FiftyFlowers Blog

Wedding Traditions around the World

The world is a small place. Love has no boundaries. Together, these two statements create many international romances. International love can add excitement and diversity to a relationship, but it can also create several problems, especially when it comes to weddings. Many couples find themselves pondering which cultural traditions to incorporate into the ceremony. With numerous wedding traditions throughout the world, ceremonies are more and more multicultural in nature. Even couples from the same country often look to other cultures for unique ceremony ideas. Described below are a few wedding traditions rooted in Denmark, the Amish culture and the Jewish faith.

Denmark

The Gate of Honor is a custom that celebrate both the wedding and the couple’s silver anniversary. The Gate of Honor is a arch made from pine branches that is placed in front of the bride’s family’s house to symbolize the sacredness of the couple’s vows.

Adding a bit of fun to the reception, the groom disappears for a moment. It is during this time that all the male guests kiss the bride. No harm done, for later on the bride leaves so that all the female guests get their turn!

As is true throughout many parts of the world, the bride and groom cut the cake together, but in Denmark, all the guests are expected to eat a piece. Or bad luck will fall upon the couple!

The Amish Culture

The bride and groom make it a point to personally deliver the invitation to each guest.

The bride’s dress is new, but casual, similar to Sunday church attire.

The Jewish Faith

A Jewish couple wears wedding bands that do not feature stones, engraving or details. This way, the band is continuous, showing no beginning and no end.

The couple signs a marriage agreement that outlines their vows, expectations and duties. This ornate document is framed and displayed prominently in the couple’s home.

“Krenzl,” or crowning is a tradition that honors the mother of the bride. Upon her last daughter’s marriage, the mother is seated in the center of the room and crowned with a flower wreath. Her daughters dance around her to the sound of a traditional Yiddish song. This tradition has evolved over the years to include both the father and the mother when their last child – son or daughter – is married.

Do-It-Yourself Wedding Bouquet

The pomander bouquet is increasing in popularity, and not just amongst flower girls and junior bridesmaids. Pomander bouquets are balls of flowers suspended from a ribbon or twine and worn from the wrist. They are ideal for brides and bridesmaids who want to free up their hands during the ceremony. While this bouquet style may give a slightly more casual appearance to the ceremony, casual does not imply boring. In fact, the pomander can take on a wide variety of styles, with some of the most popular being a sphere of various flowers of a similar color, a ball comprised only of Bells of Ireland, and a square-like shape that adds a touch of Asian culture. This hanging bouquet can also be converted into a lovely decoration for the reception hall, in particular for the bridal party dinner table, where they can hang in front for everyone to see – and free up space on the table itself.

The required materials to create a pomander are minimal: a foam ball, material for the handle and tassel, a wire pick, floral adhesive or tape, and the flowers.

First, the foam must be saturated in water. Next, attach the handle. The two most popular materials for the bouquet handle are ribbon and bridal cord. Form a loop that is slightly bigger than the carrier’s hands. The handle should be short enough to keep it from banging into the dress and smashing the flowers, but long enough so that it sways as she walks. Attaching the handle is easy. Simply attach the two loose ends to wired picks, dip the pick into floral adhesive and insert the picks into the foam ball. You may also choose to add additional floral glue or tape for added support.

Depending on your taste, you may choose to add a tassel to the bottom of the bouquet. A tassel often adds formality and style as it sways with the bride’s steps. It is best to choose a tassel that matches the handle. The tassel is attached using the same technique used for attaching the handle. Be sure to attach it opposite from the handle’s location or it will hang crookedly. Some handles and tassels come as a single piece of fabric. In this case, use a pencil to poke a hole through the foam while it is dry, then slide the material through the hole and adjust it to the proper length. The handle and tassel can either be attached prior to or after inserting the flowers, making it convenient to assemble ahead of time.

