Wurfstrauß

Wurfstrauß is a German term that translates to "throwing bouquet" in English. It refers to the custom in Western weddings where the bride, after the ceremony and often before the reception begins, throws her bridal bouquet over her shoulder to her unmarried female guests. The belief is that the woman who catches the bouquet will be the next to marry. This tradition is a symbolic and often playful moment during the wedding festivities.

The Wurfstrauß is typically a smaller, less elaborate version of the bride's main bouquet. It is designed to be easily thrown and caught. While its origins are somewhat debated, the practice is widely seen as a continuation of ancient rituals related to fertility and good luck. Some accounts trace it back to medieval times where it was believed that touching the bride's dress would bring good fortune. Over time, this evolved into the more dynamic act of catching the bouquet.

The Wurfstrauß tradition is a common sight at many weddings in Germany and other Western cultures. It serves as an opportunity for fun and lighthearted interaction among the wedding guests. The bride's act of tossing the bouquet is a symbolic gesture of passing on good luck and the hope of future marriage to her single friends. The woman who catches it is often congratulated and may even be the subject of good-natured teasing. The Wurfstrauß remains a cherished and recognizable element of the modern wedding.