Kissing balls, also known as Pomander Balls, are decorative spheres made of materials such as flowers, foliage, ribbons and other trimmings, which have been used as ornaments for centuries. They are most commonly seen in weddings, where the couple traditionally use them as a wedding favor or decor.
Kissing balls are often used as decorations for christenings and other special occasions such as proms, anniversaries and graduations. Historical references to the kissing ball go back to the Middle Ages, when such decorations were placed in churches, manor homes and generally in places of importance.
Kissing balls hold many symbolic meanings. They represent unity and togetherness, as two people can come together beneath a round decoration. Whether used for a wedding or another occasion, a kissing ball is a reminder of the beauty and joy of such special festivities.
In addition, they can be used to express feelings of love and affection, as a person can give a kissing ball as a gift to their beloved. Finally, some people use kissing balls as good luck charms, believing that the ball brings good luck and protection to all who come beneath it.
No matter what the occasion is, kissing balls continue to be a popular and meaningful decor item. They provide a romantic and beautiful way to celebrate the union of two people or to honor a significant event.
Where do you hang a kissing ball?
Kissing balls, also known as Pomander or wedding balls, are a beautiful and traditional decoration often used in weddings. They can be hung practically anywhere to add a beautiful, eye-catching touch – from stairwells to arches to ceilings.
Most commonly, they are hung from the ceiling in the reception area or ceremony hall. In this case, they will often be hung above the dance floor or in the middle of the room. They can also be hung over the head table, altar or arch.
Stairwells are another popular area to hang a kissing ball. They will also look great hung from a chandelier or ceiling beam. If the hall or room has tall, thin windows, these can also be a great area to hang a kissing ball.
Finally, you can also hang them from an inexpensive backdrop or from the back of a pew to add an extra bit of flair to a ceremony.
What is the symbolism of mistletoe and the kissing ball?
Mistletoe has been used since ancient times as a symbol of peace, love, and friendship. The tradition of hanging a kissing ball of mistletoe and kissing under it originated in 18th century England. According to folklore, the leaves of the mistletoe contained the power of fertility and vitality, as well as happiness and health.
Therefore, as a symbol of good luck and well-wishes, couples embraced and kissed under the mistletoe. As a result, it came to represent a siren’s call of romance and love.
The kissing ball itself is often made of small pieces of mistletoe clustered together to form a large ball. Its size and shape, reminiscent of a heart shape, further symbolizes affection and love. In addition, the colors of the mistletoe, usually green or white, represent new beginnings and a fresh start in relationships.
Not only is mistletoe an expression of love and romance, but it can be seen as a sign of harmony and unity. This symbolism is often seen in the holidays, when families come together and celebrate under the blessing of the mistletoe.
What is a kissing ball at a wedding?
A kissing ball is a decoration and a fun way for couples to share a moment during a wedding. It is shaped like a large round ball with flowers, ribbons, and feathers hanging down. Usually, the bride and groom stand right next to the kissing ball, and guests are asked to line up to approach the ball and kiss them.
This symbolic gesture of love and commitment enhances the romantic atmosphere of the wedding and allows the newlyweds to connect with each other and all of their guests. Additionally, the kissing ball adds a touch of beauty to the wedding with its lush greenery and colorful decorations.
All in all, a kissing ball adds so much joy and beauty to a wedding and is a ritual that couples will never forget.
How many flowers do you use for a kissing ball?
The number of flowers used to create a kissing ball will vary depending on the size of the kissing ball you are making and the type of flowers you are using. Generally, a medium-sized kissing ball requires between 12 and 20 flowers.
Smaller kissing balls may need as few as 5-7 flowers and larger ones may need up to 25 or 30 flowers. It is best to pick flowers with strong stems, like roses or peonies, as you will need to attach them to a wire form that will serve as the base of the kissing ball.
If you are using a mix of flowers, you may need more to adequately cover the surface of the kissing ball. Ultimately, the number of flowers you use will depend on the desired size and look of the finished product.
How do you make a wedding kissing ball?
