The Church Ladies have different takes on chapel veils. Some wear them always, others only at the Extraordinary Form, and some fall in between on the chapel veil spectrum. But we all agree that every Church Lady needs a veil for her wedding (and First Communions, for those Church Ladies in training). In fact, rumor has it a certain Church Lady was denied the opportunity to wear a veil at her First Communion, and will be seizing the day at her upcoming wedding...Permit me to introduce Halo Works, and its founder, the delightful Maureen. From First Communions to Quinces to weddings and funerals, Maureen has veils for every occasion. There is even an easy wear category for the mantilla inept (like me, who ends up with a chapel bandanna by the end of Mass). Maureen's veils are beautifully made- some even come from Spain! If you don't see quite what you are looking for, Maureen will be happy to design a custom wedding veil (as she is for me). She searched tirelessly to find samples that would match my ivory dress. Halo Works also stocks other Catholic goods and gifts.
The wedding veil is more than an accessory; it has deep religious significance:
The next morning finds mother and daughter for the last time in their intimate closeness. Now I assist the bride to put on her bridal gown and to fasten the veil to her hair. Then she kneels down while the bridal wreath made of fresh white flowers is placed over the veil, at which time the solemn words are said "Receive here this symbol of your virginity which I have helped you to keep intact that you may give it unspotted to your husband as your greatest gift," to which the daughter answers with a heartfelt, "Thank you. Praised be God." This is always a moment of deep emotion. After the last long embrace I sign the forehead of my daughter with the sign of the Cross and then lead her downstairs, where the procession is already formed.
[Maria Trapp, Around the Year]
Also consider this wedding tradition:
Polish brides wear a wreath of flowers and herbs with their veil, which afterwards is saved in the hope chest. When virginity gives way to motherhood, the dried wreath is crumbled in the baby's bath, emphasizing the bond between marriage and family.
[Catholic and Loving It]
I've bought a lot of veils from Haloworks. Ebay is also a good sources. There is a lady in Alabama who makes terrific ones. I refuse to restrict myself to black or white veils and this lady has em in a wide range of colors. I'm very fond of my shocking pink one.
ReplyDeleteHere is an interesting sermon I posted on my blog regarding the wearing of veils at Mass. Thought you might find it interesting. Pax tecum! http://ewebster01.blogspot.com/2007/10/head-coverings.html
ReplyDeletethanks! my daughters have been asking when I would get them veils. apparently, this is dads job in neo-trad circles.
ReplyDeleteYou mention a younger Church Lady-in-Training. But I was under the impression that you are a young lady also. (?)
ReplyDelete