Whether you’re planning your own nuptials or are simply fascinated by all things wedding, there’s no shortage of things to learn about bridal. From the bride-groom’s and groomswomen’s counterparts—the maid of honor and matron of honour, respectively—to the flower girl, there are plenty of little-known tidbits you should know before your big day.
The word “bride” derives from the Old English brydealo, meaning “wedding ale.” In modern weddings, guests often toast the bride and groom with this drink.
A bridal shower is a celebration just for the bride’s friends and family members, while a bachelorette party is for the groom’s pals. Many couples choose to have both events to ensure all their loved ones are included in the festivities.
If you’re a blushing bride-to-be, you may want to consider booking a session with a professional photographer to get some practice before your big day. Not only will this allow you to relive the excitement of your special day, but it will also give you a chance to experiment with different poses and styles before the photographer snaps your official photos.
The father of the bride and mother of the groom play a major role in the wedding, typically giving speeches during the reception. They’re also there to escort their daughter down the aisle and participate in the father-daughter dance.
A groomsmen and groomswomen are the groom’s closest friends and relatives who help him out throughout his bachelor party and wedding planning process. On the wedding day itself, they’ll stand by his side during the ceremony and may take on more hands-on tasks, like ushering guests to their seats.
When it comes to wedding dresses, there are all kinds of silhouettes and cuts out there to fit every type of figure. If you have a petite frame, for example, look for dresses with a fitted bodice and high necklines that draw the eye upwards to balance your frame. If you have a straight or rectangular body shape, on the other hand, opt for gowns with looser skirts that will flow over your curves.
Designers this season debuted bridal styles that are bolder than ever before, including exposed boning, distressed skirts and asymmetrical necklines. These unconventional pieces are perfect for free-spirits and femme fatales alike, with brands like Cinq, Berta and Nardos delving into a new era of bridal fashion.
The oversized floral motifs that took center stage at bridal shows this season offer a fresh, modern twist on classic wedding dresses. This romantic trend is especially fitting for spring, where blossoms are in full bloom. Whether in embroidery, applique or a whole lot of beads, designers like Madeline and Badgley Mischka showcased florals that were anything but run-of-the-mill. The most dazzling of these gowns featured thousands of pearl and mother-of-pearl sequins, antique Carrickmacross lace from Queen Mary’s collection and even a 25-foot train. You can channel this bridal trend at your own wedding by pairing a botanical-inspired gown with a simple emerald-cut diamond necklace for the ultimate elegant ensemble.