Weddings are one of the most important events in a couple’s life, so it comes as no surprise that many superstitions have developed around weddings over time. From throwing rice at each other or wearing something old, new, borrowed and blue to the customary practice of throwing away one shoe on each step during an aisle walk and more traditional traditions and customs still prevalent today – we will explore some of the most prevalent wedding superstitions here in this article!
Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed and Something Blue
One of the more beloved wedding superstitions involves wearing “something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue”. Each piece represents different aspects of one’s past or future; “something old” refers to their past memories; “something new” represents future hopes; borrowing something from happily married friends or relatives may bring good luck; and finally “something blue” stands as an ode to fidelity and devotion.
Bridal Veils
Bridal Veils have long been used as protection from evil spirits and are also believed to help brides remain modest and pure until they were married.
Bride’s Family and Groom’s Family Shouldn’t Meet Before the Wedding
Superstition plays an integral part in many cultures’ beliefs today; for instance, some believe that gathering families together before a wedding brings bad luck for its couple. However, modern families often ignore this tradition when meeting prior to making plans and getting acquainted.
Wedding Ring
A wedding ring has long been worn on the fourth finger of the left hand to represent everlasting love and symbolize eternity. It is customarily worn around this finger.
The Best Man
A best man is often one of the groom’s closest friends or brothers and plays an essential role in supporting him throughout the wedding process and protecting him from evil spirits; which is why they stand on his right during ceremonies.
The Bridal Bouquet
Originally, bridal bouquets were composed of herbs and spices believed to ward off evil spirits. Nowadays, however, brides typically throw bouquets made up of flowers at the end of wedding ceremonies as an omen that someone caught it next time around and was about to get married themselves.
The Wedding Dress
Traditional white wedding gowns symbolize purity and innocence, in some cultures, the dress is red, which may help ward off evil spirits from harming the ceremony.
The Wedding Cake
The centerpiece of any reception, the wedding cake can bring good luck to both bride and groom if cut together by both. In some cultures, cakes even contain charms symbolizing different types of fortune!
Honeymoon
The honeymoon has long been seen as an integral part of marriage; ancient people believed that taking a trip together would deepen relationships and increase the chances of a successful union. Today, honeymoons offer couples an opportunity to relax after planning a wedding while spending quality time with each other.
FAQs
Are wedding superstitions the same in every culture?
No, different cultures observe various wedding superstitions and traditions.
Is it bad luck for the groom to see the bride before their wedding date?
Although this superstition still persists in some cultures, its application in modern society has often been disregarded.
What is the origin of bridal veil usage?
The bridal veil was initially worn to protect a bride from evil spirits.
What is the significance of the wedding ring? A wedding ring symbolizes eternal and everlasting love.
What role do best men serve at a wedding?
The role of the best man at a wedding is to assist and protect the groom.
Conclusion
Wedding superstitions have long been part of many cultures across the globe and remain part of everyday life today. From wearing “something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue” to tossing the bridal bouquet on their special day, wedding superstitions add a magical element that makes their eventful experience that much sweeter. While certain traditions may have fallen out of favor over time, many are still observed by couples today.
As with any superstition, belief in wedding superstitions lies solely with each individual. But regardless of faith or lack thereof, these traditions serve as an opportunity to recognize marriage’s rich history and heritage in different cultures.
