Unique Bridal Veil Traditions in Southern Weddings

At Tara Bridal, we are proud to have served over +3K brides in the past five years from a diverse spread of 1,553 cities across 39 countries. As we have been crafting exquisite, handmade veils for many American brides, our exploration of American wedding culture has been both exciting and enlightening. 

We are continually inspired by the unique traditions that shape Southern weddings, which motivate us even more in our veil-making process. Below, we share our insights on bridal veils in Southern weddings, and we would be delighted if brides would share additional experiences they’ve had with Southern weddings, as we are always eager to learn more!

I. Southern Wedding Culture

Southern weddings are renowned for their rich traditions, elegance, and deep-rooted family values. These celebrations often showcase a blend of timeless customs and modern flair. Family gatherings are central to these ceremonies, with many traditions passed down through generations. This cultural backdrop creates a perfect canvas for brides to express themselves and share something of their family, especially through their choice of bridal veils.

Comparison of Popular Wedding Styles in the U.S.

II. Unique Southern Bridal Veil Traditions

The traditions found in Southern weddings continue to inspire countless brides. Often embracing four important elements: “something new,” representing fresh beginnings; “something old,” a cherished heirloom passed down from previous generations; “something borrowed,” an item from someone with a happy marriage; and “something blue,” symbolizing fidelity and love. These elements provide brides with the opportunity to showcase their unique style and personality through distinctive veil choices. Something of their personal story is shared with every intentional choice.

1. Heirloom Veils Passed Down for Generations

In the South, many brides wear veils that have belonged to their mothers, grandmothers, or even great-grandmothers. These heirloom veils are often carefully preserved and restored for each new bride, adding layers of sentimental value every time it is passed down. Personalization being added to the veil is common; brides may choose to add a monogram, initials, or personal dates with each generation, so the veil may serve as a record of the family’s marital history.

At Tara Bridal, we embrace the sustainability movement by offering high quality veils made from ethically sourced materials that brides can pass down with confidence. For more on this topic, check out our blog post, “The Sustainability Movement and Veil Choices in the US.”

2. The integration of “Something Old” Tradition with Modern Veils

Bride: Sarah Lowenthal. Veil: Toni - bespoke veil.

The “something old” tradition is particularly poignant in Southern weddings. Brides often incorporate vintage lace or fabric from family heirlooms into their veils. For instance, using antique lace from a mother’s wedding gown or pieces from their grandmother’s veil. Tara Bridal’s organza collection offers options for brides to personalize with family touches.

The “something old” tradition can encompass not only physical items but also figurative meanings; what is passed down can be the spirit and memories shared across generations, ideas and values that shaped the family the bride has come from.

For example, the Toni Veil is a heartfelt creation inspired by Sarah Lowenthal, designed to honor the cherished memory of her family members. Each hand-embroidered custom flower on this veil represented a cherished figure in her life. Similarly, the Samantha Veil features flowers symbolizing the bonds between family members, like an interconnected network of life that grows together and supports one another in all things.

3. Lace from Southern-Made Designs

Bride: Beatriz Galvez - LA, CA. Veil: AMY veil - CUSTOM. Photo: jaytography

Southern brides often seek out handmade lace veils, crafted by local artisans who draw inspiration from the region's historic fashion. This type of craftsmanship ensures that each veil tells a story that connects a bride to place.

At Tara Bridal, we celebrate this tradition with our Lace Veil Collection, offering styles that reflect the charm and elegance of Southern bridal fashion. Each piece is meticulously crafted to provide a perfect finish to any wedding gown, making it a treasured addition to any bride's ensemble.

4. Outdoor Garden Wedding Veils

Colorful Kaitie veil

Outdoor weddings in the South are often held in picturesque locations like gardens or  on farmland. As a result, brides planning these ceremonies typically choose lightweight veils that suit warm weather and gentle breezes.

Chapel or fingertip veils are popular options for these breezy settings, as they are less likely to catch on grass or twigs. One of our bestsellers, the Kaitie Veil, is a stunning embroidered floral veil that draws inspiration from the beautiful peony and cosmos flowers native to the Americas. Each detail is handcrafted, creating an ethereal and romantic appearance that is perfect for outdoor spaces.

Additionally, our Kaitie in Color Veil offers a vibrant twist, featuring soft pink and yellow hues that reflect the natural beauty of Southern gardens. This veil adds a natural look that complements garden or forested surroundings. Brides can choose to keep the design colors as they are or customize the veil's colors to match their personal preferences, ensuring a truly unique and personalized accessory for their special day.

5. The "Something Blue" Tradition

In Southern weddings, the "something blue" tradition symbolizes fidelity and love. Brides often incorporate this color into their veils, whether through embroidered detailing or intimate embellishments. This can be a beautiful way to personalize the veil while centering tradition in your aesthetic choices.

At Tara Bridal, our artisans can help create custom veils that feature blue accents, allowing brides to seamlessly integrate this culturally relevant element into their wedding attire.

III. How to Choose the Perfect Veil for a Southern Wedding

Consider Venue & Setting

When selecting a veil, consider your wedding venue. Whether it's a church, farm, garden, or beach, the setting will influence your choice. For outdoor locations, lighter fabrics and breathable designs are essential.

For more insights, check our blog on “How American Brides Choose Veils for Outdoor vs. Indoor Weddings.”

Choose a Veil Style that Complements Your Gown

The veil style should harmonize with the traditional Southern wedding gown, which often features lace details and flowing tulle. For instance, our Paola Veil showcases exquisite floral designs that capture the essence of Southern nature, making it an ideal choice for brides looking to enrich their gown’s beauty.

Decide Between Heirloom vs. Modern Veils

Brides should also think about whether they prefer the vintage feel of heirloom pieces, or modern highly individualized styles. Many of our veils can be customized to incorporate elements from both, adding layers of personality to the bridal accessory.

Plan for Warm Weather Considerations

For outdoor weddings, consider lighter fabrics that are suitable for warm weather. Our blog on “The Best Materials for Beach Wedding Veils: Lightweight and Windproof Options” offers valuable information that is also applicable to other outdoor settings.

Conclusion

Choosing a bridal veil is an important part of planning your wedding day, especially in the context of Southern wedding traditions. At Tara Bridal, we take pride in our artisanal techniques and the cultural significance of Vietnamese embroidery. Our unique veils reflect the stories and values of brides who seek something special for their big day.

Our artisans, with over 15 years of experience, are dedicated to crafting veils that are not only beautiful but also infused with meaning. If you're ready to create a cherished piece that will boost your wedding attire, contact us for a consultation. Let us help you find the perfect veil that tells your love story!