Wedding Wreaths

Wreaths have a long history as part of important celebrations. In general, wreaths have been steeped in symbolism from those used at the first Olympics and into the Christmas wreaths. There is no question that the flowers, greenery and other adornments of a wedding wreath are gorgeous and add beauty to the wedding festivities. Wedding wreaths bring a creative quality to the celebration. Using fresh or silk flowers can add another dash of color to the event.

Although Laurel Wreaths can be traced back to Greek mythology and the ancient Roman Olympic Games, they can still be found in weddings in today's world. Frequently used to decorate for a bridal shower or the wedding ceremony, wedding wreaths add their own unique touch. These wreaths can also be worn by the flower girl or other members of the wedding party.

The use of the wreath will determine the type and color of the flowers. Stunning wedding wreaths can be purchased or handmade. While the flowers and adornments are spectacular, the deeper beauty comes from the symbolism of the wreath. You will find wedding wreaths in circular and heart shapes.

In ancient Greece, the brides wore a crown (wreath) made of flowers, herbs or garlic bulbs. The herbs and garlic were believed to have magical power that would repel evil spirits.

Another old wedding tradition was the flower ceremony. It is refreshing to know that it lives on, modified and updated, in our modern world. With the passing of time, we would expect some changes and differences. There may be some traditionalists who still practice the original ceremony. At the end of the ceremony, the minister presented an ivy wreath and explained the marriage and ivy connection. Ivy represents fidelity and marriage. Then the friends and family of bride and groom added flowers or sprigs of plants that had appropriate symbolic meaning related to marriage; for example, sprigs of rosemary or lavender represent remembrance and love. Of course, the circular shape of the wreath is symbolic of everlasting life.

For the creative bride to be, making wedding wreaths may be the perfect option. Select the shape and type of wreath form and decide on colors. Using good quality silk flowers can be just as beautiful as fresh flowers and the wreaths can be completed well in advance of the wedding. There are so many available adornments that the wreaths are sure to be unique. Add some lace or ribbon for a finished look and you have an exquisite wreath.

The great thing about creating your own wreaths is that you will have one more cherished memory of the wedding preparations. Wreaths can be used as pew decorations or can decorate the walls, doorways, arches, walkways or can be placed on tables as centerpieces with candles in the center of the wreath.

One of the most beautiful wreaths I have seen was decorated with seashells for a beach wedding. The possibilities are endless! For the budget conscious, this is also a great way to save some money.

Not only are these young flower girls adorable, they represent the connection between the bride’s youth and womanhood. Many times the flower girl wears a wreath on her head and carries a basket with flower petals.

Flower girls have been part of the wedding ceremony since Greek and Roman times. Those first flower girls scattered grain and herbs to represent fertility. The flower petals in baskets became popular during the Victorian Era.

When considering the role of the flower girl, there are several decisions to be made:

1) What will be tossed? Flower petals, leaves, confetti?

2) Can real flowers be used? You may need to use silk flower petals.

3) What is the size of the flower girl? If she is very small, a large basket may be an accident in the making.

4) Be sure you have a practice session with the little one and don’t expect perfection! You can be sure, she’ll be doing her very best.

After you have made your selections, relax and enjoy watching this little girl as she leads you down the aisle.

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