Next are the flowers. Whether you choose to use entire blooms or cluster of small florets, both must be keep short in order to maintain the shape of the bouquet. It is the size of the foam ball that dictates the bouquet’s size, not the length of the stems. Use floral adhesive or wire picks if you find that certain flowers needed added support. One drawback of the pomander is that it cannot be placed in water after arranging. On the plus side, this bouquet is easy to assemble and can be done minutes before the wedding. Also, to keep the flowers hydrated, carefully add water to the inner foam ball. A light mist of water will also keep the petals looking fresh. Overall, the pomander is a trendy bouquet for brides craving something a bit different.

Flower Spotlight: Kangaroo Paw

With so many wedding styles available, a bride may be falling asleep at night by counting flowers instead of sheep. She may be pondering whether or not to hire a florist, how many flowers will be necessary, what percentage of the budget should go to flowers, and most importantly, which flowers should she choose? To help brides learn more about other wedding flowers aside from the rose, we are spotlighting popular selections that are being used across the country. In this week’s flower spotlight is the Kangaroo Paw.

First some background information. Kangaroo Paw is native to Australia. In fact, the green and red Kangaroo Paw is the official floral emblem of Western Australia. This particular flower is the most well most famous of all the Kangaroo Paws. Most varieties have a hardy, red stem that is hairy in appearance. The stems sprout from a low-laying shrub and often grown to a meter in height. The stems are study enough for small birds to perch on. The blooms sprout from the base in a fork-like appearance, similar to the shape of a paw print, hence its name. The blooms are available in various colors, the most popular being yellow, green, red, orange and metallic blue. With its brilliant colors and unique form, the Kangaroo Paw would add an unforgettable touch to flower arrangements of all sizes and styles.

The Kangaroo Paw’s popularity is not limited to Australia. Brides are demanding this flower more and more as its popularity amongst other wedding flowers steadily increasing. Perhaps the attraction is its allure from Down Under or the bold statement it makes with its bright colors and distinctive shape. Whatever the reason, the Kangaroo Paw is an attractive flower to add to any table centerpieces or ceremony arrangements. Include a description of it within your wedding program and bring its uniqueness to the guests’ attention. Regardless of a bride’s wedding flower style, these one-of-a-kind flowers can create unforgettable ceremony and reception flowers!

Green Flowers

Natural green flowers do exist. They are an exclusive gift from Mother Nature. Most green flowers are pale light green. Very few green flowers come in darker or brighter shades. These shades are usually achieved through professional method of tinting or dying. Although such flowers may be beautiful, the recipient may be disappointed if expecting a natural green flower. To help with your search for natural green flowers, we are providing you with the following descriptions of naturally green flowers.

One of the most popular green flowers on the market today is the green Cymbidium Orchid. This durable and fragrant flower has become a wedding flower must. Orchids have long been considered a sexy and alluring flower, and brides across the nation are incorporating this beauty into their wedding bouquets and table centerpieces. Other green flowers in high demand include the Calla Lily and Gerbera Daisy. The Green Goddess Calla Lily is a wonderful flower with a bloom similar in color to the stem. This flower is often used alongside other colors for a contrasting effect. Equally beautiful is the Green Gerbera Daisy, which most often is available in shades of light dusty green. As we all know, the Rose is a traditional yet very popular flower that never goes out of style. Several varieties are available in stunning shades of light green. Looking to steer away from tradition? Check out the various shades of green Hydrangea. These large-headed blooms help fill out arrangements while adding gorgeous color. An assortment of green hydrangea are available, include shades of baby green, kiwi and lime. Antique green hydrangeas often feature shades of green accented with either light pink or red.

