The Bridal Bouquet

The tradition of carrying a bridal bouquet dates back to medieval times when the bride carried a bouquet of garlic and herbs to ward off evil spirits as she processed toward her groom.  Over time the bouquet evolved into a bouquet of flowers instead.

Flowers, as you know, all have their own symbolic (magickal) meanings and uses.  A wise bride will choose her bridal bouquet carefully in order to enchant her day to her utmost benefit.

I designed my bridal bouquet from roses.  I have ten red roses, symbolizing the ten years Frank and I have been together and two white roses, symbolizing the two of us coming together anew and embarking on our path as a married couple.

Red Roses mean passion, love.

White Roses mean purity and innocence.

When you mix white and red roses together they meant "Unity".  What better meaning for a bridal bouquet?

My Matron of Honor is carrying a bouquet of Pink Roses, Pink symbolic of my saying "Thank You" to her for her extensive assistance in planning this wedding, and Light Pink Roses, which symbolize happiness.

Where did the tradition of throwing the bouquet come from?

Now that's an odd one...

I am one-quarter English, and this is a tradition that originated in England many centuries ago.  Attendees at the wedding wished to share in the happiness of the bride and would grab at her clothes and her person, trying to get a "piece" of her happiness.  At times, they would actually chase her!  The bride actually began throwing the bouquet as a self-protective act and as the tradition grew, it came to develop into the tradition of tossing it to all of the single women at the wedding, with the "catcher" of the bouquet predicted to become the next bride.

Geez, I'm glad I don't have to try to run in the dress I'm wearing!

Copyright © 2007 Brigid Bishop

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