top of page

Wedding Tradition Origins

Weddings are full of beautiful customs and timeless traditions, but have you ever wondered where these traditions come from? Many of the wedding traditions we know and love today have been passed down for centuries, and while some may seem a little quirky, each one has its own unique history.


From the white wedding dress to the bridal bouquet toss, let's dive into the fascinating origins of some of the most popular wedding traditions still cherished by couples today.


The Wedding Ring

The tradition of exchanging wedding rings dates back to ancient Egypt, where couples exchanged rings made of hemp or reeds as a symbol of eternity. The circle, with no beginning or end, was seen as the perfect shape to represent eternal love.


The custom of wearing the wedding ring on the fourth finger of the left hand originated from the ancient Romans, who believed that the "vena amoris" (vein of love) ran directly from this finger to the heart. Though the anatomy has been debunked, the tradition continues.


Fun fact: Many cultures have their own unique variations on this tradition. In some European countries, the wedding ring is worn on the right hand instead of the left.

Wedding Rings. Photography by Christy Tyler Photography. Wedding Planning by Wedicity.

Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue

The phrase “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue” has been a staple in weddings for centuries. It originated in Victorian England as a way to bring good luck to the bride and groom.


Each item carries a specific meaning:

  • Something old represents the bride’s past and continuity.

  • Something new symbolizes optimism for the future.

  • Something borrowed is a token of borrowed happiness from a happily married couple.

  • Something blue stands for purity, love, and fidelity.


In some cultures, a sixpence in the bride’s shoe is added for good fortune and prosperity.


Borrowed Pearls. Old New Borrowed Blue. Photography by DeAnda Photography. Wedding Planning by Wedicity.

The White Wedding Dress

The iconic white wedding dress has become a symbol of purity and tradition, but it wasn't always the go-to choice for brides. In fact, for centuries, brides simply wore their best dress, regardless of its color.


The trend of wearing white was popularized by Queen Victoria, who wore a stunning white gown when she married Prince Albert in 1840. Before that, blue was actually considered the color of purity. However, Victoria's choice made waves in the fashion world, and soon, brides everywhere began choosing white to symbolize purity and innocence.


Fun fact: In some cultures, brides wear red instead of white. For example, in traditional Indian weddings, red is considered auspicious and symbolizes prosperity and fertility.


First Look at the London House Hotel Chicago. Wedding Planning by Wedicity. Photography by Elizabeth Nord Photography.

The Bridal Bouquet

Carrying a bridal bouquet is another tradition with interesting origins. In ancient times, brides carried bouquets of herbs, garlic, and grains to ward off evil spirits and bad luck. Eventually, this evolved into the custom of carrying flowers, which symbolize beauty, fertility, and new beginnings.


Different flowers carry different meanings: roses symbolize love, lilies represent purity, and ivy is said to signify fidelity. Modern brides often choose their bouquets based on personal taste and style, but the ancient symbolism still lingers.


Fun fact: Tossing the bridal bouquet to a group of single women dates back to medieval England, where it was believed that catching a piece of the bride's clothing or flowers would bring good luck and possibly predict who would marry next.


Wine Country Wedding Bouquet by Seascape Floral Design. Eden Strader Photography. Wedicity Wedding Day Detailing - Wedding Planner

The Wedding Cake

Today, the wedding cake is often the centerpiece of the reception, but this sweet tradition has ancient roots. In ancient Rome, weddings involved the breaking of bread over the bride’s head to symbolize fertility and good fortune. In medieval England, the wedding cake evolved into a tower of small spiced buns that were stacked high, and the bride and groom would try to kiss over the stack without knocking it over—a sign of prosperity if they succeeded!


The tiered cake as we know it today became popular in the 19th century, thanks to Queen Victoria’s wedding cake, which set a trend for multi-layered cakes decorated with white icing.


Pro tip: Want to add a twist to this tradition? Some couples are choosing to include groom's cakes, a fun way to personalize the cake tradition even further.


ECBG Cake Studio Cake Cutting at Chicago Illuminating Company. Photography by Sally O'Donnell and Wedding Planning by Wedicity Wedding Day Detailing

Tossing Rice or Confetti

The tradition of throwing rice or confetti as the couple leaves the ceremony is another ancient custom. In ancient Rome and Egypt, guests would toss seeds or grains to symbolize fertility and prosperity for the newlyweds. Over time, rice became the most common material to toss, as it was seen as a symbol of life and abundance.


Today, many couples opt for biodegradable confetti, flower petals, or even sparklers as a modern and eco-friendly take on this tradition.


Pro tip: If you're worried about cleanup or environmental impact, consider using lavender buds or birdseed, which are safe for wildlife and just as festive!


Eco-Confetti at Chicago Christmas Themed Wedding by City Savvy Imaging & Wedicity Wedding Planning

The First Dance

The first dance as husband and wife is a beloved wedding tradition that traces its roots back to European aristocracy. In the past, the bride and groom were expected to lead the way, as the first dance marked the official beginning of the reception and was often a waltz.


Today, the first dance is still a special moment for the newlyweds, but the music and dance style are entirely up to the couple. From slow romantic ballads to choreographed routines, the first dance remains a timeless tradition that kicks off the celebration.


Final Thoughts: Embracing Tradition or Making It Your Own

Whether you choose to embrace these age-old wedding traditions or put your own modern twist on them, understanding the origins behind each custom can add a deeper level of meaning to your special day. Traditions are a beautiful way to connect with history and symbolize the love and commitment you’re making to your partner.


At the end of the day, your wedding should reflect who you are as a couple, whether that means sticking to tradition or blazing your own trail. Here’s to celebrating love—your way!


Photography (in order as shown)

Comments


Commenting has been turned off.
bottom of page