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Bouquets and Brides

The Island

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April 30, 2025

Let's be honest: no wedding feels quite complete without a bride clutching a lovely bundle of blooms.

Bouquets and Brides

From elegant white roses to vibrant wildflower arrangements, the bridal bouquet is as iconic as the dress itself. But have you ever paused — perhaps between sips of champagne — and wondered where this charming tradition began? Believe it or not, the bridal bouquet has a history far richer (and stranger) than you might expect.

Before the days of Pinterest-worthy floral designs and colour-coordinated weddings, bouquets weren’t so much about beauty as they were about practicality and superstition. In ancient Egypt, brides carried bundles of aromatic herbs and spices — think garlic, dill, and cinnamon — believed to ward off evil spirits and bad luck. The strong smells weren't just decorative; they were thought to offer spiritual protection as the bride crossed the threshold into married life.

The Greeks and Romans followed suit, with brides holding herbs symbolising fertility, fidelity, and prosperity. In those times, a bouquet wasn’t just an accessory — it was a lucky charm, perfume, and mystical shield all in one.

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