Friday, June 8, 2012

Veiling the Bride to be

There are many stories of the origin of a bride's veil. Some say that the veil was introduced in ancient Rome. People of that era believed that evil spirits would be attracted to the bride, so they covered her face with a veil in order to conceal her features and confuse them. The definition of veil is to "obscure, shroud, mask or cover, so perhaps that is how the bridal "veil" got its name.

It's also said the in medieval times, the veil was used to protect her from "the evil eye" and was a symbol of purity, chastity, and modesty.

Others say the the origin of the bridal veil was due to the circumstances of an arranged marriage. In days past, men bargained with an eligible young lady's father for their hand in marriage. AFTER the ceremony, the veil was lifted to reveal the brides features. This was to keep a groom from backing out of the deal if he didn't like what he saw.

Some say that the veil was used in days past as a symbol of a bride's submission and willingness to obey her husband.

Certain lengths of bridal veils got their names from how or where they were worn. At one time, Cathedral Veils were only worn in wedding that took place in cathedrals.

Well, times have changed the meaning of the tradition of wearing a bridal veil! Now, wearing a bridal veil:
•signifies a special event - A Wedding!

•signifies joy

•highlights the bride's appearance and features

•is the final crowning touch! Bridal Gowns are transformed with the addition of a veil.


The past history of wearing a bridal veil has given way to new traditions. Over the past 20 years, traditions surrounding the bridal veil have changed even more. Veils were worn more frequently over the face (a blusher). Now, you don't have to wear if over your face all all if you don't want to.

Brides of our day are making their own wedding veil history! Star Jones of the popular Television show "The View" wore a 27' FOOT long Veil--the longest known veil in history. It's dubbed the "Star Cathedral Veil". Her veil was two feet longer than Princess Diana's Bridal Veil.

It also used to be that brides marrying for the second time were not supposed to wear a veil, especially a white veil. Nowadays, it's perfectly acceptable to wear a veil (even a white one) for a second marriage if you want to! (Don't let anyone try to tell you different. It's YOUR day! If you want to wear it, go ahead!)

The wearing of a bridal gown and veil is one of the big days in a woman's life--Choose what YOU feel comfortable in and enjoy your special day! JUST DON"T OVER DO IT!



DO
-Wear a simple veil (i.e., single layer of tulle with either raw edge, pencil, or ribbon trim no wider than one inch) for an outdoor or daytime wedding.

-Opt for unique veils: a mantilla for a church or synagogue ceremony, to coordinate with and highlight the lace on your gown.

-Wear a cathedral veil at a traditional gown-and-church ceremony.

-Choose antique lace for a romantic, vintage feeling.

-A hat with netting works well with a City Hall white suit or cocktail dress.

-Keep with current trends and wear a veil lower in your hair.

-Wear a blusher for a traditional church ceremony.

DON’T
-Don heavy lace or embroidered veils at outdoor weddings.

-Wear the veil for the duration of the reception. Most brides take it off right after the ceremony, though some keep it on until the first dance.

-Have such a long, detailed, or complicated veil that it competes with the dress. Don’t go overboard with crystal trim, sequins, or embroideries.

-Fall victim to a crooked or messy veil. Put your maid of honor in charge of fluffing throughout the ceremony.

-Do tiaras unless they are very understated. Mikimoto makes simple pearl-and-diamond combinations.

-Wear a veil to your bachelorette party, please.


Try resources like www.theknot.com and "here comes the guide" for more advice!
Remember we are here for consultations and advice too, just book an appointment.


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