Symbolism of Wedding Flowers
In modern weddings, flowers are an irreplaceable part of the décor that defines the decorations and the color palette of the special day. Starting as early as the Elizabethan era, though, flowers were not just used for decoration; the flowers held special meanings for the bride and her union. The practice of constructing bridal arrangements based on their symbolic meanings continues today.
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Origin of Symbolism
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Due to the courtly strictures of the Elizabethan and Victorian eras in European history, the expression of emotions between two people was strictly restricted by etiquette. Thus, when Charles II introduced Flower Language in 1714, it quickly spread to all parts of societies. Carrying flowers allowed people to communicate without breaking society's strictures. Further, by carrying flowers upside down, people were able to demonstrate the opposite meaning usually contained by the flowers that they carried.
Early Flower Symbolism
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As early as the 16th century, wedding bouquets contained herbs in the bridal bouquet. At the reception that followed the wedding, the dill that was commonly included in the bouquet was eaten to embody the lust of the wedding night.
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Bridal Bouquet
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Traditionally carried by the bride, the bridal bouquet is one of the most important incorporations of flowers in a wedding. Representing love, sexuality and fertility, any flower can be used in the bouquet. Traditionally, brides are discouraged from carrying white and red flowers together because this color combination stands for imminent death or doom even though the individual flowers may stand for innocence and love. Thus, mixing flowers of different colors and meanings is traditionally the best.
Flowers for Love
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Flowers that stand for love include the orchid, rose, tulip, red carnation and lilac. Many of these flowers come in a variety of colors. For the clearest symbolism of love, choose the reddest variety available. Roses hold the traditionally symbolize that you love someone specifically. Carnations signal a deep, pure love. Further, the white lilac demonstrates a remembrance of the first love ever found in a relationship.
Other Meanings
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Love is an important part of every marriage's flower display, but this is not the only emotion that can be demonstrated. For instance, lilies stand for majesty, truth and honor. Other flowers, such as stephanotis and gardenias, represent joy and happiness. Irises can be included for faith and wisdom or freesias to stand for innocence. Violets and heliotropes also can be used to stand for faithfulness. Lastly, sunflowers can stand for adoration of your partner.
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References
- Photo Credit Bouquet image by Alison Bowden from Fotolia.com
