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The dress is as unique for men. Tights, breeches, tunics, pirate shirts, laced vests, and boots are the order of the day. If his hair is long, it too can (in fact, should) be worn loose. Also, anything in a tapestry pattern is perfect for either the bride or the groom, as well as anyone in the wedding party.

Now you’re probably saying, sure, that sounds great, but where can I actually find such clothing? The answer is, there is more than one option available. There are manufacturers and pattern makers who offer excellent selections. Some of the major ones include Medieval Miscellanea, Past Patterns, Folkware Patterns, and Fantasy Fashion. The Raiments catalog is another place that came up frequently in my research.

If you don’t sew, or don’t know of anyone who does, another option is going to local costume shops, theatre groups, Renaissance fairs, or even the Salvation Army and seeing what they have. You’d be surprised some of the items people bring to these places!

FLOWERS

The element that makes the flowers of this celebration distinct from other weddings is the prominent use of herbs. Rosemary, thyme, basil, and even garlic often play a prominent role and are interspersed with the chosen flowers. This custom originated from what was then believed to be the mystical, even religious, significance of various herbs in both health and destiny.

As with the clothing, the flowers displayed should be rich, darker shades such as red, orange, purple, green, brown, and bright yellow. Suggested flowers include the gloriosa lily, which has the appearance of crushed red velvet; ivy; red roses; amaryllis; birch twigs or holly branches; and parrot tulips. Bouquets, especially the bride’s, should be large, overflowing, and hand-tied. Obviously, since this was long before the era of professional flower shops and Styrofoam used in fanciful centerpieces, all the flowers should appear as rustic and natural as possible.

One last thing in terms of flowers: believe it or not, wheat, considered symbolic of fertility, played a vital role in marriage ceremonies. Therefore, many brides today who are getting married in a Medieval wedding are sure to integrate some wheat into her bouquet.

INVITATIONS

The last thing you’ll need to figure out are the invitations. The most appropriate, and thus common, invitation to a Medieval/Renaissance wedding is made of ivory or beige parchment paper, with the announcement written (or printed) in calligraphy (black ink). The paper can then be either rolled like a poster and clasped with a napkin-like ring scrolled metal or wood, or folded into thirds and sealed with a gold seal, or, for the more altruistic, hot wax.

There are many gorgeous papers available nowadays at paper and art supply stores, many of them with a washed-out, antiquated look that is perfect for these invitations.

There’s no doubt that of all the period-style weddings, Medieval/Renaissance is not only one of the most popular but also the most dramatic and possibly romantic. Stone castles, Tudor fashions, Gothic design, sweeping velvet gowns, stunning wildflowers, and men in tights....what else could a bride possibly want for her special day?!

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Coming up next month: Elizabethan weddings