There are so many traditions that are a part of a classic wedding ceremony and reception that it’s easy to overlook the history and just move through the planning process. Many couples these days are bypassing a number of wedding traditions for myriad reasons. When deciding if you want to have certains traditions for your own special day, it can help to know the meaning behind these practices. Choosing traditions that mean something to you will make your wedding day so much more special, unique, and memorable. 

White Wedding Dress

Queen Victoria started the white wedding dress tradition in 1840 when she married Prince Albert. This is considered the first big celebrity wedding, and photos were sent all over the world. A white wedding dress was a sign of wealth and status. Most women just wore their best dress because they needed something more practical that could be worn more than one time. White wedding dresses didn’t become mainstream in the United States until after World War 2. 

Bridal Bouquet

The bridal bouquet has a longstanding tradition in world history. Ancient Roman brides wore garlands of flowers to symbolize fertility, prosperity, and joy in their new life. Then during the middle ages, they carried fragrant herbs to ward off evil spirits and bad luck. They didn’t smell good either! Queen Victoria, again, began the modern tradition that we have today carrying a bouquet of meaningful or favorite flowers. Who knew she was such a trend setter?!? 

Wedding Cake Cutting & Feeding

This tradition is from Victorian times (Think Queen Victoria!). Originally, the bride cut the cake herself and it symbolized the first task of her marriage. As time went by, the groom began to participate so that it could symbolize their first task completed together as husband and wife. They fed each other a piece of cake to symbolize their intention to provide for one another throughout their marriage. 

Big Party

In Ancient Israel, the wedding reception lasted for seven days! It was a very big deal. The bride and groom consummated their marriage in a tent with all their guests waiting outside the door! Then, they partied hard for seven days celebrating with friends and family. 

Garter & Bouquet Toss

A garter was originally a functional accessory that held up a woman’s stockings. So as the bride & groom left the party to consummate the marriage, they tossed the bouquet and garter to their guests as a way of sharing their good fortune. Some traditions say that guests would try to tear a piece of the bride’s dress as a way of taking some of her good luck, so she found things to throw at them to keep them away. Weird, right?

We’ll, for better or worse, now you know where these traditions came from. You can make choices for your wedding based on these classic traditions or you can start your own. Whatever you decide to do, remember that you’ll need just the right music to go along with it. Be sure to let your DJ know what you’re planning to do so that he or she is ready to make it extra special for you. If you don’t have a DJ, be sure to check out the availability at Turn Up Columbus. We’d love to work with you to create an epic wedding day!