Croatian Ružmarin: Wedding Rosemary and Ribbons

Ružmarin is Croatian for rosemary. At many Croatian weddings a small sprig is pinned to each guest, — a custom traditionally associated with love, loyalty, remembrance and celebration.

As with most wedding customs, the details vary between regions and families — when the pins are given, who gives them and how they are tied.

In many families, guests receive their rosemary as they arrive — at the house, the church or the reception. In many Croatian families the pins are traditionally prepared by family members or loved ones in the days before the wedding, which becomes a small celebration of its own.

The ribbon is what holds each sprig together, and it is also where couples add their own touch. Red, white and blue is a common decorative choice, echoing the Croatian colours, but it is not a requirement — families choose whatever feels right for their day.

Some families tie every bow by hand from a roll of ribbon; others prefer pre-tied bows, so all that is left is to add fresh rosemary and a pin.