Photo by artist: Alfred Cheney Johnston
The history of wedding bouquets
In the grand tapestry of wedding traditions, few symbols capture the essence of romance and elegance quite like the bridal bouquet. A delicate arrangement of blossoms, it graces the hands of brides and adds an enchanting touch to their ensemble. But have you ever wondered about the origins and significance behind this age-old practice? Join us as we embark on a captivating journey through history to unravel the story behind bridal bouquets and explore the profound meaning they carry.
Ancient Roots: Guardians of the good fortune
The roots of the bridal bouquet tradition dig deep into the annals of ancient civilizations. In ancient Rome, brides clutched bundles of fragrant herbs, such as rosemary and thyme, not only for their pleasant scent but also for their believed protective qualities. These aromatic bouquets were thought to ward off evil spirits and ensure a prosperous future for the newlyweds. Similarly, in ancient Greece, brides carried aromatic herbs and flowers to symbolize fidelity, happiness, and fertility—essential elements for a successful marriage.
Victorian Language of Flowers: A Whisper of Sentiments
It was during the Victorian era that the bouquet gained a whole new layer of meaning. The language of flowers, or floriography, became popular, allowing brides to convey emotions and messages through their choice of blooms. Each flower held a unique sentiment—roses for love, lilies for purity, and violets for loyalty. Brides took great care in selecting flowers that would communicate their feelings to their beloved and to the world, transforming the bouquet into a heartfelt declaration.
Medieval Symbolism: More Than Meets the Eye
As time marched on, the practice of carrying bouquets evolved. In medieval Europe, where personal hygiene was less than optimal, brides carried bouquets primarily to mask less-than-pleasant odors. These bouquets, composed of strong-smelling herbs and spices, served a practical purpose while also symbolizing the bride's purity and innocence—a fragrant defense against the trials of wedded life.
photo and florals: @designedby.kenn
Modern Expression: A Symbol of Love and Unity
In the modern era, the tradition of bridal bouquets has evolved to become a cherished element of wedding ceremonies. While the practical aspects have faded, the symbolic significance remains deeply ingrained. The bouquet represents the bride's individuality, style, and personal taste, much like the unique journey that led her to her partner. As she walks down the aisle, the bouquet symbolizes the beauty of her transition from single life to marital unity—a testament to the commitment she is making.
photo and florals: @designedby.kenn
The Meaning Carried Today
Today, the bridal bouquet stands as a symbol of love, hope, and the beginning of a new chapter. It embodies the beauty of the past, the promises of the present, and the dreams of the future. As the bride holds her bouquet, she holds more than just flowers—she carries the weight of tradition, the emotions of the moment, and the anticipation of the life she is about to embark upon.
photo and florals: @calma_floral
new expression: Your forever bouquet.
Bridal bouquets have a rich and storied history that spans cultures and centuries. From their early beginnings as protective charms to their transformation into eloquent expressions of emotion, these delicate arrangements have stood the test of time. Today, as brides walk down the aisle clutching their carefully curated bouquets, they continue a tradition that speaks to the heart of what weddings truly represent—a celebration of love, unity, and the timeless journey of two souls coming together.
What if there was a way you could encapsulate this rich history and beauty of your bridal bouquet and keep it forever? Pressed Floral has called upon and adapted the historical hobby of pressing flowers into modern techniques of floral preservation so you can keep your sentimental bridal bouquet forever. The expression and tradition of flowers as a bridal bouquet might change over time, but the opportunity to preserve your bouquet can be a testament of your own history and the love you have cultivated.
