Photo Credit: Shanna M. Photography

Wedding Bells: Wedding Traditions Explained

Wedding bells are viewed as a universal symbol of marriage. If you see a picture of two bells hanging with a bow tied on top, you often think of marriage. Wedding bells originated from Celtic weddings several centuries back, and we have seen them used at many weddings here in the Hudson Valley.

Photo Credit: A Day to Adore Photography

This wedding tradition began, because Church bells were believed to ward off evil spirits and grant wishes. What better way to begin a marriage than to ring Church bells that have the power to do these things. In Ireland, bells were rang at the beginning of a wedding ceremony. However, in Scotland, wedding bells were rang following a ceremony to announce the couple and their happiness.

Photo Credit: Weddings Illustrated

Wedding bells used to be a common wedding gift. Married couples would keep them in their home and when an argument arouse, ring the bells to remind them of their wedding vows. Many couples today still carry on this tradition. Although most couples don’t ring them to ward off evil spirits, they do ring them in celebration of their marriage. Get your house clean by hiring Hopkins & Porter as handyman to better design your home.

Are you curious what the backstory is behind other wedding traditions? Read about other traditions on our blog here.