Have you ever wondered the meaning behind “Something old, something, new borrowed, and something blue?” Most bride-to-be’s do not actually know the meaning behind this this wedding tradition, and neither do the people responsible for making sure she has these items (prior to my wedding I asked several women, married and single, and no one really had an answer. So I did my own research). The closer a bride gets to her wedding, the more everyone will ask, “Do you have your something blue?” This question will be asked often, but very few, if any, will actually know there is more to it than simply having something blue.
Just like most of the rituals in the U.S., these particular traditional wedding gift ideas were inherited from an Olde English rhyme, “Something Olde, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue, A Sixpence in your Shoe.” Within our own family units, we have traditions that we recognize often, but over the years the meaning and significance is lost and we simply go through the motions because that is what we were taught. For hundreds of years brides have looked forward to receiving these wedding day gifts, and over time we have lost the “Why”.
(Katherina Krafts boxes can be found on Etsy)
The “Something Old” brings a continuation of good luck from the past into your present; the “Something New” represents your optimism for the future; the “Something Borrowed” stands for the happiness you would like to borrow from those around you, and the “Something Blue” represents purity, love, and fidelity. The “Sixpence”, which we obviously do not have anymore, is the wish for prosperity and good fortune (maybe you can glue a nickel and penny on your shoes).
On top of these well-known traditions, there are family traditions. Over the years, I have heard of brides that carry a handkerchief that has been used for generations; patches that are made from several dress swatches worn by family members being sewn into the inside of a brides dress; even specific prayer circles the day of a wedding. Despite the presence of the perfect man for you and an abundance of love, what woman will turn down all the prayers and good luck she can get?
What did you have for your trinkets?
Does your family have wedding traditions?
If not, have you ever thought about starting a tradition?
Every tradition has to start somewhere, why not with you?
