If you’ve been to a few weddings then you’ve probably noticed a few similarities between them all. That’s because there are certain wedding traditions that have made it through the test of time. There are some that only those involved know and others that guests will notice or even play a role in. In this blog, we will look at 8 wedding traditions.
The family of the bride pays.
It’s a tradition that the family of the bride pays for a majority of or the entirety of the wedding day event. This is rooted in an old custom of the parents of the bride giving a dowry to the groom for “the burden” of a bride.
The dress
It’s a staple of weddings that has been ingrained in our minds. Popular shows like Say Yes To The Dress and others cement the value of the bride's dress. The color and style of the dress usually represent a religious or cultural significance. In fact, many cultures and religions have their own wedding traditions.
The first dance
This tradition can be traced all the way back to 17th-century Europe. It's the first time the newlyweds dance with each other. It symbolizes the love and unity of the new bond.
Throwing rice
The throwing of rice is a well-known tradition that has even been imitated and poked fun at in sitcoms. Throwing rice is a symbolic gesture to wish the happy couple a life of prosperity and fruitfulness (many consider that to mean children). Over the years the rice toss has been replaced with people tossing seeds, flowers, and more. Here at the Bushnell Event Center, this tradition has been replaced with sparklers.
The best man
This role is pivotal. The best man is the Grooms right-hand man. The best man is there to support and assist the Groom in any way before and during the ceremony. The best man commands the groomsmen and plans the bachelor party. He is also tasked with giving a speech.
The garter toss
This tradition is similar to the flower toss that the bride performs. Except for the groom, now husband, must remove his new bride's garter from her leg and toss it to a crow of bachelors. Whoever catches it is next in line to tie the know!
Bridal showers
These fun events are when the bride gets together with friends and family to celebrate her upcoming wedding. Usually, the bride-to-be and her guests will play games, open gifts, and socialize before her big day.
Old, new, borrowed, and blue
Something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue. This rhyme is a list of things that are considered must-haves for brides to incorporate into their dress.