Symbolism of Flower Garlands in Weddings Across Cultures

Flower garland for wedding has been an integral part of weddings for centuries, symbolizing love, purity, and prosperity. While their designs and meanings vary across cultures, they universally represent the beauty and sacredness of marriage. Let’s explore the significance of flower garlands in different wedding traditions.

Symbolism of Flower Garlands in Weddings Across Cultures

India: A Sacred Exchange of Love

In Indian weddings, flower garlands, known as “varmala” or “jaimala,” hold deep spiritual significance. The bride and groom exchange garlands as a symbol of acceptance, respect, and unity. The flowers used, such as roses, marigolds, and jasmine, are chosen for their auspicious meanings—roses for love, marigolds for positivity, and jasmine for purity. This ritual marks the couple’s consent to marriage in Hindu traditions.

Hawaii: Aloha and Blessings

In Hawaiian weddings, lei garlands are exchanged as a gesture of love and mutual respect. Made of fresh tropical flowers like orchids and plumeria, leis symbolize the unbreakable bond between the couple. The act of placing the lei around the partner’s neck represents the welcoming of their soul into one’s life, much like the Hawaiian spirit of aloha—love and compassion.

Thailand: A Circle of Blessings

Thai weddings feature phuang malai, delicate floral garlands that symbolize good fortune and eternal love. These garlands are often draped around the couple’s necks during a water-pouring ceremony, where elders bless their union. Traditional Thai flowers like jasmine and lotus, representing purity and enlightenment, are commonly used in these wedding garlands.

Greece: A Symbol of Fertility and Devotion

Greek weddings often incorporate floral garlands into the wedding crowns, or “stefana.” These crowns, made of intertwined flowers, olive branches, or vines, represent the couple’s unity and the blessings of nature. Ancient Greeks believed that garlands brought fertility, happiness, and protection against evil spirits.

Bali: Offerings to the Divine

Balinese weddings include flower garlands as part of elaborate ceremonial offerings. Couples wear floral adornments to honor the gods and seek divine blessings for their marriage. The garlands, often made of frangipani and jasmine, symbolize harmony between the spiritual and physical worlds.

Conclusion

Across cultures, flower garland for wedding symbolizes love, purity, unity, and divine blessings. Whether exchanged between partners or offered in sacred ceremonies, they remain a timeless expression of beauty and devotion in marriage traditions worldwide.