The History of the Bridal Bouquet
Flowers have been woven into wedding traditions for centuries, dating all the way back to ancient Greek and Roman times. While today’s bridal bouquets are often selected for their aesthetic appeal, their origins are deeply tied to symbolism, tradition, and even practical purposes. From warding off bad luck to enhancing a bride’s scent, the history of the bridal bouquet is as rich as it is fascinating.
Flowers as Offerings in Ancient Greece and Rome
In Greek and Roman times, flowers and herbs weren’t just for decoration—they were offerings to the gods. People believed that different deities controlled various aspects of life, from love and fertility to prosperity and protection. To secure the favor of these gods, wedding ceremonies incorporated symbolic plants such as ivy (representing a strong bond) and wheat (symbolizing abundance and fertility).
Brides would wear floral crowns and carry garlands, not just as a tribute to the gods but also as a way to invite prosperity and happiness into their marriage. This early practice laid the foundation for floral elements in wedding ceremonies that continue to this day.
The Origins of the Bouquet Toss
During medieval times, weddings took an unusual turn when guests started viewing the bride as a source of good luck. This led to a bizarre tradition where attendees would try to tear pieces of her dress as a token of fortune. To avoid being swarmed by eager guests, brides began throwing their bouquets as a distraction—thus giving birth to the bouquet toss tradition that remains popular today.
A Fragrant Purpose: The Role of Flowers in Hygiene
In earlier centuries, personal hygiene was vastly different from today. With limited access to bathing and no modern deodorants, body odor was a common concern. Flowers were often carried by brides not just for their beauty but also for their scent, helping to create a pleasant aroma around them. Women in medieval times even carried small posies—also called “tussie-mussies”—to hold up to their noses when walking through crowded and less-than-fragrant city streets.
The Symbolism of Flowers in Wedding Bouquets
Flowers have long been associated with specific meanings, and this symbolism was once an essential part of wedding floral choices. In Victorian times, couples used the “language of flowers” (floriography) to send messages through their bouquets. Roses symbolized love, lilacs represented the first stirrings of romance, and baby’s breath signified everlasting love.
Even today, some couples place importance on flower meanings when designing their wedding florals. While modern brides often prioritize aesthetics, the tradition of imbuing floral choices with personal significance continues for those who wish to weave symbolism into their special day.
Why Bridesmaids Also Carry Bouquets
Originally, only the bride carried flowers, but over time, bridesmaids were included in the tradition. The primary reason? Aesthetics. Holding bouquets gave bridesmaids a purposeful way to pose in photos while adding an extra element of beauty to the wedding party. Today, bridesmaid bouquets are carefully coordinated with the bridal bouquet to create a cohesive and elegant floral story.
A Tradition That Stands the Test of Time
The tradition of the bridal bouquet has evolved over thousands of years, but its core essence remains the same—celebrating love, beauty, and new beginnings. Whether a bride chooses flowers for their symbolism, fragrance, or simply their aesthetic charm, the bouquet continues to be a cherished part of wedding ceremonies across cultures.
From ancient offerings to modern-day floral artistry, the bridal bouquet carries the weight of history in every petal. It’s a testament to the lasting power of flowers in marking life’s most significant moments.