Teeming with Old-World charm, bride’s tree Christmas ornaments bestow wishes for marital bliss in a centuries-old custom. This special gift for newlyweds has gained prominence in Southern homes decked for the holidays, as unboxing the artful baubles remains a tradition as precious as the moments spent hanging them together with care year after year.
Tokens of Love
Often sold in a boxed set, the 12 mouth-blown glass ornaments—one for each month of the year—bid couples good fortune. A stylized bird signifies joy and happiness; a rabbit symbolizes hopefulness; a fish represents God’s blessings; Santa embodies goodwill; and a basketful of fruit represents abundance and generosity. An angel serves as a token of Christian faith, and the pine cone has long been associated with spiritual enlightenment and fertility. Beauty and affection take the form of a single rose bud and a bouquet of blooms. A house characterizes shelter and protection, while a teapot typifies gracious hospitality. The final ornament is a charming red heart for true love.
Timeless Appeal
The most notable collection was first produced by German company Inge-Glas, famous since the 1800s for the distinct craftsmanship of their heirloom-quality ornaments. Today, leading U.S. company Old World Christmas helps keep the bride’s tree tradition alive, and their collection comes in satin-lined gift boxes made to last. New and vintage renditions can be found at antiques stores, local Christmas shops, and online retailers. If you cannot find a complete set, purchase the accents individually to gift for multiple occasions, whether an engagement party, wedding day, or anniversary celebration.
Read the full “Boxful of Blessings” story in our November/December 2021 issue.
Styling by Sidney Bragiel
Photography by Stephanie Welbourne Steele
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