SPARKLING BUTTERFLIES

The butterfly is a symbol of transformation.  It begins earth-bound and later takes flight as something new and beautiful.  So, it's no wonder that brides are drawn to the beauty of the butterfly when considering symbols and icons to incorporate into their wedding day -- via a hairclip, decor, even the ceremony.

For a bride and groom recently married in Mexico, I provided handmade, golden-glittered butterlies which were handed out to all the guests.  Just prior to the bride and groom's sharing of their vows, the guests were called up to make a wish with their butterfly and lay it at the feet of the bride and groom.  It could be a wish for themselves, or a wish for the bride and groom.  Symbolically, these wishes would then take flight upon the formalizing of the marriage.  For a bride who loves has both earthy sensibilities and a love of "things that are extra-sparkly," this was a perfectly personalized ceremonial ritual.

(photo: flickr)