Have you ever taken a moment to consider the sentiment that lies behind all the deeply instilled wedding traditions? From the unveiling of the bride to the traditional term, “Tying the knot”, we go over interesting facts which stemmed the wedding rituals that make up one of the biggest days in your life.
ENGAGEMENT AND WEDDING RINGS
Turns out, it is your “ring finger” for a reason. The fourth finger on your left hand was believed that a vein ran directly from the fourth finger on your left hand directly to your heart. From this hand-heart connection, they chose the descriptive name, vena amoris, Latin for the vein of love. It soon became a symbolic declaration of love.
WHITE WEDDING DRESSES
It wasn’t until 1840 when Queen Victoria showed up to her wedding in a stunning white gown and the Western World’s white wedding dress tradition began. Years leading up to this, brides would simply chose their best dress for the occasion.
MATCHING MAIDS
What is it about coordinating matching dresses for your Bridesmaids? It so happens that it’s good luck! Dating back to the Roman times, people believed evil spirits would attend the wedding in attempts to curse the bride and groom. Bridesmaids were required to wear the same dress as the bride to confuse the spirits. Who knew?
THE UNVEILING
Similarly, the Greeks and Romans also held the belief that the veil would further protect the bride from any evil spirits. It’s no wonder why brides would wear their veil only to be uncovered after the fulfillment of the matrimony.
WEDDING CAKE
The traditional wedding cake was derived from Ancient Rome. Wedding guests would break a loaf of bread over the head of the bride for fertility’s sake.
TYING THE KNOT
Probably one of the most heard of phrase to describe the nuptial agreement. In cultures all over the world – including Egyptian, Celtic and Hindu weddings, the bride and groom’s hands are bound together with a tie to demonstrate their unwavering commitment of love.
While you plan your wedding day and celebrate this monumental moment in your lives, we hope you remember the roots of these traditions, and enjoy them that much more. At Cole Drake Events we are committed to delivering a memorable event. Tell us all about your day, perhaps it’s filled with new and old traditions!
