, flower walls, stage accents
Why it's great: Available year-round, hardy and voluminous
8. Hydrangeas
Significance: Gratitude and abundance
Colors: Blue, pink, purple
Use: Bridal bouquets, centerpieces, floral installations
Why it's great: Adds fullness and texture; great for luxe weddings
Tips for Choosing Wedding Flowers
Seasonality Matters: Use locally available, seasonal flowers for freshness and cost-efficiency.
Mix Traditional and Modern: Combine marigolds or jasmine with orchids or hydrangeas for a fusion aesthetic.
Fragrance Factor: Opt for naturally fragrant flowers (jasmine, tuberose) for poojas and indoor settings.
Regional Preferences:
South India: Jasmine, lotus, kanakambaram (crossandra)
North India: Marigolds, roses, tuberose
West India: Mix of roses, marigolds, mogra
East India: Lotus, rose, sheuli (night jasmine)
