White Wedding Meaning & Definition: What is a White Wedding

When we hear the term “white wedding,” we immediately picture a bride in a white dress walking down the aisle. But have you ever wondered about the significance of the color white in weddings? The tradition of white weddings goes back centuries and is deeply rooted in symbolism and cultural beliefs. In this article, we’ll explore the meaning behind white weddings, including their history, symbolic significance, and traditional elements. So, whether you’re a bride planning your own white wedding or simply curious about the customs and traditions surrounding this type of ceremony, read on to discover the fascinating meaning behind the white wedding.

White Wedding Meaning

What is a White Wedding?

A white wedding is a traditional Christian wedding ceremony that takes place in a church. It typically features a white dress and decorations, as well as a cake.
The history of the white wedding goes back to ancient times when brides wore white dresses because they were considered pure and virginal; this tradition continues today in many cultures around the world.

History of White Weddings

White weddings originated in the United Kingdom in the 19th century, and became popular in the United States during the 20th century. Queen Victoria popularized the white wedding dress in 1840 when she wore a white gown to her wedding.
White weddings were also popularized by celebrities like Princess Diana, who wore a pure white dress with lace sleeves and train when she married Prince Charles at St Paul’s Cathedral on July 29, 1981.

Symbolic Meaning of White Weddings

The symbolic meaning of white weddings is rooted in the purity and innocence associated with this color. White represents joy and new beginnings, as well as a fresh start for a couple who has decided to commit themselves to each other for life.

White is also often associated with purity and virginity, which can be seen in its use during religious ceremonies such as baptism or confirmation. In some countries, brides wear white wedding dresses because they want their marriage to be seen as pure and untouched by outside influences (such as previous relationships).

Traditional Elements of White Weddings

The traditional elements of a white wedding include:

  • A white wedding dress. This is the most obvious way to incorporate the color into your ceremony, but it isn’t always necessary. If you’re not sure if you want to wear white or not, try on some dresses in different shades of ivory and see which one looks best on you!
  • A white cake. Even if you’re having an outdoor ceremony at a park or beach where there aren’t any nearby bakeries (and therefore no cakes), there are plenty of options for ordering custom cakes online these days–you could even make one yourself using our recipe for vanilla bean cake with raspberry filling!
  • White decorations like flowers and ribbons around chairs; candles on tables; bows tied around chairs’ backs (if they aren’t already); etcetera ad infinitum ad nauseam…

White Wedding Dresses

White wedding dresses are a traditional element of white weddings. White wedding dresses symbolize the bride’s purity and innocence, and they are often made of luxurious fabrics such as silk or satin.
The color white has long been associated with purity, but it wasn’t until Queen Victoria wore one during her 1840 wedding that it became an important part of the ceremony. Since then, many brides have chosen to wear white gowns on their big day–and the trend isn’t going anywhere anytime soon!

wedding planning checklist wedding dresses off the shoulder

off the shoulder a-line ball gown wedding dress
off the shoulder a-line ball gown wedding dress

simple wedding dresses off the shoulder long sleeves simple wedding dresses satin long sleeves aline

White Cakes

White cakes are a traditional element of white weddings. White cakes are often decorated with white icing and white flowers, and they are often made with white ingredients such as egg whites and cream.

Simple white wedding cake with white flowers on top
Source: The Overwhelmed Bride
Buttercream wedding cake with sugar orchids
Source: the knot

White Decorations

White decorations are a traditional element of white weddings. White flowers, candles and fabrics such as tulle and organza can be used to decorate your wedding venue.

white birdcages and baby's breath wedding centerpiece
white birdcages and baby’s breath wedding centerpiece
minimalistic black white bridal welcome signs with white flowers and greenery
https://www.deerpearlflowers.com/wedding-decors/

White Aisle Runners

A white aisle runner is a traditional element of white weddings. It symbolizes the couple’s journey to the altar, and they are often made of white fabrics such as satin or velvet.

Modern White Weddings

There are many different types of white weddings, but the most common one is the traditional one. In this type of wedding, everything from the bride’s dress to the decorations is white or off-white. The groom usually wears black tuxedos with a white shirt and tie.
Traditional white weddings can also include non-traditional elements such as colored wedding dresses (i.e., ivory), colored cakes (i.e., chocolate) and colored decorations (i.e., gold).

Conclusion

White weddings are a traditional Christian ceremony that symbolize a couple’s commitment to a lifelong union of love and fidelity. White weddings typically include white wedding dresses, white cakes, white decorations and white aisle runners. The symbolism behind the color of these items has changed over time–it was once associated with purity but now stands for happiness and prosperity.
A white wedding is an important event in any woman’s life and should be celebrated accordingly!