The History of the Bridal Bouquet

Bride with her beautiful bridal bouquet

When a bride walks down the aisle, all eyes are on her—her dress, her smile, and of course, the bouquet in her hands. But have you ever wondered where this beautiful tradition began? The bridal bouquet is more than just a pretty accessory; it has a long and fascinating history that spans centuries and cultures.

Ancient Beginnings

The earliest versions of bridal bouquets weren’t made of flowers at all. In ancient Greece and Rome, brides carried bunches of herbs and spices—think garlic, dill, and rosemary—to ward off evil spirits and bring fertility and good fortune. These fragrant bundles were more about protection and symbolism than decoration.

The Middle Ages: Fragrance and Folklore

During medieval times, personal hygiene was a little... less frequent. Brides would carry strong-smelling herbs and flowers like lavender and sage to mask any unpleasant odors. It was also believed that certain flowers could protect the bride from bad luck and ill-willed spirits.

The Victorian Influence

The bridal bouquet as we know it really blossomed in the Victorian era. This was the age of "floriography"—the language of flowers. Every bloom had a meaning: orange blossoms for purity, ivy for fidelity, and roses for love. Queen Victoria herself carried a bouquet of snowdrops at her wedding to Prince Albert, sparking a trend that quickly caught on.

Modern Bouquets: A Personal Statement

Today, bridal bouquets are as unique as the bride herself. Some choose flowers that match their wedding colours, others pick blooms that hold personal meaning—perhaps the same flower their grandmother carried, or a favourite from their childhood garden.

Sustainability and seasonality are also becoming more important. Many brides now opt for locally grown, in-season flowers or even dried arrangements for a modern twist on an age-old tradition.

A Tradition That Keeps Growing

From protective herbs to personalized masterpieces, the bridal bouquet has come a long way. It remains a beautiful symbol of love, tradition, and self-expression. And as florists, we feel honoured every time we get to be a part of that story—helping each bride carry something meaningful down the aisle.

Bridal bouquet