The History Behind Wedding Traditions

If you’re planning a wedding, you may be wondering the background of some of the traditions associated with your big day. Here are several of the most popular wedding traditions and the history behind them.

The Bouquet

Selecting wedding flowers may be a tough decision, but this tradition has been followed by brides for centuries. Originally, brides would carry things such as garlic and spices to ward off evil spirits. Various herbs were added to the bouquet several years later in order to promote fertility and signify new beginnings.

Bouquet Toss

Along with the actual bouquet history, there is a significant meaning behind the bride’s bouquet toss. Traditionally, it was good luck for the wedding guests to take home a piece of the bride’s dress. To keep the dress intact, brides began to toss their bouquet instead. Today it is tossed to single women and whoever catches it is thought to be the next to marry.

The Rings

Besides being the most important part of a marriage, the rings have an interesting history. Wedding rings are worn on the fourth finger of the left hand because it is thought that the “Vein of Love” located in this finger is directly connected to the heart. The circle shape also symbolizes never-ending love.