The History of Doves as Wedding Releases
Seeing doves at a wedding is not a new feature. Doves as wedding releases has been evident at weddings for a very long time, as the dove imparts much symbolism in many cultures. Western culture shows the dove on all sorts of wedding related merchandise such as invitations, cake plates, and favors. The dove also represents peace and love in Christian faiths. You will see this theme prominently displayed at Christmas on greeting cards, tree ornaments and gift tags. Indeed, the Bible has referenced the importance of doves many times throughout its different books. And, the Chinese culture is steeped with meanings from doves. In fact, they regularly practice bird releases to ward off evil. For them doves represent peace and a long life.
Doves play a huge role in mythology, too. Historically they were associated with the gods and were revered, considered sacred. Among other birds, the dove was sacred to both Aphrodite and Venus. Because of this ancient Greeks and Romans gave doves as gifts. The dove was faithful, devoted, loyal, trustworthy and honest. A groom who gave his bride a dove would be indicating his promise to look after her and their future children. He would affirm his love for her and the devotion that would ensue.
Snow white pigeons have been a symbol of the Olympics, first used in 1920 in Belgium. Walt Disney also used dove releases when he opened Disneyland in 1955. Needless to say, soap operas have had an influence on modern day wedding traditions. Creating wonderful spectacles of flying doves at the various characters' weddings has led more couples to fantasize about the same type of fairy tale weddings. And speaking about fairy tales, doves played a prominent role in helping Cinderella throughout the whole story, but particularly on her wedding day. And in later movie versions, the doves always helped with the wedding dress.
And don't forget that aside from the symbolism, many people started requesting doves as wedding releases simply because they saw stars and celebrities do it for their weddings. It became a type of status symbol to be able to order such an elegant and extravagant service.
Granted, releasing doves at wedding ceremonies or receptions is not a new tradition, but rather one that is steeped in centuries of history. It is only in recent years that the practice has become more prevalent among brides and grooms. The history of doves as wedding releases is as old as time.