Text by Carol Grisanti
Photo's by Craig Paul Studio's

"There is nothing quite as transformational as a bridal veil. Other than the wedding ring, it is perhaps the most symbolic accessory a woman will ever wear. The 'donning' of the veil is a wedding custom that exists in nearly every culture around the world. It is also a ritual with enduring social and religious implication and one to which many brides still subscribe."
-Vera Wang, Designer

Truly, the veil or bridal headdress is so steeped in tradition that it has remained a constant image of bridal pageantry. Over the centuries it has evolved but changed relatively little when compared to other fashion trends.

In ancient times wreaths of herbs and flowers worn on the head signified purity, fertility, and long life. To shield the bride from curious stares and evil spirits, the nuptials were exchanged under a care cloth or veil similar to the Hebrew huppah. So important was the veil to the Roman marriage rite that the day after consummation was known as the "unveiling."

By the Middle Ages, jeweled caps and long conical headdresses worn on the back of the head featured a long, sheer veil cascading to the ground. During the sixteenth century, brimmed hats were the fashion statement.

To the Victorians, the veil was the perfect testament of feminine purity. Many of the most popular traditions followed by today's brides originated in this era, and Queen Victoria's all white wedding in 1840 was the beginning of worldwide acceptance of white as the preferred color for bridal attire.

Today the choices for bridal headwear are limited only by one's imagination. Illusion for veiling comes in many shades of white and ivory as well as other colors. Decorative edging of ribbon,cording or lace may be added for a special effect. Several factors will determine length and fullness, but personal preference usually wins this debate.

While every bride may not want to wear a veil, some form of hair adornment is as important as the jewelry she will wear. A fancy comb, hair picks, fresh flowers, or feathers will compliment her hairstyle and will photograph well.

Tiaras are currently trendy. You don't have to be royalty to wear one, but you will definitely feel like a princess. Whether silver or gold, unique accents of Austrian crystals, freshwater pearls, and glass shapes can add dimension and highlights to the headpiece. By incorporating an antique heirloom such as your grandmother's broach or family pearls and jewelry, you've created a custom-made piece that can be passed to other generations.

Whether you go with a traditional style, a current trend, or attempt something new, it should always compliment you and be comfortable. Enjoying your wedding day is your ultimate goal