The History of Wedding Bells
Church bells used to ring loud and clear across the countryside in rural areas. It was a way to spread the news of an event that occurred at the church, whether it was announcing a service, funeral, or wedding. Wedding superstition follows the thought that the bells would scare off evil spirits intent on ruining the new couple’s happiness. The bells were thought to bring luck and fortune to the newlyweds.
The church bells would be rung as the couple walked down the aisle together or came out of the church. The wedding bells are often rung today as part of the wedding ceremony, to begin and end the service.
Wedding Bells Symbolism Today
In the twenty-first century and beyond, wedding traditions like bells have continued to be popular symbols of marriage. Although the superstition of warding off evil spirits has faded, they are still rung as a symbolic way to celebrate the couple’s new life together.
Wedding bell graphics used as ceremony and wedding reception decorations usually depict two bells joined at the top by a bow. This may be a symbolic depiction of the two people, bride and groom, who have been joined together in marriage.
Symbolic Bell Theme
With the history of wedding bells and their meaning of love and a new life, couples often choose to theme their wedding around the symbol. Bell representations can be used throughout the wedding and reception:
- As a graphic on wedding invitations
- On the wedding programs
- As an alternative to pew bows
- Hung from the ceiling at the wedding reception
- As part of the wedding reception centerpiece
- As unique wedding favors, kissing bells, toasting bells & bride and groom sendoff bells.
The use of wedding bells symbolism is a historical wedding tradition that continues to be popular in modern society. Although the folklore of warding off evil and bad luck has dissipated, the bells continue to symbolize love, joy, and the start of a new life together for couples who get married.
