Flowers were brought into weddings to represent new life, never-ending love, purity and fertility. The groom wears a flower that appears in the bridal bouquet, to signify his declaration of love. Bouquets traditionally consisted of flowers and herbs. Some bouquets also contained dill, since it was believed that dill promoted desire. After the ceremony, the dill would be eaten for that purpose.

An Irish bride insists on having lavender in her bouquet, as it signifies good luck and happiness. Tossing the bouquet comes from an English tradition where women would attempt to tear pieces of the bride