Making a wedding kissing ball is a fairly easy and fun DIY project that can give a room a romantic and elegant touch. The main supplies you will need are florist foam, ribbon, artificial flowers, scissors, and a hot glue gun.
To begin, cut the florist foam into a round shape that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the ribbon. Hot glue the ribbon to the florist foam and make sure the ribbon is securely attached. Then, cut the stems off of the artificial flowers and hot glue them onto the florist foam within the ribbon.
Make sure to evenly space out the flowers and leave enough room for the ribbon to hang.
Once the kissing ball is full of flowers, wrap a piece of ribbon around the base of the ball and tie it into a neat bow. Hang the kissing ball from a hook or place it on a display table, and you’re done.
Wedding kissing balls make a lovely decoration for any event, such as a bridal shower or wedding reception. With a little creativity, you can create beautiful kissing balls that will be remembered and admired by all.
Where did kissing balls originate?
Kissing balls, otherwise known as Pomander Balls, have been around since ancient times. Kissing balls are sphere-shaped decorations made of flowers, herbs, or other fragrant materials and can be hung anywhere in the home for decoration.
They have a long, fascinating history and were originally used for practical and spiritual purposes.
Kissing balls have their origins in Ancient Rome. The Romans would create large versions to adorn their homes and also used fragrant balls as offerings in temples to honor their gods and goddesses. In the Middle Ages, these decorations were a popular choice among brides to wear in their hair.
The kissing ball as we know it today was first developed in England during the 1500s. The earliest versions were usually filled with aromatic herbs and flowers or spices, and were often hung in doorways.
People would pass through the doorway and receive a kiss while they were close to the kissing ball. This tradition would eventually evolve into the custom of kissing under mistletoe.
Kissing balls are now seen more as a decoration, and modern versions can be made from almost anything. Decorative items like ribbons, pearls, and buttons can be added to the ball for a unique touch. Many contemporary artisans create kissing balls for sale, and couples even hang them at their weddings to symbolize their love for one another.
How do you make a large centerpiece?
To make a large centerpiece for a dining room table, start by gathering the materials you will need. You will want to find a centerpiece bowl, an anchor piece such as a pillar candle, and a selection of greenery such as eucalyptus and magnolia leaves.
You will also need floral foam, floral wire, and florist’s scissors. Next, you will need to assemble and fill your large centerpiece bowl. Begin by soaking the floral foam and placing it in the center of the bowl.
Secure the foam with floral wire if necessary. Place the anchor piece in the center of the foam; you can use the wire to secure this in the bowl as well. Finally, begin to assemble your greenery pieces.
Start by placing the larger pieces along the sides and front of the bowl, making sure to fill in any gaps. Once the larger pieces are in place, fill in the gaps with smaller pieces of foliage. You can finish off the arrangement by adding a few stems of colorful flowers.
To keep your centerpiece looking fresh, trim the foliage and change the water every two to three days.
How did kissing under mistletoe come about?
The origin of kissing under the mistletoe is not entirely clear, but it likely dates back hundreds of years and it’s believed to have its roots in Scandinavia and Northern Europe. One of the oldest known accounts of this practice can be found in “The Youthful Exploits of Fionn” an ancient Irish poem from the 13th century which speaks of kissing beneath the leaves of mistletoe.
It is also believed that the Norse goddess Frigg, wife of Odin and goddess of love, used mistletoe in songs and dances related to fertility and love, which may explain the origin of the custom of kissing under the mistletoe.
Another potential origin story dates back to the 16th century when it was believed that the liquid found in mistletoe berries had magical powers, and that mistletoe was a symbol of love and peace. If a battle broke out between two families or factions, it was thought that anyone standing beneath the mistletoe was safe, and this idea became a tradition and a symbol of love in which two people would kiss and be reconciled.
The popularity of this tradition expanded into Britain in the 18th and 19th centuries, and the custom of kissing underneath the mistletoe enjoyed great success, with Europeans and Americans embracing this fun and romantic tradition.
To this day, mistletoe remains a beloved symbol of the holidays, with people around the world participating in the custom of smooching underneath the mistletoe.