Weddings are all about traditions, those we keep and those we make. Just in case you are curious about the meanings and reasons behind some of the most popular wedding traditions, we created this little list to help you plan.
Engagement Rings
Engagement rings are a wedding tradition that seem to be sticking around. Where did the idea of engagement rings originate? This symbol of promise and acceptance of a future marriage can be traced back to about 200 BC in Rome. The fourth finger on the left hand was believed to be connected directly to the heart by "the vein of love," which is why we wear our rings on the left ring finger.
The Wedding Party
Ancient Roman law required ten witnesses during the ceremony, which is probably where the idea of a wedding party originated. The best man was a little more than a representative, since weddings were a business transaction. The best man was about having the best swordsmanship to help the groom deal with the business transaction and round up a runaway bride. Today, the groom brings his bestfriend to his side to provide emotional support and help in other ways.
Wedding Traditions with Flowers
Flowers are one of the most loved wedding traditions. In ancient Greek and Roman ceremonies, the brides and grooms were adorned with garlands to represent fertility and the beginning of their life together. The idea of carrying herbs and spices was to ward off evil spirits. We have the 1840 marriage between Queen Victoria and Prince Albert to thank for changing wedding bouquets to the beautiful variety of flowers we love.
Wearing a Veil
Wedding veils are a symbolic element with a little history that takes us back to Rome during a time when brides veiled their face to hide from evil. Depending on religion and culture, wedding veils are everything from a symbol of class to hiding from the groom before marriage. Regardless of the history claimed or the reasons for wearing them, wedding veils have made the journey to Western wedding traditions and are absolutely beautiful.
The Garter Toss
The garter toss originated in the Dark Ages. It was thought to be good luck to rip a piece of the bride’s wedding gown for a keepsake. To appease the guests and save the gown, the groom tossed the garter at the crowd. Tossing the garter would buy them just enough time to make their escape to privacy. The honeymoon was something quite different during those times, and the garter was a needed diversion. Today, the groom removes the garter during the reception and tosses it into the crowd.
Unity Wedding Traditions
Unity wedding traditions are ways to make to make the ceremony more meaningful. The sand ceremony, unity candle ceremony and hand fasting ceremony are popular wedding traditions. During a sand ceremony, the bride and groom combine colorful sand into one decorate vase. During a unity candle ceremony, the bride and groom light a pillar candle together. A hand fasting ceremony binds the bride and groom together during a ritual that involves an exchange of vows and a special reading. These wedding traditions represent joining the two as one.
Crystal Ballroom Ocala
Bring your meaningful wedding traditions to Crystal Ballroom Ocala, and create a fairy tale in this picturesque venue. Meet with professional wedding designers and planners to create a romantic experience that will be remembered forever. This all-inclusive wedding venue includes all of the designs and services. Contact Crystal Ballroom to begin planning.
