Wednesday, March 6, 2013

What's the Reason Behind the Wedding Bouquet?

SO, I've been a bride. I carried a beautiful wedding bouquet (grown by my #1 Mama, sorry had to brag) down the aisle................... because I knew it was just one of those things on the wedding checklist. 
(This was my bouquet!) Photo by Nicole Swenson Photography


But what is the REAL meaning behind it?

I did a little research. According to the website called "Planning the Perfect Wedding Day" I found that the brides bouquet hasn't always been made up of flowers. In fact, the original pieces were made up of herbs and spices to ward off evil spirits. 

It wasn't until 1839, when Prince Albert  married Queen Victoria that fresh flowers were used as a brides bouquet. BUT GET THIS, they used marigolds and dill (which are edible) and the bride, groom, and guests would eat the bouquet during the reception. The dill is known as the 'herb of lust' and they used it to increase sexual desire. RAAAWWRRR! 

In Victorian Times, people used a flower 'language' called Florigraphy. Each flower had a different and specific meaning. 
HERE ARE A FEW POPULAR CHOICES:

RED ROSES= LOVE
ZINNIA= LASTING AFFECTION
TULIP= SYMBOL OF PERFECT LOVER
SUNFLOWER= PRIDE
ORCHID= CHARMING
PEONY= HAPPY LIFE/MARRIAGE
DAISY= INNOCENCE
DAHLIA= GOOD TASTE

That's all for today's history lesson, kids. Lol. So remember when you're choosing your bouquet, choose the colors you want, the blooms that look perfect, your favorite flower, and most of all REMEMBER THE DILL ;)

Here are some of my past brides bouquets if you're looking for a little inspiration! Be sure to check out the seashell bouquet!
















"History of Bridal Bouquets" Planning the Perfect Wedding Day. 2007 - 2012 Perfect-Wedding-Day. 6 March 2013

Monday, March 4, 2013

Kicking off 2013 Wedding Season

Hello all!

I've had a few months off from the wedding photography season, and now I'm back in action. But rest assured,all of my brides, that I've been practicing, reading, and educating myself in the off season to keep improving my work!

MAN, after seeing these photos, I realized how much I missed shooting real weddings! Kelly and Aaron had a sweet and intimate wedding at the courthouse here in Harrisonville, with just family and a few good friends. (After seeing this, I'm thinking this is the way to go when it comes to a wedding, it was perfect!) 

Missouri is known for it's crazy weather, and we never saw this blizzard coming!!! IT'S ALMOST SPRING FOR GOODNESS SAKE!!! Thankfully, Kelly was more than willing to put on those snow boots under her dress to grin and BARE it :) Ladies and gentlemen, Mr & Mrs Aaron Crust!