Why Do Brides Toss Bouquets, Anyway?
September 28, 2023
source: Revivalist
Weddings, am I right? The flowers, the vows, and of course, the classic bouquet toss. It’s a moment that’s as common as saying “I do” but can also be a bit weird and cringy for some. So, have you ever wondered how this tradition began, and why catching that bouquet is seen as a sign of good luck and fortune? Well, grab a seat and let’s dive into the fascinating history of the wedding bouquet toss!
Picture this: a bride, dressed in all her glory, surrounded by eager guests. Back in the day, it was thought to be very good luck to touch the bride herself. This often caused some serious discomfort and invasion of privacy for the bride, because, well, guests would typically stand around her like vultures, trying to rip her gown off! Yikes, right? Imagine trying to enjoy your special day with all that chaos!
So, in a clever move to deter those overzealous guests, brides started tossing their bouquets into the crowds. It was like a magician’s sleight of hand. The bouquet would soar through the air, and the guests would go chasing after it, leaving the bride and her husband-to-be free to make a break for it to their bridal chamber. Talk about a great escape!
Now, you might be wondering, what’s the deal with the groom? Well, he had a role too. Once the newlyweds were safely inside their chamber, the groom would open the door and toss out the garter. It was like a romantic version of catch, with a dash of good luck thrown in.
But why toss the bouquet and garter, of all things? Well, both of these items were considered symbols of fertility and good fortune. It was believed that whoever caught the bouquet would be the next in line to tie the knot, while the lucky garter catcher would enjoy good fortune in matters of love and romance. So, you see, it wasn’t just about having a bit of fun; it was about passing on good luck to the guests.
Fast forward to modern times, and the bouquet toss has taken on a life of its own. While it still carries the essence of its historical roots, it’s become a playful and lighthearted tradition at weddings. The bride flings her bouquet into a sea of eager guests, and the scramble to catch it ensues. It’s all in good fun, and the lucky catcher gets to take home a beautiful bouquet as a souvenir of the day.
But here’s where things get even more interesting. Some forward-thinking brides have decided to break away from tradition and include men in the bouquet toss. Yep, you heard that right! It’s not just for the ladies anymore. This twist adds an extra layer of excitement and inclusivity to the tradition. So, if you’re at a wedding where this happens, guys, get ready to channel your inner catcher!
In recent years, the bouquet toss has evolved into a moment of laughter and camaraderie. It’s no longer just about predicting who will be the next to wed but about celebrating love, friendships, and the joyous atmosphere of a wedding. Plus, let’s face it, watching Aunt Mildred dive for the bouquet is always good for a chuckle.
So, the next time you find yourself at a wedding, and the bouquet toss is about to happen, you’ll know that it’s not just a random tradition. It’s a piece of history that started as a clever distraction, a way for brides to escape the grabby hands of their guests. It’s a symbol of luck, love, and the joy of celebrating a couple’s journey into wedded bliss. And who knows, you might just be the lucky one to catch that bouquet and take home a bit of that good fortune for yourself. Cheers to love, laughter, and the quirky traditions that make weddings unforgettable!
