Weddings Superstitions
Weddings Superstitions & Traditions
Weddings are a time of joy, celebration and hope for the future. But they also come with many long-standing superstitions and traditions that have been passed down through generations. From something old to something blue, these wedding superstitions can bring good luck to the happy couple on their special day. As a wedding photographer, I’ve seen many couples embrace these customs in order to ensure their marriage is blessed with prosperity and happiness. In this blog post, I will explore some of the most popular wedding superstitions – from bouquet tossing to wearing pearls – so you can make sure your big day is filled with good fortune!
Something old, borrowed and new
Wedding traditions are abundant, but one stands out for its mystery and charm: something old, something borrowed, something new. But where did this come from, and why is it such a big deal for the bride and groom? Believe it or not, the origins of this popular practice stem from the Victorian era when superstitions reigned supreme. Symbolising continuity, borrowed items from happily married women represented a successful union, while something new represented fortune and good luck. Lastly, something old symbolised a connection to the past and the bride’s family. Whether you’re an avid believer or don’t take much stock in superstitions, incorporating something old, something new, and something borrowed is an incredible way to honour tradition and add a touch of sparkle and fun to your special day.
- Six Pence in your Shoe
Wedding traditions are often filled with superstitions and symbolisms that are meant to bring good luck to the newlyweds. One of the most well-known traditions is the " silver sixpence in your shoe." It was believed that placing the coin in the bride's shoe would bring financial prosperity and ward off any bad luck. Nowadays, it would take quite a bit of effort to source a six-pence, so go grab yourself about 50p (hey, it's a silver coin, isn't it?!)
But let's not forget about the potentially expensive shoe that the coin might have to fit in. After all, while we want to avoid an unlucky marriage, we certainly wouldn't to ruin your Louboutins!
Jumping The Broom: An African tradition
The significance of jumping the broom in African culture has gained popularity as a symbolic tradition in modern-day wedding ceremonies. Beyond its origin during the days of slavery, jumping the broom is now recognized as a beautiful and meaningful ritual that couples incorporate into their celebration of love. As newlyweds jump over the broom, they sweep away any negativity from their past and begin a new life together. It's a fun and lighthearted tradition that adds a touch of charm to any wedding ceremony, reminding us of the importance of starting fresh with a positive outlook on life.
Bouquet Tossing: Throwing of bouquet back over one's shoulder at the reception - whoever catches it will be next to marry!
Wedding traditions have been passed down through generations, and the bouquet toss is one that many couples still incorporate into their special day. The act of throwing the bouquet back over one's shoulder is a lighthearted moment that adds joy and excitement to the reception. According to folklore, the woman who catches the bouquet will be the next one to walk down the aisle. While some may dismiss it as mere superstition, others embrace the tradition in the hopes of being the lucky one to catch the coveted bouquet. Regardless of personal beliefs, the bouquet toss remains a beloved and entertaining aspect of many weddings.
Wearing Pearls On Your Wedding Day:
On your wedding day, there are plenty of traditions you might choose to follow - and one of them is wearing pearls. But where does this tradition come from, and what does it really mean? Some suggest that pearls are a symbol of purity, making them the perfect choice for a bride who wants to signify her love and commitment. On the other hand, others argue that pearls look like tears - which could mean you're in for a tear-free wedding if you choose to wear them! Of course, there are also those who believe that wearing pearls on your wedding day is simply bad luck. So who should you believe when it comes to this fascinating tradition? Ultimately, the choice is yours - and as long as you feel beautiful and confident on your big day, there's no wrong answer.
The Bride's Garter
Wedding traditions are some of the most enduring and charming legacies a couple can have as they embark on the journey of marriage. And one of the most whimsical and playful traditions surrounds the garter – a simple piece of fabric that has captivated brides for decades. As the story goes, brides wore a garter to symbolize their virginity, which was said to be good luck for the couple. But over the years, the garter has become more of a playful tradition, with brides tossing the coveted accessory (garter toss) to their single friends during the reception. The garter has evolved from a symbol of honour to a fun and flirtatious part of the wedding day – a memory that couples and their guests will cherish for years to come.
Holding a bouquet
For centuries, brides have carried a bouquet on their wedding day. Some may think it's just a pretty accessory, but there are deeper meanings behind this tradition. One reason is to ward off any lurking evil spirits that may try to disrupt the happy occasion. Another is that the bouquet represents the personality of the bride herself, as she carefully chooses the flowers and arrangement that best reflect her style and taste. And for a less romantic reason, some believe that the bouquet was actually used to mask any unpleasant odours that the bride may have been carrying. Regardless of the reason, the sight of a blushing bride holding a beautiful bouquet always adds a touch of elegance and tradition to any wedding ceremony. And when the church bells ring, signalling the start of a new journey for the newlyweds, the bouquet becomes a symbol of love, hope, and joy for the years to come.
Wearing a White Wedding Dress
Preparing for a wedding is a flurry of decisions about the location, catering, music, and attire. One of the iconic choices for the bride is her dress, but why does it typically come in only one hue? The tradition of wearing white dates back to the 19th century and symbolizes the bride's purity and innocence. And while these values may have evolved, the aesthetic appeal of a white dress has remained. There's something elegant and timeless about this colour that allows the bride to shine amid the other details of the day. So, while there may be more variety in styles and fabrics today, the allure of the white bridal gown continues to be a cornerstone of wedding fashion.
