Why does the bride throw her bouquet on the big day? Why do we wear something borrowed, something blue? Here, we explain some of the many timeless wedding traditions that couples may include on their wedding day.
THE DOWN-ON-ONE-KNEE PROPOSAL?
The exact origin of this tradition is speculative. However, in the Middle Ages, knights and those who had to display deference to their Lords and Masters, often knelt on one knee. It was in this way many were honoured or knighted. It displayed a keen sense of reverence for the person before whom one knelt and it demonstrated to those there present, that a commitment to the maintenance of this relationship was inferred. In asking for ‘the hand in marriage,’ this way, it was a sign of respect, honour and eventually, love. Proposals have been happening this way for a very long time! Really romantic.
ON THE WEDDING DAY
Something Old, Something New
Something Borrowed, Something Blue…
Generally regarded as being symbols of good luck for the Bride (and therefore the Groom), not many know the reasons behind having the objects in the saying and how they apply to modern weddings.
While lots of couples uphold this custom, many don’t see it as relevant anymore but would you take the chance of risking bad luck?
Originally an old Victorian rhyme, the saying does include specifics that may require some attention.
Something Old…
This represents the link with the bride’s family and the past. It highlights long family lines and heritage. The idea of passing a token of heritage on to the new bride, maintains the link to history and extends its line. Often brides choose to wear family jewellery or carry something special that belongs to their mother or grandmothers.
Something New…
This part of the rhyme represents good fortune and success in the bride’s new life. The wedding dress often symbolises the new item, or perhaps the bride’s shoes or wedding band.
Something Borrowed…
Borrowing something special from a loved one reminds the bride that her family and friends will always be there for her. She will never be in need or wanting. It’s a very personal thing and can bring great comfort to both the bride and the groom. The borrowed object might be something small, such as a lace handkerchief or a piece of jewellery from someone close.
Wearing a Garter…
Wearing a garter has its roots in the belief that anything the bride wore would bring good luck. Traditionally, brides wore two garters, one to toss and the other to keep as a cherished memento. The garter toss is a playful ritual thought to bring good fortune to the lucky recipient. This custom also symbolises faithfulness and loyalty.
Something Blue…
Something blue reflects the color of purity and love, meant to ward away any unwanted attention from evil. Traditionally worn under the dress, there are so many options now from jewelry to clothing, to decor, to nail color.
WEDDING CHARMS & HORSESHOES
Traditionally the bride would be presented with a decorated horseshoe by the female members of the family, particularly children. Having a child hand over the horseshoe to the bride is said to ensure her fertility. In modern times, the horseshoe and wedding keepsakes with handwritten messages attached, have simply come to be a token of good luck given to the bride as she is greeted with well wishes after the ceremony.
A horseshoe is sought to fill the wedding day with meaning and omens of good fortune. A horseshoe motif symbolises luck, so gifting the bride & groom one is seen to be a way of bringing them good luck and fortune for the duration of their lives together.
Remember, horseshoes have to be placed correctly, in whatever storage or display item they adorn. The ends of the horseshoe have to be facing upwards or the good luck will drain away.
WHY DOES THE BRIDE WEAR A VEIL?
Wearing a veil is said to go back to Ancient Roman times where it represented the ‘unveiling’ of a woman who had been kept safe, chaste and pure. From medieval times a veil would hide the bride’s beauty, so she wouldn’t be stolen away and ward off evil spirits who were also said to make off with beauty or curse the life of the new bride.
These days not all brides chose to wear a veil. The overall look often depends on the style of gown or the type of wedding, but if you’re a romantic at heart, the removal of the veil by the groom once the ceremony is complete, is a most romantic moment – and followed by the kiss, yes just perfect.
WHY DOES THE BRIDE THROW HER BOUQUET?
The wedding bouquet toss is a tradition that dates back to the 1300s in England. The bride tosses her bouquet to unmarried women during the wedding reception and whoever catches it is said to be the next in line to wed. The bridal bouquet toss meaning is symbolic of fertility and good luckWhatever the meaning, in modern times it’s still a fun tradition to throw the bouquet if you chose to. Some brides get a second bouquet for this distinct purpose, opting to keep their own for sentimental reasons.
Imagery // Morgan Lee Photography / Rohit Jhawar Photography // Words written by Robyn Bull