Look at seven of the most popular customs associated with wedding days in the United States. Of course, traditional wedding rituals, such as the bouquet toss and garter search, continue to garner significant interest. Today, we’ll discuss a handful that is commonplace at most weddings and the ideas that contributed to their rise to prominence in the first place. To get things started, here are a few suggestions from our colleagues at Brides.com that you might not have heard of before:
The Garter Belt Toss
The garter belt toss is a time-honored practice, and there are two schools of thought regarding its origin. First, because it was believed that possessing a portion of the bridal dress would bring the wearer good luck, people at weddings would attack the bride to take off a section of her clothing. Oh my goodness, and not at all, please. So, after some time, brides started donning a particular piece of apparel known as the garter, which was eventually given out as the lucky piece. PHEW! One such idea is that the garter will be seen as evidence of consummation by the bride’s relatives and friends.
Jordan Almonds
The custom of giving five almonds to the bride and groom during their wedding in Italy represents five wishes: for the couple’s health, fortune, happiness, fertility, and longevity. These adorable candies originate from the Middle East and have a long history of use as an aphrodisiac. These candy almonds are traditionally packaged in odd numbers and presented on a silver tray, as is customary in Greek culture. Because odd numbers cannot be divided, this is a metaphor for how the newlyweds will continue to be united while sharing everything.
The Wedding Gift from the Father to the Bride
If a bride and groom were brought together in an arranged marriage, the bride was seen as their father’s property, and the groom was the recipient of this gift from the bride’s father. This custom has been carried on down the years, and in recent times, there have even been some wonderful variations introduced to cater to the newlyweds’ tastes!
And here’s a more contemporary perspective: walking down the aisle with someone who is about to get married is an honor, and it seems sensible to choose a friend, loved one, or family member as your attendant. A simple question asked of a friend can strengthen the bond between the two of you and is also a touching way to show that you care. But, of course, you can also walk down the aisle, which is an affirming alternative.
“Something Olde, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue, a Sixpence in Your Shoe”
There is no question in my mind that you have been exposed to this previously. But what exactly does that entail? Let’s analyze it in more detail!
Something ancient symbolizes perseverance; something new denotes a constructive outlook on the future; something borrowed represents the happiness that has been borrowed; and something blue represents love, fidelity, and purity. The custom of putting a sixpence in your shoe stems from British culture. This age-old proverb is part of a wedding tradition in which bridesmaids receive and carry little charms before walking down the aisle.
The Cake for the Wedding
There are many stories and customs surrounding wedding cakes, so please let me share some of my all-time favorites with you. The bread was traditionally broken over the head of the bride at wedding ceremonies in Ancient Rome to bring the pair good luck. In Medieval England, the bride and groom would kiss over a cake piled as high as possible for the occasion. Then, the married couple’s first shared responsibility is to cut the wedding cake. Still, before they do so, it’s essential to recognize the occasion’s cultural significance: traditionally, this action signals to guests that they may now leave.
The Veil
Throughout history, wearing a bridal veil has come to represent submission and modesty. In addition, the covering of a woman’s head is seen as a sign of reverence in many different religions. The future bride wears a veil that conceals her face and hair, symbolizing her commitment to maintaining her virginity till marriage.
The Honeymoon
Historically, newlywed couples celebrated their new union by imbibing a fermented wine made from mead and honey for the entire period of a complete moon cycle, which was approximately one month. And many believe that the honeymoon originated from the days when grooms would kidnap their brides.
Learn more: Wedding Cake Trends You Should Know