What do you think of when you hear the word “Wedding?” Probably something quite similar to what most other people are thinking – a beautiful bride in white, tossing a lovely bouquet and garter, a scrumptious towering cake . . .

So many things are specifically associated with weddings – most of which are based on centuries-old traditions and symbolism. However, traditions have to start somewhere. There had to be a first time that any of these practices took place, and superstition or practicality was usually the underlying reason.

Some traditions were originated to keep away the evil spirits:

Bridal bouquet

Originally made of herbs, such as thyme and garlic, not flowers. The herbs were chosen for their strong smell, with the intent to frighten away evil spirits.

Bridesmaids dressing alike

The bride and her ‘maids used to dress similarly to confuse the evil spirits. Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue - originated in England to ward off the evil spirits. Also, honking car horns after a wedding, or tying tin cans to the back of the get-away car were done as the noise scared off the evil spirits.
Other traditions were symbols of fertility:

The wedding cake

During the days of the Roman Empire, wheat or barley cakes (more like loaves) were broken over the head of the new bride by her groom symbolizing her fertility.

Giving a favor of Italian confetti, or candy-covered almonds

These used to be tossed at the couple representing fertility and good luck.

Tossing rice

Originated with the ancient Hindus and Chinese to bestow fertility upon the bride and groom, as rice is the symbol of fruitfulness and prosperity in these cultures.
Some traditions remain with a specific culture, rather than having become the norm for American weddings:

Indian

The Redenga is an exchange of flower garlands during the ceremony which symbolizes the couple’s acceptance of each other.

Egyptian

Women pinch the bride for good luck.

Irish

Giving a bell as a gift - the chime of bells is thought to keep evil spirits away, and also remind a couple of their wedding vows.

Swedish

The bride puts a silver coin from her father and a gold coin from her mother in each shoe to ensure that she’ll never do without.

Other traditions stem from practicality to serve a specific purpose rather than being based on superstition. Although the practical purpose no longer holds true for todays society, these traditions hold fast:

Why there are there two envelopes with the invitation:

Invitations used to be hand delivered by messenger. In transport, the outer envelope would get dirty. When the messenger arrived at the destination, he would discard the outer, soiled envelope, and present the invitation to the recipient in just the inner, clean envelope.

Why couples kiss at the end of their ceremony:

While many cultures share the more romantic belief that the couple exchanged spirits with their breath and part of their souls were exchanged as they kiss, this tradition actually originated with the Romans who used a kiss to seal a binding contract.

Why there is a garter toss:

Prior to the 14th century, it was believed that possessing part of the brides garments brought good luck, so people actually tried to tear off pieces of her clothing. The tradition of a “garter toss” started in the 14th century after brides were tired of having to fight off people trying to tear at her clothing.

Why brides wear white:

Contrary to popular belief, this has nothing to do with purity or virginity. The white wedding gown started with Queen Victoria in 1840. She wanted a dress that was specially for her wedding day, rather than wear one of her “Sunday Best” as was common practice at the time. Her of a white satin and lace gown remains the preferred choice of modern brides. If a white gown was good enough for a queen…