Rain on your wedding Day
Rain on your wedding day is a classic sign of good luck, according to English folklore. It is said that the rain will bless the marriage with fertility and prosperity. While it may dampen the mood, it's important to remember that love is not weather-dependent. So, embrace the rain and make some memories. Grab some colourful umbrellas, throw on some rain boots, and take some stunning photos in the rain. Make the best out of a wet situation, and your guests will surely love your fun-loving spirit. Just remember, with love and happiness all around, nothing can rain on your parade.
The Giving of Rings
The exchanging of wedding rings is a beloved tradition that dates back centuries. While the engagement ring is typically given when the proposal is made, the wedding ring symbolises the eternal bond between the couple. It's a token of love that represents the commitment and promise of a lifetime together. From the simplest band to the most extravagant diamond, the giving of rings is one of the most cherished moments in any wedding ceremony. So, whether you choose a classic gold band or a unique custom design, your wedding ring will be a constant reminder of the love and devotion shared between you and your partner.
The Cake Cutting
The fascinating journey of the wedding cake began in Ancient Rome, where a delightful tradition involved breaking bread over the bride's head as a symbol of fertility and good fortune. Fast forward to medieval England, and guests would bring small cakes or pastries to a wedding, stacking them up to create a tower. The couple's challenge? To share a kiss over this sweet tower without knocking it over – success meant luck was on their side!
As time went on, the wedding cake continued to transform. In the 17th century, French bakers took it to another level by crafting elaborate, multi-tiered masterpieces adorned with intricate sugar decorations. This laid the groundwork for the modern wedding cake we know and love today. And let's not forget the Victorian era, when Queen Victoria's own wedding cake shone with white icing, dubbed "royal icing." This regal touch popularized white icing as a symbol of purity and wealth, making it a timeless choice for couples everywhere.
So, next time you marvel at a stunning wedding cake, remember the rich history behind this delicious tradition!
The Wedding Veil
The wedding veil – it's been around for ages, right up there with the bride's gown as a must-have accessory for the big day. But have you ever wondered where this whimsical piece of fabric actually comes from? Well, buckle up, because we're diving into the enchanting world of veils!
Turns out, veils have popped up in all sorts of cultures and religions, each putting its own unique spin on its meaning. In some places, it's all about modesty and showing that the bride is super committed to her future spouse. In others, it's like a magical shield to keep those pesky evil spirits from crashing the party and messing with the bride's happiness.
From my point of view, I've noticed that veils seem to be making fewer appearances these days, as more and more brides choose to break away from tradition and focus on what truly makes them happy. It's inspiring to see brides embracing their individuality and creating their own special wedding day memories!
Not seeing each other before the ceremony
Wedding traditions vary from culture to culture, and one of the most popular and romantic traditions is the wedding superstition that the couple should not see each other before the ceremony.
Of course, this old wives' tale will tell you it's bad luck, and it's meant to protect the couple from a last-minute change of heart. But there are also some practical reasons that have kept this tradition alive throughout the centuries. For instance, when couples see each other before the ceremony, it can oftentimes result in tears or emotional reactions that can become distracting during the wedding.
While this beautiful and longstanding tradition speaks to the anticipation and excitement of the big day, many people are embracing the opportunity for a "first look" with their significant other before the ceremony. This trend, popular in American weddings, allows for a private and intimate moment before the hustle and bustle of the day begins. As a photographer in the wedding industry, I love seeing couples make their own unique choices and add a personal touch to their special day. It's exciting to witness how wedding traditions both old and new are being honoured and adapted by couples all over the world.
Carry the bride over the threshold
Ah, the old tradition of carrying the bride over the threshold - it's a tale as ancient as time itself. Back in the day, Romans believed that evil spirits could curse a bride through the soles of her feet, and so was born this seemingly odd but surprisingly practical wedding custom. Though the idea of malevolent spirits may seem a tad far-fetched now, there's no denying that this custom still has its charms. After all, who couldn't resist a bit of good luck when it comes to starting off a happy marriage? So, if you're tying the knot soon, don't be afraid to embrace this quirky tradition - after all, a happy marriage can always use a bit of extra good fortune!
If it rains on your wedding day
No matter how much planning is involved in a wedding, one thing is for certain: you can never predict the weather. If the big day arrives and it's pouring down with rain, the bride and groom are often disheartened, and the wedding guests are getting drenched. But, did you know that rain on your wedding day is actually good luck? According to tradition, rain is a symbol of fertility, cleansing, unity, and renewal. The idea is that a wet knot is harder to untie, so if it rains on your wedding day, it symbolises a long-lasting, unbreakable, and strong marriage. So, the next time the weather doesn't go according to plan on a wedding day, remember that there's always a positive spin.
Conclusion
Get ready for a blast from the past! From ancient Rome to Victorian times, wedding superstitions and traditions have been sprinkled with good luck charms that are still kicking today. Couples nowadays are putting their own spin on these classic rituals, turning them into personalized love stories that'll make everyone go "aww."
So, whether you're hunting for that extra pinch of good fortune or just want to banish any evil spirits lurking, why not take a cue from history? Embrace those time-honoured traditions and weave them into your very own wedding tale. Trust us, it's like adding a secret ingredient to your love potion!
Here's to a fabulously fun wedding day filled with love, laughter, and a dash of tradition!
who is Jordan Fox?
Introducing Jordan Fox Photography, a seasoned wedding photographer with over 10 years of experience. Jordan focuses on capturing special moments for couples, guiding them through their wedding day to ensure they're relaxed and stress-free. With Jordan's expertise, you can look forward to beautiful wedding photos that will be treasured for years to come. Have you got questions about your wedding? Get in touch today.
Professional wedding photographer, lover of beautiful home decor, boujie candles and Macdonald’s fries!
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