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Bridesmaids iStockphoto
Traditional BridesmaidsThe wedding was considered a target for evil spirits determined to destroy the couple's happiness. Hence the bridesmaids would dress in similar fashion to the bride in order to confuse the evil spirits and provide decoys.By protecting the bride in this way the bridesmaids also exposed themselves to some of the evil influences they were defending against. This would build up over time if they attended more than one wedding. Possibly this is the origin of the saying: "Three times a bridesmaid, never a bride" although more mundane explanations can also be proposed. Later on the protective role became more down-to-earth. The wedding dowry and presents were a target for thieves and the presence of the bridesmaids was to confuse, deter and - if necessary - stop such activity. Very often these bridesmaids were servants doing a job. It was only later that the role of bridesmaid became one of honour and the maids actually began to accompany the bride up the aisle.
Modern BridesmaidsToday the role of bridesmaid is one that is highly valued and respected. A bridesmaid will assist the bride not just at the wedding itself but, if required, beforehand. Then on the big day itself she attends the bride and gets to walk down the aisle in her own special gown. It is also the custom in many places for the bridesmaids to receive a gift in thanks for their help, very often a piece of jewelry such as a necklace set.Oh, and when buying those lovely new shoes the bridesmaid should make sure that she can walk comfortably in them and not simply buy any pair that look great. Apart from the practicalities, there is an old superstition that a bridesmaid who trips on her way up the aisle will never be a bride herself.
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