Roses mean love, lilies mean virtue. Centuries ago brides carried pungent herbs and spices down the aisle meant to ward off evil spirits but today brides carry beautiful bouquets of flowers that coordinate with her wedding decor and season.
Thought it might be fun to research some floral wedding traditions from around the world. Did you know that the tradition of wearing a white wedding gown began in France several hundred years ago? In French weddings even today the most important aspect of chosen florals is fragrance.
In Spain orange tree blossoms are the most popular flower for weddings, theses blooms are meant to bring the couple happiness and fulfillment because it is the only tree that bears fruit and has flowers at the same time! In Thailand the bride & groom have their hands linked together with a chain of florals wishing upon them a life full of luck and beauty.
Chains of florals are very common in many cultures, take the lei for instance. The lei symbolizes love & respect; created from fragrant, exotic blooms & colourful ribbons they are an integral part of Hawaiian celebrations.
Are you incorporating any traditions using flowers in your wedding? What about a throw away bouquet? Many brides today are bringing this tradition back. It is very common to ask your florist to design a small version of your bouquet to toss when the time comes so you can keep yours to enjoy.
What about tossing petals after you have said your I-Do’s? Or presenting each matriarch of the family with a single bloom during the ceremony? Even the simple act of distinguishing special guests with boutonnieres and corsages is a tradition! So even if you don’t want wear something borrowed or blue perhaps a floral tradition from days past or another culture would be a nice addition to your special day.
*Previously posted on Wedding Style Diva 2009
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