Wedding traditions

Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue and a copper penny in your shoe!

Why a wedding ring?

As far back as literature documents weddings, the wedding ring has been in evidence. Some believe the wedding ring was the first element of wedding traditions. The circular shape of the wedding ring symbolizes never-ending love. Third finger, left hand? It is believed that the vein in the third finger of the left hand runs directly to the heart.

Why does the bride wear a veil?

Many moons ago it was believed that a veil would protect the bride from evil spirits. Today the white veil is a symbol of modesty and virginity.

Why does the bride wear white?

In Colonial times a bride often wore her "Sunday best" to her wedding. It was not until the 1840's, when Queen Victoria was married in a white wedding gown, that "white gowns" became the rage... White is also a symbol of affluence, purity, joy and virginity. Today, brides can choose many shades of white, from bright white to champagne.

Why carry flowers?

Historically, flowers & herbs have played a significant role in the attraction of "good" and/or the warding off of "evil". Greeks used ivy for the sign of lasting love. Today, pretty wedding flowers convey a message of fertility and enduring love and romance.

Why something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue?

To insure a happy and lasting marriage, a bride should carry something old from someone who has been married for a long time and something new, to carry into her new life. Something borrowed, "borrowed happiness", something blue, "the colour blue has been associated with purity and modesty". A penny in your shoe, place a penny in your shoe to bring good fortune and protection against want.

Why is a white runner used?

The white runner, signifies a pure pathway into happiness. Rose petals in the bride's path lead her to a sweet and plentiful future.

Why is the bride given away?

In days of old, the bride was literally given to the groom in an arranged marriage. Today "giving away" is seen as symbolic of her parent's support for her union.

Why is the ceremony sealed with a kiss?

Occurring at the end of the ceremony, the kiss announces a new union and married status.

Why is there a wedding cake?

It is a symbol of good luck and fertility, cake being exchanged is to show loyalty and devotion to one another.

What is a groom's cake?

A groom's cake is often a rich dark cake or a cake in the groom's favourite colour, sport or hobby. The groom's cake is a way to share the couple's good fortune and the sweetness of married life.

Why toast at a reception?

Toasting represents the collective best wishes of friends & family. Toasts may be offered with any beverage, but champagne is a wedding favourite... Raising a glass together is a way for everyone to share in wishing wellness & happiness to the newlyweds.

Why are there wedding favours?

The bride and groom are considered to be lucky, as is anything they touch. Wedding favours are a way for the bride and groom to thank their guests for sharing in their happiness and to symbolically pass on their "good luck".

Why is the bouquet tossed?

The custom of tossing the bouquet is the modern day alternative to the old tradition of the "tearing of the wedding dress"... In days gone by, single ladies would tear a piece of the brides dress for good luck. One can only imagine the fate of the brides gown at a large gathering! Thus the tossing of the bouquet is the modern alternative that allows the bride's gown to remain intact. It should not be forgotten that the lady who catches the bouquet is the next woman to be married.

Why is the garter tossed?

Like the bouquet toss, the garter toss is also a modern alternative to the less than savory tradition of old. In the old days, guest would follow the newlyweds to their room and wait for them to undress then take their stockings and toss them at the bride & groom. The first male to hit the bride or groom with their stocking would be lucky and the next to marry. Thus the garter toss... The gentleman who catches the garter would be next to wed.

Why are shoes attached to the car?

Shoes represented power. Shoes signify the creation of a new family unit. Shoes and cans were attached to the bumper of a car to cause a noisy clatter intended to drive off evil spirits.

Why is the bride carried over the threshold?

It was believed that evil spirits hovered at the threshold of the home the newlyweds would enter. The bride was lifted over the entrance to keep the evil spirits from entering through her feet.

Why throw rice?

Rice and wheat symbolize fertility, prosperity, and bounty. Today guests throw rose petals, potpourri, wheat, millet seed and birdseed. Showering the newlyweds in bubbles or releasing birds, butterflies and ringing of bells replace rice today.