As for adding just a splash of green, Carnations are making a comeback. These ruffled flowers are no longer exclusively for Mother’s Day. They are great as wedding flowers, ideal for special events such as St. Patrick’s Day, and are also perfect as a gift for someone special in your life. Other green flowers include the Lisianthus, Dendrobium Orchid, Chrysanthemums and Poms. The dusty green lisianthus adds beautiful splashes of romantic charm to arrangements while the green dendrobium orchid adds incomparable style. Chrysanthemums and Poms are also available in green. The green Anastasia Spider Mum is a full flower with many elongated petals that would make a memorable addition to any arrangement. For a less dramatic effect, try the smaller mini button pom. This flower is available in attractive shades of brighter green.

To add a hint of green, incorporate natural green filler flowers. Hypericum Berries are increasing in recognition. These flowers feature several small berries per stem, and its shades of green are what one might consider a true green. Couple them next to beautiful red flowers for an attractive Christmas flower arrangement. Another green filler flower is Bupleurum. This delicate flower contains small clusters of yellowish green flowers set against larger smooth leaves. It adds an elegant touch to bouquets and centerpieces. Finally, Bells of Ireland are amazing green flowers that can serve as fillers or stand alone. Also known as Molucella, Bells of Ireland is the perfect green flower for tall arrangements.

Wedding Traditions around the World

The world is a small place. Love has no boundaries. Together, these two statements create many international romances. International love can add excitement and diversity to a relationship, but it can also create several problems, especially when it comes to weddings. Many couples find themselves pondering which cultural traditions to incorporate into the ceremony. With numerous wedding traditions throughout the world, ceremonies are more and more multicultural in nature. Even couples from the same country often look to other cultures for unique ceremony ideas. Described below are a few wedding traditions rooted in Ireland and throughout South America.

Ireland

Lavender is a symbol of loyalty, devotion and luck. It is often incorporated into the bride’s bouquet as well as her hair. A traditional bride will have her hair braided. Braided hair is not only another source of luck, but also a source of feminine power.

The Claddagh ring originated in Ireland. According to ancient tale, a soon-to-be-wed couple was separated when the groom has taken captive. He learned the art of jewelry making during his captivity, and upon returning to his lady he made her a ring with two hands holding a heart resting beneath a crown. The hands symbolize faith, the heart love and the crown honor. Although many married and single women wear Claddagh rings today, only married women wear them on their left hand with the hands facing inward.

Not surprisingly, St. Patrick’s Day is considered the luckiest day to get married, and the luck grows with each anniversary that passes.

Russia

A Russian couple is officially married during a civil ceremony. Here they exchange their vow and consume bread and salt, which symbolize health, prosperity and a long life. This is a private event. The real celebration follows civil marriage, where friends and family gather for a two day reception full of dancing, dining and drinking.

Like many cultures, a toast is given during the reception ceremony. Unlike many cultures, the toast is followed by everyone throwing their champagne glasses on the floor. Luck comes with the break.

The front of the wedding vehicle serves as the couple’s hopes for children. They tie a doll onto the front if they wish their first child to be a girl. A bear signifies their hopes for a boy.

Interviewing a Florist

When it comes to hiring the ideal florist for your wedding, you can never be too over prepared. Flowers are the most important element in creating the ambiance and beauty of a wedding, that is, they come in second in beauty behind the bride. Choosing a florist who understands the visual mood you want to create is key. Although a florist can often do a variety of looks, it is best to choose a florist that you like. Not only will you be spending endless hours with this person, but together you will be designing one of the most romantic portions of the wedding and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Prior to meeting with a florist

• Research the professionals in your area. Go to bridal shows, visit their websites and talk with other recently married brides. Word of mouth usually never fails.

• Gather ideas. Keep a folder with magazine clippings, print outs and design ideas that you like. Be sure to include ideas on different flowers and styles. You should have ideas on bouquets, table centerpieces, boutonnieres, arrangements, the wedding cake and any other unique flower-related ideas. A florist can help you organize your idea, but you must know your likes and dislikes before the initial meeting.

Things to show the florist

• Your folder! You have been gathering ideas for months and it is now time to start sorting through and organizing them.

