event. “Florals tend to range between 10 to 50 per cent of a decor budget. But, it depends on the nature of the function. For example, youngsters' parties and sangeet functions tend to be less flower heavy than most cocktail, mehendi, wedding ceremonies and reception functions,” explains Sethna, who has worked on weddings across India and Europe. CHOOSING FLOWER VARIETIES “Consider local and seasonal flowers as you can work wonders with them,” says Pereira. Most people don’t care for the smell of marigold flowers. Yet, this Indian flower is a quintessential part of every Indian wedding. “Even though marigolds are used a lot, we still believe they are a must at one of the many wedding parties at the very least. The beauty of marigolds should not be underestimated because they can be used in many unique ways, she says. FNP Weddings, the event-planning wing of the Ferns N Petals group, believes that a combination of exotic and Indian flowers with traditional marigold strings goes best with traditional setups. The mogra, loved for its dainty appeal and fragrance, is yet another popular Indian wedding flower. “Jasmines are a must at every Indian wedding and are perfect to create a stunning mandap,” says Pereira. Of late, imported flower varieties are also popular choices for floral displays at weddings, she adds. “Hydrangea come in a variety of pastel colours and are perfect for an event that has a western touch. Peonies are our favourite flower. You don’t see them used very often at weddings, but when used well they can lend a striking touch to a wedding “FLORAL DECOR IS GOING THE ORGANIC, NATURAL ROUTE THIS SEASON. IT’S ALL ABOUT USING SEASONAL BLOOMS" function,” she says. “Calla, oriental lilies and gypsophila can be coordinated with different exotic flowers and are perfect for weddings,” says Gutgutia, who explains that exotic varieties are easily imported from Holland, Bangkok and Colombia. However, it’s still important to plan for a backup because you might not end up receiving certain seasonal flowers owing to weather and transport conditions, advises Sethna. ADAPTING FLORAL TRENDS OF THE SEASON Floral design trends change with the turn of every season, reflecting not only the time of the year but also contemporary global trends. “Floral design that has a very organic, earthy, fresh and natural feel is trending at the moment,” says Pereira. “Rather than the arranged look, we are working Floral set-up by FNP Weddings Floral arrangement by Marry Me Weddings with the fresh-picked-from-thegarden look right now.” Sethna agrees, saying, “Floral decor is going the organic, natural <strong>route</strong> this season. It’s all about seasonal blooms with a foraged, woodland aesthetic. Wild woodland-inspired bouquets with lush ferns, greens and branches as well as succulents will be used a lot this season.” Yet another global floral design trend at weddings this season is the use of hues of pink and contrasting blues and greens, in keeping with Pantone’s global shades of the year, Rose Quartz and Serenity Blue, says Sethna. FNP Weddings will be using a lot of English cut flowers and organic material, dried flowers, roots and different kinds of fresh leaves and berries in wedding setups this season. 110 ||||| NOVEMBER <strong>2016</strong>
3 www.mitashi.com Customer Care : 1800 102 9705 Mitashi Products are also Available at (offer may vary) ONLINE Partner