THE TRADITIONS OF THE BRIDAL HEADPIECE

Headpieces are chosen separately from veiling. Though the earliest brides said their "I dos" crowned with floral and herbal wreaths -- which continue to be popular, particularly for outdoor and beach ceremonies there are many other options for the bride today. Eastern Orthodox brides know to look forward to a crowning ceremony when they marry, during which both the bride and groom have ornate crowns placed on their heads; the crowns are blessed and exchanged three times, and when they are removed the couple is officially married. Similarly, the Finnish bride wears a gold crown, which she places on the head of a bridesmaid -- while blindfolded -- during a reception dance. It is said the lucky maid will be the next to marry, much in keeping with the tradition of American brides tossing the bouquet. http://www.russprice.com/moreinfo/russ_price_the_history_of_wedding_traditionsbouquet.