• Photos of your ceremony and reception locations. Include both indoor and outdoor pictures, everywhere you are planning to decorate. Do not forget about the entrances and a photo of the vehicle if you are planning on driving off into the sunset after the reception.

• Photos or swatches of your wedding and bridesmaid dresses. The material may be just as important as the color. Since some dresses shine or glimmer under certain lighting, swatches would give the florist a better idea of which flowers would best compliment the dress.

• A checklist of your wedding party, parents, readers, number of tables, etc. This list not only serve as a reminder of who needs what, but it will also allow you to see the breakdown of costs and where cuts can be made if you come in over budget.

• Your budget. Honesty is the best policy when it comes to flower costs. Be upfront with your florist. In turn, he should be conscious of your budget while discussing flower designs and styles.

Things to have the florist show you

• His portfolio. The florist will surely have a portfolio of his work. Also, take a look at the arrangements on display in the shop. Do they all look alike or is the florist able to show his creative side? Remember, while a good florist may have a favorite style that runs throughout his designs, he is an artist and should embrace the opportunity to work with the ideas that excite you!

• Has the florist ever designed flowers for your ceremony and reception site? If so, he will already know what works and what should be avoided.

• His schedule. Does he have other weddings planned on the same day as yours?

• Other services available. Talk about all your needs, including transportation of the arrangements to and from the site, rental supplies such as vases and candles, and flower preservation.

• Additional costs. These may include delivery charges, set up fees, samples, cancellation fees or other hidden fees such as simply changing your mind. Do not let these costs scare you. These costs may be negotiable depending on the amount of work for your specific needs.

Things you should not dismiss

• Do not interview every florist that you come across in your research. Narrow it down to 2-4 florists. Interview them and get quotes. Limit it to four. Otherwise the entire process will be overwhelming instead of fun and exciting.

• Personality. The florist’s professional personality will shine through during this meeting. Is his listening to your ideas or dismissing them? Are his ideas appealing to your interests or is he more excited about pleasing his own? Is he taking into consideration your budget and showing you the red warning flags as you talk about ideas that could easily double or triple your budget? If after the conclusion of the interview you should feel comfortable and excited to work with this person and further exchange ideas, then congratulations! You have just found the ideal florist for your wedding flowers!

Flower Spotlight: Hydrangea

With so many wedding styles available, a bride may be falling asleep at night by counting flowers instead of sheep. She may be pondering whether or not to hire a florist, how many flowers will be necessary, what percentage of the budget should go to flowers, and most importantly, which flowers should she choose? To help brides learn more about other wedding flowers aside from the rose, we are spotlighting popular selections that are being used across the country. In this week’s flower spotlight is the hydrangea.

First some background information. Different varieties of hydrangea are grown throughout different regions of the world, and their appearance can vary greatly. The actual plant that produces the flowers can be either a shrub or a small tree. Most of the flowers produced are white, but hydrangeas are also available in natural hues of blue, red, pink and purple. The most commonly sought after hydrangea flower is actually comprised of numerous smaller blooms that grow in a cluster. These large bushy blooms add voluminous color to flower arrangements of all sizes and styles.

Hydrangea’s popularity amongst other wedding flowers has been steadily increasing. In fact, it was even featured in The Knot’s list of Top 10 Wedding Blooms. Maybe its popularity is due to its versatility. Several single stems of hydrangea can easily help fill out table centerpieces or ceremony arrangements. Another popular choice, especially for bridal bouquets is to bunch 4-8 stems together to give the appearance of a single large flower. Add some simple filler flowers or greenery, and you will have an eye-catching bouquet that will not be soon forgotten. Want to match the men to the women? Several hydrangea laterals can be detached from the flower to create stunning boutonnieres. Regardless of a bride’s wedding flower style, these moderately priced flowers can dress up both the ceremony and reception site!

