Wedding Bells
From LoveToKnow Weddings
The mere anticipation of an engagement brings images of wedding bells to mind, and few icons of matrimonial ceremonies have such a rich tapestry of history and sentimental appeal.
Tradition
Bells have strong traditional ties to wedding ceremonies because they are packed with symbolism. The instruments are musical in nature and they often mark the beginning of an event or occasion. The chiming sounds offer auditory representation of special events, such as:
- Bell chimes measure time. This is apparent because they are used in clocks of various sizes.
- Chime in the new year. We often mark special occasions like the beginning of a new year—or a new marriage—with the prominent sound of the bell.
- Bells are formal. The instruments are used in churches, courthouses and schools, among other official institutions.
- Bells are sentimental. Consider the various ways bells are used as sentimental elements. “Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings.”
- Bells are memorable. If these wedding accents are used effectively, they leave a lasting impression.
Celtic Bell Tradition
Traditional Celtic wedding practices include bells for the bride and groom. Bells rung during the ceremony are thought to keep evil spirits at bay. The couple should receive at least one bell as a gift during an Irish wedding ceremony. The couple’s marriage bell is placed in a prominent place in their home, and the newlyweds use the bell to end an argument without admission of fault.
Types of Wedding Bells
There is a stunning collection of wedding bell favors and decorative elements to consider for your special occasion. The many styles offer a variety that is suitable for any number of wedding themes. The classic appeal of this element is suitable for formal affairs but many couples can fit different styles to suit casual events as well.
Wedding Bell Favors
Among the most important elements are wedding bell favors. The ring for a kiss bells are very popular and many brides find them to be a nice alternative to clanking spoons against glasses. The favors come in an array of styles and quality can vary greatly.
Other bell favor ideas include:
- Banners
- Bubbles
- Candies
- Cookies
- Cups
- Dessert plates
- Luminary bags
- Matchbooks
- Mint tins
- Napkins
- Place cards
Decorations
Bells are wonderful wedding decorations. White tissue honeycomb bell decorations are among the most popular but there are an array of colors and designs to consider. Decorations in bell themes include:
- Centerpieces
- Garland
- Confetti
- Hanging clusters
- Canopy
- Wands
Creating an Atmosphere
There are countless options to consider when creating a bell-wedding theme. Couples can select their bells of choice according to the atmosphere they would like to create during the wedding reception.
Types of bells include:
- Animal bells
- Bicycle bells
- Crystal
- Cowbell
- Dinner bells
- Doorbells
- Gold
- Hand bells
- Porcelain
- Silver
Different styles reflect different personalities. Cowbells and dinner bells are ideal for a Western wedding theme. Doorbells are symbolically charged elements that welcome the idea of opening a new door for the newlyweds. Formal occasions call for crystal, gold, porcelain, or silver bells.
Animal lovers can embrace a nature theme that includes lovely animal-inspired bells while cyclists can include their favorite sport by using bicycle bells into the occasion. There are many other creative ways to incorporate bells into the wedding.
Music
Bells are appealing to the eye but they are equally appealing to the ears as well. Couples can use the naturally compelling chimes and ringing sounds bells have to offer, depending on the atmosphere they want to create.
No CD compilations contain bell music for weddings exclusively but there are many collections of hand bell recordings that can work very well. Live hand bell ringers may also be of service for the wedding ceremony.
Ideally, the bell music plays during key times during the ceremony and reception. The music can indicate transitions between activities. For example, the bell music chimes as guests anticipate the entry of the wedding party at the beginning of the reception.
Lasting Appeal
The bell is present from the first declaration of love to anniversary celebrations. Symbolism, tradition, and beauty are qualities of wedding bells. There is little wonder why they are so intertwined into images of marriage.
Learn More
This page has been accessed 1,308 times. This page was last modified 20:59, 31 December 2008.
© 2006-2009 LoveToKnow Corp.
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