Here are some of the stories behind the rituals. Wearing a new white dress to be used only for a wedding ceremony is a tradition that is only about 150 years old. Before that, few women could afford a dress they would wear only once. White traditionally symbolizes youth and innocence. Red and orange are popular in Asia and the Middle East, where they are considered joyful and festive colors.
Cake Using wheats and grains in the making of wedding cakes is an ancient symbol of fertility.
In ancient Rome a thin loaf of bread was broken over the marrying couple's heads. The crumbs were saved and taken home by the guests as tokens of good luck. Tiered wedding cakes originated in old England, where the bride and groom kissed over a stack of little cakes. The canopy used in Jewish weddings is called a huppah . Flowers Ancient Roman brides wore bunches of herbs under their veils as symbols of fidelity.