Veil, Candles, And Cord: The Bridesmaid's Role Explained

The veil, cord, and candle are integral parts of Filipino weddings, symbolizing love, unity, and commitment. The candle ceremony involves three candles: a large central candle and two smaller ones, which the couple and their sponsors light to symbolize their separate lives before marriage. The couple then lights the central candle, representing their unity. The veil, or mantilla, symbolizes the couple's union and protective love, as it is draped over them by the veil sponsors. Finally, the cord, or lazo or yugal, is placed over the couple in a figure-eight shape, symbolizing their unbreakable bond. While traditionally performed by secondary sponsors, these rituals can also be adapted for non-religious ceremonies and performed by bridesmaids.

Bridesmaids wearing veils was a thing in the 40s, 50s, 60s, and 70s

Bridesmaids wearing veils was indeed a trend in the 1940s, 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s. This trend can be traced back to the medieval belief that having the bride and bridesmaids in identical attire would confuse and distract evil spirits. Another reason for this practice was the requirement for women to cover their heads in church, which was particularly common in Catholic weddings.

Vintage photos from the 1940s and 1950s often depict bridesmaids wearing veils that matched the bride's, with some veils reaching ankle length. In the 1950s, bridesmaids' veils were typically short, chin-length, and colour-coordinated with their dresses. For instance, at a 1950s Drexal family wedding, the bridesmaids wore ankle-length veils, while at another wedding, the bridesmaids wore olive green hats with bird cage veils.

In the 1960s, the trend continued, with bridesmaids wearing veils in various styles. For instance, at a 1969 wedding, the bridesmaids wore little olive green hats with bird cage veils, while at another wedding, the flower girl wore a short veil that matched her dress.

In the 1970s, the trend evolved, with bridesmaids wearing different styles of veils and hats. For example, at one wedding, each bridesmaid wore a different-coloured outfit with a floppy hat, while at another wedding, the bridesmaids wore large, floppy beach-style hats that matched their dresses.

Bridesmaids wearing veils was a tradition to distract evil spirits from the bride

In ancient Rome, brides wore veils, then called "flammeum", to protect themselves from evil spirits. The saffron colour of the veil was meant to symbolise Vesta, the goddess of hearth and home, and a protector of life. The veil was also used to disguise the bride from her husband, who was not supposed to see his wife until after they were married. The act of unveiling the bride symbolised that ownership had changed from her father to her husband.

Over time, the veil became a way to disguise brides from evil spirits, who were believed to be attracted to happy brides and try to kidnap them on their wedding day. Bridesmaids dressed identically to the bride, to act as decoys and protect the bride from these spirits.

In modern times, the veil is a nod to the bride's virginity and symbolises the transfer of the bride from her paternal family to her new family. It is also sometimes worn as a beautiful accent.

Bridesmaids wearing veils is not trendy anymore

The practice of bridesmaids wearing veils originates from the Medieval belief that evil spirits would be confused if the bride and her bridesmaids looked identical. Another origin of the veil comes from European societies, where girls wore their hair down, and only when they became married women, they would wear their hair in a more modest and practical style. Thus, the veil served as a transitional object between girlhood and womanhood.

In Filipino weddings, the veil is an important part of the ceremony, but it is placed over the couple, not the bridesmaids. The veil, or "mantilla", symbolizes the profound union and protective love between the couple. It represents their commitment to protect and support each other as they face life's challenges together.

Today, bridesmaids' veils have been replaced by other hair accessories such as tiaras, headbands, hair bows, and fascinators. These alternatives add elegance and charm to the bridal party's ensemble while allowing each person to express their unique style. Ultimately, it is up to the bride to decide what her bridesmaids will wear, but veils for bridesmaids are no longer fashionable.

Bridesmaids can gift candles to the bride

Bridesmaids can definitely gift candles to the bride, and this is a thoughtful idea that ties in with Filipino wedding traditions.

In Filipino weddings, candles are often lit by the couple and their sponsors, symbolising the merging of their lives and the light of their love and faith. The candles also represent the presence of God in the union, with the central candle being Christ himself. This is a beautiful and emotional moment in the ceremony.

If the bridesmaids gift candles to the bride, they can be personalised with the couple's names, wedding date, or other meaningful details. The candles can be part of a set, with a central candle and two smaller ones, which the couple can light from their own individual candles.

The bridesmaids' gift of candles will be even more special if the bride is of Filipino heritage and plans to incorporate this tradition into her wedding ceremony. The candles can be chosen to match the wedding's colour scheme or theme, perhaps with modern or unconventional styles.

Including the candle ceremony in the wedding is a wonderful way to honour the bride's heritage and add a unique, memorable touch to the celebration.

Bridesmaids can receive candles as proposal gifts

Bridesmaids play a significant role in weddings, and it's only fitting to show your appreciation with thoughtful proposal gifts. Candles are an excellent option, and here are some reasons why:

Symbolism of Light and Unity

Candles are often associated with light and warmth, making them a perfect symbol of the love, faith, and unity that bridesmaids bring to the wedding. The lighting of candles can represent the merging of the couple's lives, creating a new journey together.

Personalization

Candles can be easily personalized with special messages, the bridesmaid's name, or even the wedding date. This adds a unique and heartfelt touch to the gift, making it more meaningful for the recipient.

Scented Candles Offer Relaxation

Scented candles provide an opportunity for relaxation and self-care. With calming fragrances like lavender, rose, or fig tree, you can create a soothing atmosphere for your bridesmaids to unwind and de-stress.

Long-Lasting Memories

Candles have a lasting impact, both visually and aromatically. Each time your bridesmaid lights the candle, they will be reminded of the special bond you share and the joy of your wedding day.

Versatility

Candles come in various sizes, colours, and designs, allowing you to choose or customize them to match your wedding theme or the bridesmaid's preferences. They can also be paired with other gifts, like cosmetic bags or jewellery, to create a comprehensive proposal package.

Affordability

Candles are an affordable option when considering proposal gifts for your bridesmaids. You can find a wide range of candles at different price points, ensuring that you can show your appreciation without breaking the bank.

In conclusion, candles are a wonderful way to propose to your bridesmaids and make them feel valued. They offer symbolism, personalisation, and a lasting memory of your special day. So, go ahead and light up their lives with this thoughtful gift idea!

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