The tradition of giving the bride a wooden spoon ( "love spoon," or "lovespoon") is an old Welch wedding custom. The custom is still practiced today, but began centuries ago at a time when Welshmen spent much of their time away at sea. Separated from their beloved ones, they spent their free time carving lovespoons.

If a man wants to marry a woman, as a symbol of engagement, in place of a ring he offers her a decorated wooden spoon. The decoration and designs carved on the spoon are sometimes quite elaborate. Each carving carries its own interesting symbolism. A heart means "I love you. A key means "You hold the key to my heart." A wheel means "I will work hard for you," and "a bell means "Let's get married." The links or beads that the prospective groom puts on the spoon tells his beloved the number of children that he wishes to have with her.

A wooden spoon probably is the utensil of choice because it was considered the most useful implement that a new bride would use in her kitchen, presumably to help her cook the very best meals she could for her new husband, and, at some time in the future, for their family.

Albeit not a very well known custom, it is interesting to note that this custom is where the word "spooning" originated. Although not used in modern day, the word means to behave in an amorous way and refers to a sentimental lover.