On my many travels around the Wedding world, I have learnt about traditions and myths related to each Bride’s magical day.  As Rainbow Club’s Fairy Godmum, my interest fell upon an old tradition, where placing a silver Sixpence in the Bride-to-be’s shoes will wish her wealth, both financially and in well being and happiness. Dating back to the Victorian tradition of ‘Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue’, this whimsical rhyme originally ended with the line ‘and a Silver Sixpence in her shoe’, which encouraged me to look into Wedding traditions a little further. 

‘Something old’ is chosen to represent the bride’s family and history, which is often chosen in the form of a piece of family jewellery or even, in some instances, the bride wearing her Mother or Grandmother’s Wedding dress.

‘Something new’ means good fortune and success for the future of the Bride in her new life.  Most of the time a bride’s ‘something new’ is her Wedding dress or shoes, however a gift from her parents is also used.

‘Something borrowed’ symbolises the bride’s friends and family.  This is to remind her that they will always be there for her in troubled times, to lend a helping hand.  Tradition shows a lace handkerchief can represent this, however a necklace or bracelet from your family can be a modern alternative.

‘Something blue’ dates back to Biblical times, which is said to represent loyalty, faithfulness and purity.  Usually, the bride’s garter is used as her ‘something blue’ however, with our fabulous Colour Studio, why not use your shoes

There are other traditions that are incorporated in the big day; some better known than others.  I have listed just a few that interested me, and I hope may give you some ideas for your Wedding!

• The story of your wedding veil has more to it than you think.  It is said that the veil hides the beauty of the bride and wards off evil spirits.  Brides in arranged marriages may also wear a veil to cover her face until the groom has committed to their marriage.
• There is even a tradition for where to stand, once at the altar.  Tradition states that the bride stands on the left of the groom during the ceremony, to allow his sword arm to be ready, to fight off any other suitors who may want her as their bride.
• A tradition, which is new to me, is that of the time of day you say your Wedding vows.  It is said to be good luck if you exchange your vows as the clock’s minute hand is facing upwards, towards heaven, as God can then hear you as you speak.
• Giving gifts to your friends and family, in the form of Favours, has been a tradition for hundreds of years.  There are lots of fabulous and original ideas for this, however the tradition is to give five sugar coated almonds to each guest to symbolise health, wealth, fertility, happiness and a long life.

Well, I’m off now to help some brides in need, but I hope these little gems of information can either help you with your big day, or have at least given you an entertaining read. 

 Lots of Love and Wedded bliss.

XXX