Saturday, February 20, 2010

Wedding Traditions - Something Old, Something New....

We have found that most of our brides still follow this tradition, even to the point of the last minute before walking the aisle, asking friends and family to find items for her to wear quickly.

Something old, something new
Something borrowed, something blue
And a silver sixpence in her shoe
 
Since this tradition has so many aspects of being English, many sources believe that this tradition began during the Victorian Age. All the items in the poem are meant to bring good luck to the bride during her marriage.
 
A sixpence is a coin that was minted in Britain between 1551 to 1967. This coin is put in the bride's left shoe. This is to represent wealth and financial security during the marriage. Since sixpences can somethings be hard to find now, wedding retailers sell "modern" sixpences for bride's to wear.
 
"Something old" represents the bride's past and the continuation into the future. The item can be something antique, an heirloom item, or an object that is sentimentall to the bride.
 
"Something new" represents hope for the bride's future life with her groom. Items such as a new lipstick, new jewelry, or a new haircut are some items to use for good luck. 
 
"Something borrowed" usually comes from a family member or friend who has experienced many years of happiness in their marriage. This good fortune is meant to carry over to the new bride. The borrowed item reminds the bride that she can count on this family member or friend in the future. This item will be returned to the owner after the wedding day.
 
Wearing something blue has long since been believed to be the color symbolizing love, modesty, and fidelty. Prior to the 19th century, brides' gowns were often blue. They followed the proverbs of "Marry in blue; lover be true." In Christianity, the Virgin Mary is often depicted in blue.
 
For other wedding traditions, check our entries on our blog. For other wedding photos or portraits, go to our website at: http://www.miller-photo.com/. You can, also, communicate with us on our Facebook page at: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Richmond-VA/Miller-Photography-Inc/172936215623

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