Why do brides carry flowers?

During ancient times, brides often carried flowers along with strong smelling herbs, spices, garlic and even chives in order to scare off evil spirits and prevent bad luck. Lovers in Victorian times would also use different flowers to signify different meanings.

Aside from the bride, the groom also wears a flower from the bridal bouquet. This practice came from Medieval times when a knight would wear his lady's colors as he went into battle as a symbol of his love for her. The bridal bouquet is a symbol of happiness. During the reception, the bride throws the bouquet to spread the happiness to an unmarried female in hopes of bringing her happiness.