A bridal bouquet is a stunning accessory, the focal point of the day’s decor, and one of the first things guests see when they walk into a wedding. It’s also a symbol of the bride’s personality and taste. For many brides, choosing the right bouquet is a crucial part of their wedding planning process. In this article, we’ll explain what the word bridal means and how it relates to the bride, her gown, the party, and other important wedding events.
Bridal is a noun that refers to anything related to a bride or a wedding. It is often paired with nouns such as bridal gown, bridal shower, or bridal party to denote the group of people that will be accompanying the bride down the aisle.
A wedding shower, or sometimes referred to as a bachelorette party, is a pre-wedding celebration held for the soon-to-be-married woman by friends and family members. Traditionally, the bride’s maid of honor and/or her matron of honor plan these parties. Often, only women attend these gatherings, although men can be invited to Jack and Jill wedding showers.
Historically, a bride’s shower was a time for her friends and family to celebrate her on the cusp of marriage by gifting her with items and keepsakes that she will use regularly alongside her husband. This was a time to bond with her closest female friends, and it also provided an opportunity for the bride to receive emotional support from women who have been by her side throughout every chapter of her life.
Today, most modern bridal showers are hosted by the bride’s close friends or her bridesmaids. However, close relatives and the groom’s friends are viable host options as well. Depending on the bride’s preference, these parties can be held at home or in restaurants or community venues. Food is often served and games or activities are commonly included.
Some couples may choose to include their story in the “Our Story” section of their website. This is a great way to share how they met and how the proposal happened, says Pinney. The couple can also highlight fun facts about their relationship, such as their favorite dates and memories together.
The final decision on which flowers will be in a bridal bouquet typically comes down to the bride’s preference and what she envisions herself walking down the aisle holding. For example, some brides opt for a round arrangement of orchids to match her dress’s shape and color. Others choose a more natural, hand-tied arrangement that will complement a rustic wedding or alfresco garden ceremony.
As for the bridal veil, by the 1930s, style trends shifted toward softer silhouettes and tulle replaced lace as a fashionable fabric. As a result, most brides blended their family’s lace veils with tulle to maintain the tradition and also add a touch of her own personal style. A bride’s budget can also be a factor in deciding which flowers to select for her big day. Generally, premium blooms like orchids are more expensive, while roses and lilies are more affordable.