History of Wedding Flowers - Why They Are Used Today

How and Why It Began

The use of wedding flowers began centuries ago. It began as a tradition in which the bride wore a bridal bouquet was formed from garlands and wreathes. The garlands and wreathes were made from herbs and the buds of garlic. The reasoning for this was because they were said to get rid of any evil spirits which may be a threat to the future.

During this time, there was also a thing called a kissing knot, which was rosemary and roses tied together. It was then put over the heads of the bride and the groom at the table that they were sitting at during the reception. This was supposed to bring good luck to the couple, as well as everyone who was sitting at their table. There were also small flowers which were placed at the table of every guest at the wedding. This was supposed to bring the guests happiness in their lives.

Different Countries and Their Traditions

There are a number of different traditions associated with wedding flowers which only certain countries only have. In England, for example, the bride and bridesmaids would walk to the church together. The youngest girl would lead the group to the church, while sprinkling flowers along the way in order to add happiness to the bride’s life. Believe it or not, this tradition is still used today, as it is how flower girls came to be.

In the country of Sweden, the bridesmaid would carry bouquets of herbs and the groom would carry thyme in his pocket as they walked down the aisle. This was to scare off all of the trolls, which were a symbol of bad luck. In India, the best man of the groom would sprinkle flower petals on the bride and groom at the end of the ceremony. This was to ward off evil spirits, and bring better luck to their marriage. In Hawaii, both the bride and the groom wore leis which symbolized fertility and everlasting love. Many of these traditions are still used in these countries, and around the world, today.

Modern Flower Traditions

There are a number of different traditions which are more modern. For example, many women now toss a single flower from their bouquet to their mother as they are walking up the aisle, and one to their mother in law as she walks back up the aisle after being married. Other couples dress their dogs up in flowers and place a small pillow on their back. Their dogs act as a ring bearer. Another tradition is to preserve your wedding bouquet for good luck.

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