Wedding Flower Origins, History & Customs
Article by Emma ( Floradiction )

Since the beginning of time flowers have been used to represent emotions and merits. Early roman brides carried bunches of herbs under their veils symbolising fertility and fidelity as well as to ward off evil spirits. Ivy was used in ancient Greece as a sign of everlasting and unbreakable love. The ancient Saracens chose orange blossoms to represent happiness and fulfillment because the orange tree blooms and bears fruit simultaneously.

Bridesmaid’s bouquets were originally made up of strong smelling herbs such as rosemary and garlic instead of flowers. This was to ward off evil spirits that may have been eyeing off the bridal party.

The following are some examples of how flowers have been used in different customs in the past;

	America - In Louisiana, jazz musicians lead a procession to the reception venue from the church, followed by bridesmaids twirling umbrellas decorated in flowers.
	Austria - Brides crowned their veils with Myrtle, which is the flower of life.
	England - The wedding party and the village bride always walked to the church together. A small girl would lead the procession scattering blossoms along the road so the bride’s path through life would always be happy and filled with flowers.
	Germany - The bride and groom held candles decorated with flowers & ribbon.
	India - The groom’s brother sprinkles flower petals on the bride and groom at the end of the ceremony to ward off evil spirits.
	Samoa - The bride wears a fresh flower leis and a mother-of-pearl crown.
	Sweden - Bridesmaids carried bouquets of pungent herbs to frighten away trolls and the groom stitched thyme into his clothes.
	Switzerland - After the vows have been takes, the bride’s floral wreath, which symbolises her maidenhood, is removed and set on fire by the mistress of ceremonies. If it burns quickly it is considered to be lucky.
You may have a tradition that has been used in your family that you would like to incorporate into your wedding ceremony and celebrations. Some modern floral traditions include;
	The bride presents a single flower from her bouquet to her mother on her way down the aisle, and one to her new mother in law on her way back up the aisle after she has been married.
	Do you have a well-behaved pet pooch? Some couples are now decorating their pet dogs in flowers and placing a small ring pillow around their neck. They take the place of a ring bearer or pageboy.
	Have your bridal bouquet preserved and framed so you will have it always as a memento from your special day.

Floradiction
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This article has been reproduced on Wedding Central Australia with permission.
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