Tossing the Bouquet

This tradition dates back to ancient England. It was thought that on her wedding day, the bride was filled with good luck. After the ceremony, people would come and tear at her clothes to grab a piece of fabric so that some of her good luck would be shared with them. To prevent this, a bride would toss out her bouquet instead so that she and her husband could slip away without her dress being torn or her getting mauled.

In modern day, tossing the bouquet also means that the bride is sharing her good luck in finding a husband and that is why it is believed that the single woman who catches the bouquet will be the next to wed.

Tossing Rose Petals

Rose petals are tossed at the bride’s feet as a symbol of fertility and to repel evil spirits from the ground below her feet who might try to rise up and snatch the bride and drag her to hell.

Bridal Bouquet

Before flowers became popular, bouquets were made of herbs and spices. There are several theories as to why this was carried. Some historians suggest that these strong-smelling plants were carried to ward off evil spirits.

Others believe that they were meant to wish the couple a bountiful harvest. Further theories include that they were meant to make the bride smell pleasant since regular bathing was not practiced in ancient times and fragrant oils (perfume) was only worn by the very rich.

We are planning to write about other wedding traditions. If you have some suggestions of traditions that you would like to learn more about, please add a comment below and we will research it. In the meanwhile, feel free to browse our bridal tips.