From the grand wedding cake to the first kiss, some wedding traditions have stood the test of time throughout the years. However, the history behind them is incredibly insightful and unexpected.
Did you know that wedding dresses typically used to be red? Or that wedding cake used to be made of bread? In this blog, our wedding venue near Beverly lists seven wedding traditions and the history behind them.
1. The white wedding dress
Did you know that before the mid-1800s, brides wore red? It wasn’t until around 1840 that wearing white to wed your beloved became popular! Queen Victoria started the trend when she wed Prince Albert in a gown that symbolised wealth.
2. The wedding cake
Originally wedding cakes were made of wheat to symbolise prosperity, which the groom would sprinkle over the bride’s head for good luck. Guests would then eat the crumbs to share in the success. Similarly, eating the modern wedding cake today in a neater fashion is said to bring good fortune.
3. “Tying the knot”
This phrase is commonly used to refer to the marriage ceremony, associated with an unbreakable vow. The phrase actually comes from an ancient Celtic ritual of handfasting, where knots of cloth were tied around the couple’s hand. This symbolises them being ‘bound’ together in matrimony.
4. Something “old, new, borrowed and blue”
This tradition dates back from the Victorian era, where good fortune is said to come to those that wear everything mentioned. “Something old” is worn to connect the bride to her past and family, and “something new” represents her life to come with her husband. “Something borrowed” is commonly an item from someone already married (to pass on the good luck) and “something blue” conveys loyalty.
5. Throwing rice
In more recent years, this tradition has been swapped for confetti, flower petals and even bubbles. Rice was used to symbolise rain, which showered the bride and groom with fortune and prosperity directly after their ceremony. Quite the send-off!
6. The ring bearer
Responsible for carrying the couple’s wedding rings down the aisle, the ring bearer has a very important job indeed. A small child typically takes on this role, to reflect the future and new beginnings. Using a pillow to carry the rings symbolises that the bride and groom’s dreams will come true.
7. The first kiss
Although this is one of the more elegant aspects of the wedding ceremony, it has not always been a romantic gesture. In ancient Rome, this was simply used to seal the wedding agreement. However, in Catholic ceremonies, it used to be customary for the priest to give a “kiss of peace” to the groom. This would then be passed on to the bride, to bless the marriage.
Whatever you have in mind for your wedding, the Carlton Tipi is a blank canvas for you to dress to your heart’s desires. Get in touch with us today to secure your 2022 wedding.
