Wedding Traditions: Old! New! Borrowed! Blue!

Have you ever wondered why the bride stands to the left of the groom, or why she tosses her bouquet? Wedding traditions are often traced back to their roots and can have multiple explanations.  Today, let's take a look at one that dates back to the Victorian era and still stands with current brides.

"Something old" represents the bride's link to her family and the past. The symbol of continuity, the bride may choose to wear a piece of family jewelry, a hankerchief or her mother or grandmother's wedding gown.

"Something new" represents hope for good fortune and success in the future. The bride often chooses the wedding gown to represent the new item. Wearing a new item symbolizes that you and your husband are creating a new union that will endure forever.

"Something borrowed" usually comes from a happily married woman and is thought to lend some of her good fortune and joy to the new bride. Remember it's borrowed so it must be returned afterwards and this can also be a piece of jewelry.

"Something blue" is a symbol of love, fidelity, and purity of the bride. Often the garter but you can also wear blue shoes if you're bold enough.

As I always say, enjoy the process!  Brides have been honoring this tradition for centures and it can also be an opportunity to show admiration for some really special people in your life on this your special day.


"Love Without End"
Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Go GREEN!!!

It is becoming more and more popular for couples to draw on their cultural and ethnic backgrounds and to include those traditions and customs into their weddings. This also holds true for couples and families of Irish descent.  Their rich cultural heritage adds color and flavor to a wedding, making it truly a special event.

 

* Lucky horseshoe. Irish brides used to carry a real horseshoe for good luck. (Turned up so the luck won't run out). You can get porcelain horseshoes which most Irish brides carry these days, or one made of fabric which is worn on the wrist.

 

* Make-up bells. The chime of bells is thought to keep evil spirits away, restore harmony if a couple is fighting, and also remind a couple of their wedding vows. Giving a bell as a gift has become an Irish tradition. You could also have your greeters hand out tiny bells to your guests to ring as you process. (You might want to let them know when they're supposed to be rung - perhaps mention it in your program along with an explanation of the custom). Guests could also ring their little bells at the reception in lieu of clinking glasses.

* When leaving the church, someone must throw an old shoe over the bride's head so she will have good luck

 "Love Without End"

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.