Goa is a highly popular tourist destination, attracting thousands of visitors from India and abroad, including celebrities, each year. The end of the year, in particular, sees hordes of tourists descending on the state to revel in the Christmas and New Year festivities.
And, it isn’t just tourists who make a beeline for the state at this time of year. So do plenty of non-resident Goans, as they return to their homeland – from various far-flung locations across the globe – to spend Christmas with family, making it the perfect opportunity to tie the knot, considering that the entire family will be able to attend the happy occasion.
CHANGING WEDDING SCENE
Back in the day, the bridal gown was stitched at home, while pretty roses and delicate asparagus ferns (Asparagus setaceus (kunth) jessop), plucked from local home gardens, were used to fashion the bridal bouquet as well as decorate the wedding car at Goan Catholic weddings.
Wedding halls were unheard of and so, wedding receptions were held at home, while celebratory catering was done (in the home of the bride/groom) by the village randpin/mestin (cook).
But, that was then, and these days, weddings in Goa are largely grand affairs.
Over the years, Goa has become a hot wedding destination. Its swaying palms, beautiful beaches, heritage structures, picturesque landscapes and chilled out ambience make it an ideal setting to get hitched, and several celebrities have exchanged vows in this tropical paradise on the western coast of India.
When it comes to planning the perfect wedding, numerous elements come together, of which the dream venue and fairytale gown is uppermost on the list of every bride – Goan or otherwise.
But, what’s a stunning gown or venue without accessories to add the finishing touches? Beautiful bouquets, chic boutonnieres, hair accessories, ring holders and more are the little things that add pizzazz to any wedding. And, what’s even more exciting is that all of this can be custom made to suit the bridal theme, thus ensuring a picture perfect day.
So, if you’re planning a wedding in Goa, don’t forget the all-important aforementioned accessories. And, if you don’t know where you can get them, here’s help:
The Glitter Box
SPECIALISTS IN: Wedding accessories (artificial floral bouquets, ring holders, champagne glasses, photo charms, boutonnieres, hair accessories, handheld/wrist accessories), gift hampers, event styling, customized décor
FOUNDER: Minaliz Chico
OPENED IN: 2018
LOCATION: Taleigao, North Goa
CONTACT: +91 96890 81715
https://www.facebook.com/theglitterboxgoa/
Wedding Bliss
SPECIALISTS IN: Bridal accessories, handmade decorations, handmade earrings, handmade clips, Christmas décor, bouquets, ring holders and other craft items
FOUNDER: Fiona Fernandes
OPENED IN: 2015
LOCATION: Margao, South Goa
CONTACT: +91 91681 72720
https://www.instagram.com/weddingbliss17/
Little Flowers
SPECIALISTS IN: Bridal bouquets (both, fresh & artificial), custom ring-holders, head gear, table pieces, etc
FOUNDER: Janessa D’Souza
OPENED IN: 2009
LOCATION: Old Goa, North Goa
CONTACT: +91 78752 38531
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063908443605
Virginia’s Creations
SPECIALISTS IN: Custom bridal bouquets (especially cascading lilies), ring holders, all bridal accessories
FOUNDER: Virginia D’Cruz
OPENED IN: 2009
LOCATION: Saligao, North Goa
CONTACT: +91 96233 47245
https://weddingsdegoa.com/wdglisting/virginia-creations/