The 4 C’s of Diamond Rings

Whether you are already engaged or looking to pop the question, understanding diamond rings will allow you to select one that will last forever. Do your research before buying. With all the diamond selections available, you may be overwhelmed with the choices. Should you choose yellow gold, white gold, platinum or two-toned? Which cut better fits her personality: round, marquise, triangle or princess? Three stone or solitaire? The one thing that does not have to be overwhelming is jewelry basics. Below you will find a basic guide to diamond rings, including the common – and not so common – jargon used by jewelers.

Cut

Cut is often used by the general public to refer to a diamond’s shape. But its cut includes much more. A well-cut diamond sparkles. The way in which a diamond is proportioned and angled will determine how the light enters and exits the gem. The most brilliant cuts reflect light out through the gem’s top rather than its sides, where both light and brilliance are lost. Brilliance will also be lost if a cut is either too deep or too shallow. When it comes to a diamond’s sparkle and dazzle, the round cut is by far the most popular choice.

Color

A white diamond varies in color. The more colorless the diamond, the more rare it is, and needless to say, the more expensive it is. Experts have designed a letter scale from D-Z that categories a diamond’s color, with D being the purest and Z having yellow tones. To keep it simpler than the letter scale, a diamond can be classified in one of these 5 categories: colorless, near colorless, faint yellow or brown, very light yellow or brown, or light yellow or brown. A beauty of a diamond’s color is truly a matter of personal preference. While one woman may admire the radiance of a colorless diamond, another may prefer a more yellow diamond for its warmer tones. One word of advice. The setting can affect a diamond’s appearance. White gold or platinum settings bring out a diamond’s yellow tones, while yellow gold settings mask them.

Clarity

Nearly all diamonds have inclusions, or natural “birthmarks.” These inclusions were created naturally during the diamond’s formation. They are often pieces of other minerals or slight fractures or blemishes. While some inclusions may be invisible to the naked eye, others may appear as tiny crystals, clouds or feathers. A diamond’s clarity is based on the quantity, size and location of these inclusions. The fewer, the more valued the diamond. Even diamonds with several inclusions can be among the most stunning. The other 3 Cs can greatly reduce the ability to see a diamond’s birthmarks with the naked eye.

Carat

Carats measure a diamond’s weight. Larger diamonds are less frequently discovered than smaller ones. So, the larger the carat weight of a diamond, the more expensive it is. It is best to first choose the cut, color and clarity of your diamond, and then select its carat weight based on the wearer’s style and finger size, as well as the size of the setting and of course your budget. Keep in mind that two same-sized diamonds worn by two different women may appear smaller on one woman’s hand and larger on the other’s. A 1½-carat diamond solitaire looks much larger on a size 4 finger than a size 8. The most important aspect in selecting a diamond is personal preference, for all diamonds are truly a woman’s best friend.  

Two other important Cs include Certification and Care. Each diamond is issued a certification known as a grading report or diamond quality document. This report includes all information relevant to the diamond, including the 4 Cs as well as other important information such as its dimensions, symmetry and polish. This report is proof that the diamond has been professionally and carefully inspected and will live up to its standards. Yet, the certification alone will not ensure that the diamond lasts forever. Care is equally important. Although diamonds are the hardest material on earth, they are not indestructible. Dirt and residue can build up over time and diminish your diamond’s sparkle. A simple cleaning and polishing will renew its shine. It is also important to maintain the diamond’s setting. A lose setting may result in a lost diamond. When searching for a jeweler, select one that is not only interested in selling you your dream diamond but is also concerned with maintaining it for a lifetime!

Wedding Traditions around the World

The world is a small place. Love has no boundaries. Together, these two statements create many international romances. International love can add excitement and diversity to a relationship, but it can also create several problems, especially when it comes to weddings. Many couples find themselves pondering which cultural traditions to incorporate into the ceremony. With numerous wedding traditions throughout the world, ceremonies are more and more multicultural in nature. Even couples from the same country often look to other cultures for unique ceremony ideas. Described below are a few wedding traditions rooted in Korea and France.

