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The pandemic has completely changed the face of lavish Indian weddings into an intimate affair reserved for the closest few. Florists and local craftsmen are among the worst affected due to this downsizing, add to that the preference of mass-manufactured goods over handcrafted ones due to various reasons.
Why Include Local Arts And Crafts
We can all agree that handcrafted, personalised décor and gifts in a wedding only add to the magic and make the event a memorable one, not just for the couple, but also for the guests. “By working with artisans and craftsmen, we also give them a chance to reinterpret their crafts in contemporary ways, to adapt their skills to technology and new ideas. This innovative and holistic approach helps craft traditions to regain the recognition they deserve,” says wedding designer Ambika Gupta, Founder and Creative Director of The A-Cube Project.
Any designer who works with indigenous design traditions and embroideries also ends up adding contextual authenticity and substance to the ambience, she adds. “For instance, if I am designing a destination wedding in Jaipur, it would make sense to channel local colours, textures and crafts because why else travel to a destination, if you don’t want to celebrate its uniqueness in every possible way?” the wedding designer asks.
How To Include Local Arts And Crafts
It is also the perfect time to play around with themes and find the perfect match for a perfect wedding. Since we can now have a smaller guest list without feeling guilty, the budget saved can be used to make your wedding more personalised. From handcrafted outfits and décor to invitation cards and return gifts, the possibilities are endless in which one can incorporate customised handcrafted goods. “This is where designers need to unleash their creative sensibilities and channel local designs wherever possible. For instance, during a Mehndi celebration in Jaipur, I used Kantha embroidery in cushions, props, linens, drapes and spreads. What is important is that you edit the colours and textures available to you according to your theme and don’t go overboard,” she notes.
Gupta researched kantha embroidery extensively and sourced the exact colour palette that was needed for a Capri-inspired décor. She didn't use all the varied colour schemes just because they were available. “What emerged finally, perfectly articulated the theme of ‘Kantha Amour’, because Italy happened to be the favourite destination of the couple and also because the bride loves varied textiles. As a designer, you also need to explore local markets to know what is available, source what you need and convert it into a beautiful prop. The kantha, for instance, caught my eye many years ago during a trip to Jaipur’s Bada Bazaar. It was pure serendipity because much later, I used the fabric for the event I told you about where it synchronised perfectly with the theme,” Gupta further adds.
Inspiration To Include Local Arts And Crafts
Still confused? Here is some inspiration that you can use…
Image: Shutterstock
Personalised return gifts/welcome hampers: A personalised hamper packed with local delicacies, handcrafted showpieces, or any other speciality the city has to offer can be included in a locally crafted basket along with a thank you card.
Image: Shutterstock
Themed Décor: You can play with colours and textures like Gupta suggests and come up with a theme that you love which can be brought to life using locally available materials.
Image: Shutterstock
Handcrafted Outfits: You can scour your local markets to look for unique handcrafted materials for a gorgeous royal lehenga, sari or sherwani. If time permits, you can also hire a skilled craftsman to design your outfit from scratch, therefore making it even more special.
Image: Shutterstock
Invitations and Paper Décor: If you want to go the extra mile, you can also have your wedding invitation cards and other signs, posters and paper décor needed at your wedding be customised using handcrafted paper, flowers or lights.
Also Read: Destination Weddings In The Post-Pandemic Era
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