Let’s dig into a tradition you probably witness at most of the Georgia wedding venues you attend: the bride tossing her bouquet.
Where did this tradition begin? And why? Don’t get me wrong, I love standing up in a crowd surrounded by my fierce, single-and-thriving counterparts and busting a move to Beyonce at every wedding I attend, but I’ve never really stopped to think about why it’s a “thing”. So let’s find out!
It all started in England a long, long time ago. Most of these traditions have somewhat “dark” histories, and this one is no exception. In fact, it’s a bit brutal! Before it was scaled down to an innocent toss of some flowers into a crowd, women would actually all gang up on the bride! The idea was that if you could rip a piece of her garment off for yourself (yes, a piece of that beloved wedding dress), some of her good fortune would rub off on you.
So picture it! An angry mob of single women coming at you to tear up your pretty dress on the very best day of your life. THE NERVE! In defense, a bride’s bouquet was her only weapon, and would often get tossed at the savage wedding guests.
Sounds like fun, doesn’t it?
Not so much.
Luckily, we live in a different time, and the tradition has become a bit more of a positive experience with the same general concept: to pass along the good fortune of love. But how can you spice this tradition up a bit?
The Fortune Toss
This adorable idea came from Martha Stewart, and we think it’s really fun! Instead of throwing your pretty flowers, have a bouquet of fortunes made. Include a bunch, and have them bound together with a ribbon. Before the toss, untie the ribbon, and the fortunes will separate so a bunch of lucky ladies can grab one and see what their future might hold! A really cute spin on an old classic.
Ladies Only Dance
Instead of throwing a bouquet, why not just have ALL the ladies in the place come out onto the dance floor to bust a move? Choose a fierce, strong song and be sure that some “luck, or maybe just some confidence or empowerment, will rub off on each other. Single, married, dating, whatever. This one is for ALL the women.
Anniversary Dance
Some couples are opting to do this instead entirely. Invite all couples onto the dance floor, and have them join you in a slow dance. As the song plays, the DJ can call out some milestones. Married for 5 years, 10 year, 15 years…and so on. At the end of the song, the last couple standing with the most years married under the belt get the bouquet as their prize (besides each other as forever companions).
Split the Bouquet
A really sentimental moment at the wedding could be had if you choose to do this! Call all of the most influential women in your life onto the dance floor. With a sentimental song playing, present each of them with a flower from your bouquet. Perhaps give them a little “thank you” speech explaining why you chose to share the bouquet with them. We promise tears will FLOW!
Just Don’t
Psssst, guess what?! You don’t have to do ANYTHING with your bouquet if you don’t want to! The best part? More time to dance with ALL of your guests and enjoy the night you planned for so long!