1. Throwing the Garter
The garter toss is so traditional, it’s medieval. Guests would tear the wedding dress to steal some luck. By the Middle Ages, brides preemptively started sacrificing their stockings and garters.
2. Ring Finger
In ancient times, people believed that a vein connected what’s now known as the ring finger to the heart. Modern anatomy says this is malarkey, but it’s a sweet thought.
3. Bridesmaid Dresses
Bridesmaids once dressed like the bride to confuse malevolent spirits that might put a curse on the soon-to-be-wed couple. (Those nefarious spirits are also the reason why brides wear veils.)
4. Wedding Cake
Like tossing rice and breaking bread over the bride’s head (thankfully, outdated), wedding cakes trace back to the ancient belief that grains symbolize and promote fertility.
