Alternative Things for Bridesmaids to Carry Down the Aisle
- Carrying a basket is a simple alternative to having your bridesmaids hold a traditional bouquet. Bridesmaids' baskets can be filled with just about anything you choose, from feathers to potpourri. If you still like the look and smell of flowers, the basket can be trimmed with flowers and filled with flower petals. The flower selection for your basket can vary depending on the theme or season of your wedding. Daffodils, tulips, hyacinth, lily of the valley, cherry blossom and wild daisies are perfect for spring weddings. Summer flowers range from roses, magnolia and carnations to lilies and lilac. Autumn weddings can have baskets filled with twigs, nuts, berries, acorns, ears of wheat, cones, leaves twigs and other fall foliage.
- Throughout history, parasols were a staple in women's fashion to the point where a women's outfit was not complete without one. Parasols made of satin, lace or silk will give the bridesmaids a classy, elegant look. Carrying a parasol instead of a bouquet will compliment the bridesmaids' dresses and can also double as a protection from the sun or unexpected rain during an outdoor wedding. Parasols are perfect for beach or summer outdoor weddings. In the winter, parasols can be trimmed with white fur around the edge.
- A fan is a creative bouquet alternative that can be left plain or decorated with pearls, flowers, crystals or beads to match the bridesmaids’ dresses. During Victorian times, an antique fan, complete with matching parasol and gloves worn by a Victorian lady, was the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Outdoor summer weddings are perfect for carrying fans because your bridesmaids can fan themselves during the ceremony and while taking pictures.
- Have your bridesmaids light your way down the aisle by holding a candle during the ceremony. This is a wonderful alternative for evening or nighttime weddings or to just add a touch of romance to the ceremony. Choose colored candles that match the theme of your wedding and coordinate with your bridesmaids' dresses or select long, white candles for simple elegance. This option is not only beautiful, but will also help cut down on the electricity you use to power your event.
