Have You Ever Wondered About Where Certain Wedding Traditions Came From?
As you are busy planning your wedding, you may not consider why certain wedding traditions even exist. As you rush to find something blue or borrowed, have you ever thought of why blue? Why do brides wear a veil and why is the wedding dress traditionally white? What is really behind the wedding cake tradition? Let’s take a closer look at some of the popular wedding traditions and find out where they came from and why we still stress over every one of them.
Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue
Did you know that this tradition came from an Old English rhyme? The “Something Old” represents continuity; “Something New” offers optimism and hope for the future; the “Something Borrowed” actually symbolizes borrowed happiness; and “Something Blue” stands for purity, love and fidelity. If you are looking for some good ideas to fulfil this particular tradition, check our our Do you have something Blue blog – HERE.
Why the Ring Finger?
The ring finger actually was chosen for a reason. Engagement and wedding rings are worn on the fourth finger of the left hand because it was once though that a vein in that finger led directly to the heart.
Why are wedding dresses traditionally White?
In 1840, Queen Victoria started the Western World’s white wedding dress tradition when she wore white at her own wedding. Prior to 1840, brides simply wore their best dress.
Why do brides wear a veil?
The veil tradition dates back to the ancient Greek and Roman time. People believed that the wedding veil protected the bride from evil spirits.
Did you know there is a lot more to the Wedding Cake than icing?
The wedding cake tradition goes back to the ancient Romans. The groom would break a loaf of barley bread over the bride’s head to promote fertility. Guests would then scramble to pick up the crumbs in order to take home of the good luck.
Where did the phrase “Tying The knot” Come from?
In many cultures around the world, the hands of the bride and groom are literally tied together during the ceremony. This demonstrates the couple’s commitment to each other and their new bond.
Where did the word “Honeymoon” come from?
Honeymoons have not always been extravagant trips to far off places. It actually is something a little bit more simple. The word derives from the old English hony moone. Hony refers to the new marriage’s sweetness and a reference to an old European custom. After a couple was married, they would go into hiding and family members would bring them a cup of honey wine or mead for 30 days (or one moon). This is how the term “Honeymoon” came about.
Why are June Weddings so popular?
The Roman goddess Juno rules over marriage and childbirth and is their protector.
Why do brides carry a bouquet of flowers?
In ancient Rome, brides carried or wore flower garlands because they believed the flowers signified new beginnings, fidelity and a hope of fertility. In the Middle Ages, the flowers along with herbs and spices were thought to ward off evil spirits, bad luck, ill health and they also helped to mask body odor.
Whether you follow the wedding traditions for good luck or just for fun, enjoy your unique wedding day. If you need help with selecting a wedding dress, wedding shoes, a veil, or any other accessory, come to Pearl’s Place Bridal, we would love to help you make a new tradition.