Korea

Family is plays a very important role in the marriage process. First, the bride must be formally introduced to the groom’s family during the P’yeback, or Introduction ceremony. Then, at the conclusion of the wedding ceremony, she is formally introduced as a new member of the groom’s family. It is common for the groom’s father to toss ju jibes, or red dates at the bride to bless her with many children.

The bride’s gown is made of a colorful silk material, with the only white parts being the sleeves. The most noticeable part of her attire may be the large red dots painted onto each of her cheeks. This makeup characteristic is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring her good luck.

As a symbol of lifelong fidelity, many Korean weddings include ducks or geese. Whether the couple chooses to have live animals are present on their special day or simply incorporate artificial geese into their decorations, these animals are a must. Ducks and geese mate for life, thus severing as the perfect symbol of faithfulness.

France

Fragrant flowers have been a common French wedding accessory for centuries. Each flower carries a special meaning for the couple and is selected with extreme care. One of the most common traditions is the scattering of laurel leaves outside the church exist as the couple attempts their get-away.

One tradition that has been carried down from generation to generation is a special toast. Using a family heirloom known as the Coupe de Marriage, the newlyweds drink from this special cup that has two handles which symbolize their new life together.

Just as the couple is able to have some alone time after the reception, friends gather outside their room noisily banging pots and pans. This is all done in good fun, for the groom invites everyone inside where they continue celebrating.

Popping the Question… To Him!

So you have found the perfect guy that completes your life and you are looking to make a lifelong commitment. Women, there is no need to wait until leap year to propose to the man of your dreams! The rules of formal tradition no longer apply to modern-day couples, let alone to modern-day proposals. Engagements occur in midair and in stadiums in front of thousands, and although some may still involve a man getting down on one knee, engagements have been transformed into creative and often elaborate events. Whichever way a proposal plays out for a couple, it should be perfectly timed, unforgettable and shared with the right person.

Timing is everything. It is important to consider his mood and the daily events before popping the question. A bad mood or recently received bad news can spoil the entire proposal. More importantly, consider the timing in your relationship. Does the future of your relationship seem promising? Are you at a point where he will probably answer yes? If you have not already discussed marriage and are uncertain if you are both thinking of marriage, subtle hints may get him thinking about engagement. This is especially important if his answer would be no, for he would most likely mention his feelings prior to the actual proposal, saving you both from an awkward situation.

Do it in his style. No matter how many times you have fantasized about this moment, if you are the one popping the question, the moment must be perfect for him. You are now attempting to sweep him off his feet. A candle lit dinner and rose petals may not be his perfect idea of a proposal. If you cannot image proposing at a sporting event or at a car show, contrive a proposal that highlights you as a couple. Some ideas would be to propose where you first met or to recreate a romantic date you once went on. No matter how you plan the proposal, there are several things that women often overlook. First, keep it simple. If many “what ifs” must fall in place with exact timing to make the proposal work, avoid it. It should feel natural and not be subject to small obstacles ruining the moment. Secondly, keep the proposal straightforward. Women tend to get very emotional and nervous during this time, and, as you may be aware, they tend to ramble. Keep it simple and say it with confidence.

Be prepared for any response and give him time to respond. He may be caught complete off guard by the question. Men usually do not dream about this moment and do not mentally rehearse their reaction, so his response may be awkwardly. Give him time to answer. The response is usually one of three: no, I’m not sure, or yes. If you think there is a possibility that “no” or “I’m not sure” will be his answer, it is best to have a contingency plan, or several. Anticipate his arguments. Know what his doubts are. For example, he may be uneasy about marriage if you are currently unemployed or have children from a previous relationship. Reassure him that these uncertainties are equally important to you and that you will work together with him to overcome any and all obstacles. The most important thing is overcoming them together. Now, if yes is his answer, congratulations! And congratulations for taking charge of this once-in-a-lifetime moment and making it extra special for him.