Superstitions Behind Bridesmaids: Ancient Wedding Traditions Explained

The tradition of having bridesmaids at a wedding is believed to have originated in ancient Rome, where bridesmaids—wearing dresses and veils—were used as a line of defence to trick evil spirits and envious suitors, thus protecting the bride. Bridesmaids were also used to ward off demons, curses, and hexes—basically, any jealous forces that would steal the bride's happiness. In modern times, the bridesmaid party is all about support, friendship, and honouring the betrothed couple.

Bridesmaids were used to trick evil spirits and jealous suitors

In ancient times, it was also believed that spirits and demons could enter a bride through the soles of her feet after she left the church, so bridesmaids were also a line of defence against this. In addition to wearing veils, the bridesmaids would often wear dresses and veils similar to the bride's, acting as doppelgangers to confuse any evil spirits.

Nowadays, the bridesmaid party is more about support and friendship, but its superstitious origins date back to ancient Rome.

Bridesmaids wore veils to redirect spirits

Bridesmaids wore veils to redirect evil spirits away from the bride. This superstition dates back to ancient Greece and Rome, where it was believed that blissful brides attracted evil spirits. The veil was used to cover the bride's face during the wedding ceremony to disguise her from these spirits.

In ancient Rome, bridesmaids dressed in similar outfits to the bride, including veils, to act as decoys and further protect the bride from evil spirits. The belief was that these spirits would kidnap the bride on her wedding day. The bridesmaids' dresses and veils were often brightly coloured, and in the case of the Romans, flame-coloured, to provide extra protection.

The veil also served a different purpose in the case of arranged marriages. It was used to prevent the groom from seeing the bride's face until the final moments of the ceremony. This was to ensure that the groom could not back out of the marriage based on the bride's appearance.

Over time, the meaning behind the veil evolved as weddings became more religious. The veil came to symbolise modesty and obedience, with the white veil representing chastity. In many religions, it is seen as a symbol of reverence for women to cover their heads.

Today, bridesmaids no longer wear veils but instead complement the bride's unique style, ensuring she stands out. Their primary purpose now is to support the bride and share in the joy of her special day.

Bridesmaids wore veils to hide from the groom

The tradition of bridesmaids wearing veils to hide from the groom can be traced back to ancient Greece and Rome, where it was believed that a bride's face should be covered before she reached the altar to protect her and her future marriage from evil spirits. The veil was often brightly coloured, and sometimes even flame-coloured, to provide extra protection.

In the case of arranged marriages, the veil also served to shield the bride's face from the groom, ensuring that he would not see her until the ceremony when it was too late to back out of the transaction. This was particularly important to the bride's father, who wanted to ensure the groom would go through with the marriage regardless of the bride's identity or appearance.

In some cultures and religions, the veil also came to symbolise modesty and obedience. In many religions, it is seen as a symbol of reverence for women to cover their heads. When white wedding dresses were worn to symbolise chastity, the white veil followed suit.

Today, bridesmaids are included in weddings as friends and family members for support, but their presence can also be traced back to ancient Rome, where they served as a line of defence to trick evil spirits and envious suitors and protect the bride.

Bridesmaids bring good luck

The bridesmaids' veils were also used to disguise the bridal party, creating multiple doppelgangers to confuse spirits and unwanted suitors. This practice was especially important during the perilous walk down the aisle to the altar.

In addition to protecting the bride, bridesmaids also served as a symbol of support and friendship. Today, while the focus has shifted from superstition to celebration, the role of bridesmaids remains essential in modern weddings. They provide emotional and practical support to the bride, enhancing the joy and excitement of the occasion.

So, if you're planning your big day, don't forget to include your bridesmaids! They'll bring good luck and make your wedding even more memorable.

Bridesmaids can be male

The role of bridesmaids has evolved over time. In ancient Rome, bridesmaids—clad in dresses and veils—were used as a line of defence to trick evil spirits and envious suitors and protect the bride. Today, bridesmaids are included in the wedding party as friends and family members for support.

While the terms "bridesmaid" and "groomsman" have gendered associations, there are no rules that dictate that a wedding party must be separated by gender. It is becoming increasingly common for brides to have a "bridesman" or "man of honour" in their wedding party. A "bridesman" is simply a male who is chosen to be one of the bride's bridesmaids. If your best friend is a guy, choose to have him as a "bridesman" instead of just choosing your best female friends. It is important to choose based on who has been a loyal friend, not just who will look good in a dress.

A male bridesmaid is expected to assist the bride in the planning process, attend showers and parties, and stand beside her on the big day. He can also help with heavy lifting during wedding set-up and breakdown, provide a male perspective, and act as a bodyguard during the bachelorette party.

When it comes to attire, the key is to complement the bridesmaid dresses. The bridesman can either stand out from the groomsmen or match them. Many bridesmen wear the same suit as the groomsmen but choose a unique tie, vest, or boutonniere. Alternatively, he could wear a different-coloured suit. The easiest way to coordinate is through matching neckties or bowties.

Frequently asked questions