Five in the morning at Gultekdi flower market
What we buy at dawn, how we judge a bunch of roses, and why we never stock up for the week.
Choosing wedding garlands
Flowers, length and timing for varmala that look right in photos and last through the day.
The varmala exchange is one of the most photographed moments of a wedding, and the garlands are usually worn for hours afterwards. Choosing them is about more than colour.
Start with the outfits. We ask for a photo of both, so the garlands contrast rather than disappear. A red saree with a red rose garland looks flat in photos; marigold, white shevanti or jasmine makes it stand out.
Next, think about weight. A full rose varmala can weigh over 2 kg. Marigold and shevanti are lighter and hold their shape longer in heat, which matters at an outdoor afternoon muhurtham.
Length depends on height. Most varmala are 4 feet long and fall to the waist. For a groom over 6 feet, ask for 4.5 feet.
Garlands are made on the morning of the wedding and kept on ice until they leave the studio. Order at least three days ahead, and give us a contact at the venue. We deliver to the bride’s room, so the garlands spend as little time as possible in the heat.
