HONEYMOON The term “honeymoon” comes from ancient Germanic weddings, where the newly married couple would drink mead (honey wine) for thirty days after their wedding, until the next full moon, hence the name “honey moon.” It was also tradition for the bride and groom to leave immediately following the wedding reception.
FLOWERS Originally, bridal wreaths and bouquets were made of herbs which had meaningful significance for the couple’s future. It was believed that herbs, especially garlic, had the power to cast off evil spirits. If a bride carried sage, she became wise; if she carried dill, she became lusty. Flower girls carried sheaves of wheat, a symbol of growth, fertility, and renewal. Eventually,
flowers
replaced
herbs and assumed meanings all their own. Orange blossoms, for example, bring happiness and fertility, ivy represents fidelity, and lilies signify purity.
54 | I S S U E No. 6