Discover the meaning behind the myths that still shape our world.

In weddings, lilies are believed to symbolize a joyful marriage lasting a hundred years.

Lilies as Symbols of Lasting Love in Weddings

Details

Lilies, known for their elegance and fragrant blooms, are commonly included in floral arrangements, bouquets, and decorations during wedding ceremonies. The custom is rooted in the belief that lilies represent purity, renewal, and enduring devotion—qualities considered essential for a harmonious and lasting marriage. Wedding planners and couples often choose white lilies, particularly Madonna lilies or calla lilies, for their symbolism of innocence and commitment. The superstition holds that incorporating lilies into the wedding ritual invokes a blessing of happiness and unity that extends across the couple’s lifetime—sometimes said to be ‘a hundred years of joy.’ While modern couples may choose lilies for aesthetic reasons, the traditional symbolism remains a meaningful influence in many floral selections.

Historical Context

The association of lilies with purity and fidelity dates back to ancient civilizations such as Greece and Rome, where lilies were sacred to goddesses like Hera and Juno, both symbols of marriage and childbirth. In Christian symbolism, the lily became linked to the Virgin Mary, further reinforcing its theme of innocence and sanctity in the context of life unions. In Eastern traditions like China or Japan, lilies were similarly connected to concepts of good fortune in marriage and familial happiness. The ‘hundred years of union’ motif likely stems from East Asian cultural ideals that value longevity and harmonious relationships. Although specific documentation is limited, lilies’ integration into wedding customs has been a cross-cultural tradition emphasizing positive omens for marital life.

Modern Relevance

Today, lilies remain a popular wedding flower across cultures, appearing in both Western ceremonies and Eastern nuptial traditions. Florists, bridal blogs, and wedding planners often recommend lilies for their elegance and symbolic weight. In Asian cultures, particularly in China, lilies (百合, bǎihé) are a homophone for ‘union for a hundred years,’ reinforcing their continued use in weddings to bestow long-lasting happiness. Social media platforms such as Pinterest and TikTok frequently highlight lilies in wedding inspiration posts, further cementing their association with love and commitment in contemporary wedding aesthetics. While not all modern couples are aware of the superstition, the symbolic value still shapes consumer behavior and floral preferences.

Sources

Oxford Dictionary of Superstitions by Iona Opie and Moira Tatem

Quick Facts

Historical Period

Requires further research

Practice Type

Symbolic Gesture

Classification

Good Luck Superstition

Related Superstitions

Related Articles

Scroll to Top