Transitioning from a career in architectural science to the world of event and wedding styling might seem like a leap of faith, but for Guna Nandini, it was a calling that has shaped her life in profound ways. In 2018, Nandini made the bold decision to pivot from architecture to the creative world of event design, a move that has since led her to a fulfilling and innovative career.
Nandini, now 34, reflects on her journey with a sense of wonder and gratitude. “I never anticipated diving into such a different field when I left my architectural career. However, that leap of faith led me to where I am today, and I find myself falling in love with every wedding I design from the heart.”
Her education background in Architectural Science, earned at Curtin University of Technology, provided a strong foundation for her creative pursuits. However, Nandini soon realized that her true passion lay in a different realm. Driven by intuition and a desire to explore new creative avenues, she began experimenting with handmade paper flowers. What started as a humble venture quickly evolved into a thriving business.
For as long as I can remember, even as a child, I was always given the creative liberty to express and nurture my artistic interest, which encouraged me to cultivate an eccentric mindset.
“I initially believed I was ready to dive deep and expand my portfolio, but I soon realized that my creative path was meant for something different. Guided by this intuition, I began experimenting with ideas that led to a modest startup focused on handmade paper flowers, hoping it would grow into something more significant. During my lunch breaks, I practiced this newfound craft, seeking the most cost-effective way to enter the field and gradually advance,” Nandini said.
The Birth of “Dausche Avasa”
Nandini’s initial foray into the world of event styling involved crafting intricate paper flowers, which were initially used as supplies for larger event decorations. Her efforts soon transformed into exclusive custom collections, gracing spaces from storefronts and studios to homes. This marked the inception of her event decorating business, “Dausche Avasa,” a name that means “home” in Sanskrit.
Nandini’s transition from architecture to event design was not without its challenges, but her creative approach and meticulous attention to detail paid off. She credits her architectural background with helping her envision and execute multidimensional designs, which has been crucial in her event styling work.
“Although architecture and event styling might seem like vastly different fields, they actually share more common ground than I initially thought. My background in envisioning and designing multidimensional layers helped me achieve a more refined and polished finish in my work.
This foundational skill proved invaluable as I transitioned to creating meticulously symmetrical paper flowers. What began as supplies for larger event decorations evolved into exclusive custom collections, adorning spaces such as storefronts, studios, boutiques, and homes. This journey eventually led to the creation of my own event decorating business, ‘Dausche Avasa,’ which means ‘home’ in Sanskrit.”
A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity
As an Indian girl with a deep appreciation for classic films, Nandini drew inspiration from the works of renowned Director Mani Ratnam. Her fascination with his storytelling and aesthetic style led her to conceptualize wedding themes based on his films. This unique approach allowed her to blend traditional elements with contemporary design, creating weddings that are both nostalgic and innovative.
Nandini said that, “as a 90s Indian girl with a deep affection for classic love stories, I chose to base my wedding themes on the films of renowned Indian director Mani Ratnam. During my adolescence, I was captivated by the way his movies resonated with me and many other Indian teenagers.
Mani Ratnam’s storytelling had a unique quality that set his work apart, characterized by meticulous attention to detail and a rhythmic aesthetic. Inspired by his methodical yet poetic style, I aimed to infuse this essence into my wedding decor. Striking a balance between staying true to this vision and highlighting individual details was both challenging and rewarding.”
One notable project involved styling both a wedding and reception for a close friend, where Nandini had complete creative freedom. She developed a niche for blending traditional South Indian elements with contemporary fashion, using items like banana leaves, antique brass-wear, and ancient Sanskrit block prints in modern arrangements.
Nandini is committed to sustainability in the wedding industry, which she sees as often wasteful. “In my personal opinion, the wedding industry can be rather wasteful, and one of the more mindful practices I strive to continue is repurposing vintage and pre-loved items,” she explains. This commitment extends to using old sarees from her family to create beautiful tablecloths, drapery, and other decor items.
“A saree is draped till one’s heart’s content,” Nandini says. “Even if there is a minor stain, I carefully transform them into curtain drapes, then alter them into side table runners, and finally into decorative ribbons and tassels for another event.”
“What began as using old sarees from my mother, grandmother, and relatives for my own wedding has now become a regular practice in styling for clients. I repurpose these cherished fabrics into ethereal tablecloths, drapery, installations, statement cushion covers, decorative hangings, and a variety of other elements. This approach not only extends the life of these materials but also revives and celebrates their unique, one-of-a-kind prints.”
Her approach to design involves looking beyond conventional uses for items. For example, a chair might be repurposed as a decorative piece housing pottery or wildflowers, while a plant holder stool could serve as the base for coffee table books and a lamp shade.
“Designing weddings inspired by movies naturally attracted clients with similar tastes, adding a layer of intrigue to each project and presenting the challenge of translating cinematic themes into décor that remains sophisticated and cohesive. My latest project was a whimsical interpretation of “The Lord of the Rings” with a South Indian twist, requested by a delightfully quirky couple for their micro-wedding. These kinds of projects are my favorite, as they offer a thrilling adventure in balancing and juxtaposing elements to create something truly unique.”
The post-pandemic shift towards intimate weddings has resonated with Nandini, who values the personal connections and meaningful experiences these smaller gatherings offer. “As much as I love the grandeur of extravagant weddings, there’s no denying that intimacy and human connection make the day truly special,” she reflects.
“One of the changes among many that has been brought upon us post pandemic are intimate weddings. This huge shift in culture, especially among Indians is great because you are able to scale down your focus into creating a ‘feel-good’ event rather than something purely for its grandeur. As much as I love the fiesta that comes with more extravagant weddings, there’s no denying that intimacy and human connection along with everything else that is planned is what makes the day meaningful,” Nandini told.
A Journey of Continual Growth
Nandini finds joy in the ever-evolving nature of her work. “For someone who could never fit in the 9-5 world, this was such a treat since no two days are ever the same or repetitive,” she says. Her days are filled with trips to thrift stores, fabric sampling, and collaborating with local artisans to bring her visions to life.
She emphasizes the importance of finding inspiration beyond Pinterest, drawing from everyday experiences and surroundings. “Inspiration can come from almost anywhere,” Nandini notes. “The only constant has to be malleable ideas and never the need to adhere to trends or gimmicks.”
“I sincerely believe in being able to create the slightest impact even if there was a single sustainable choice made throughout an entire event and that there are more than subtle nuances that come from learning a couple’s love story and being intentional with what in due course becomes a reflection of their own style at their wedding.
It’s been quite the journey from merely setting cutest picnic table décor at my whole heart, but I pray that I’m able to continue creating art that breathes magic and life into the mundane and attract those who share similar values with me in that process.”
As she looks to the future, Nandini remains dedicated to crafting beautiful, meaningful events that reflect the unique stories and styles of her clients. Her passion for blending tradition with modernity and her commitment to sustainability ensure that her work will continue to inspire and captivate for years to come.
“With each wedding, I hope to continue to learn, educate and change the landscape of event decor in any small way I can – Guna Nandini”
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