The tradition of incorporating "something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue" into weddings is a timeless custom that dates back to Victorian England. Each item symbolizes different aspects of a bride's life and hopes for her future. Here are some creative ideas for each element of this tradition.
Something Old
1. Family Heirloom Jewelry: Wearing a piece of jewelry passed down through generations, such as a grandmother's necklace or mother's bracelet, connects the bride to her family's history.
2. Vintage Veil or Dress: If a family member has a veil or wedding dress that has been preserved, it can be a beautiful way to honor the past.
3. Antique Hairpins: Adding antique hairpins to the bridal hairstyle can subtly incorporate something old into the look.
4. Old Family Recipe: Incorporate an old family recipe into your wedding menu, such as a special dessert or a signature cocktail that has been enjoyed by generations.
5. Vintage Postcards as Décor: Use vintage postcards from your hometown or places that are meaningful to you and your partner as part of the wedding décor, perhaps as table markers or a guest book.
6. Antique Locket with Photos: Wear an antique locket that contains photos of loved ones, especially those who can't be there, close to your heart.
Something New
1. New Wedding Dress: The most common "something new" is the wedding dress itself, symbolizing the new journey the bride is embarking on.
2. Fresh Perfume: A new fragrance for the wedding day can serve as a scent memory, reminding the bride of her special day whenever she wears it in the future.
3. Personalized Accessories: Custom-made shoes, a new pair of earrings, or a monogrammed clutch can add a personal touch to the bridal ensemble.
4. Custom Wedding Vows: Write new, personalized vows that reflect your unique relationship and future together.
5. Modern Art as Wedding Gift: Commission a piece of modern art that represents your love story to display at the wedding and in your home afterward.
6. New Tech Twist: Use a new piece of technology, like a custom wedding website or a digital guestbook where guests can leave video messages for the couple.
Something Borrowed
1. Veil from a Close Friend: Borrowing a veil from a close friend who has already enjoyed a happy marriage is believed to bring good luck.
2. Special Reading: Borrow a meaningful poem, scripture, or song lyric from someone you admire and include it in your ceremony.
3. Borrowed Words: Ask a friend or family member to share a favorite love quote or piece of advice during the wedding ceremony.
4. Borrowed Song: Ask a musician friend to play a song that was meaningful in their own wedding or relationship during your ceremony.
5. Borrowed Tradition: Incorporate a cultural or family tradition from a close friend or relative into your ceremony, perhaps a reading, dance, or ritual.
6. Borrowed Timepiece: Borrow a special watch or clock from a family member or friend and use it to time significant moments in the ceremony, like the exchange of vows or the first kiss.
Something Blue
1. Blue Garter: A blue garter is a classic choice that easily incorporates this tradition into the bride's attire.
2. Blue Shoes: For the bride who loves bold statements, blue wedding shoes can be both stylish and symbolic.
3. Blue Embroidery: Have a small blue heart or initials embroidered inside the wedding dress or on a handkerchief for a discreet touch of blue.
4. Blue-inked Love Letters: Exchange love letters with your partner on the morning of your wedding, written in blue ink and saved as keepsakes.
5. Blue Ribbon Bouquet Wrap: Wrap your bouquet in a blue ribbon that holds special meaning, such as one passed down through generations or from a significant event.
6. Blue Hidden Details: Sew a small piece of blue fabric, perhaps from a favorite shirt or dress, into the inside of your wedding dress or tuxedo.
Creative Combinations
For a more modern twist, brides are increasingly blending these elements together. For example:
1. Old and Blue: A vintage sapphire ring or blue antique brooch serves as both something old and something blue.
2. Borrowed and Blue: Borrow a blue item, such as a hairpin or ribbon, from a friend who has been happily married.
3. New and Blue: A brand-new pair of blue shoes or a blue-accented accessory could cover both the new and blue aspects.
Incorporating these traditional elements into a wedding allows brides to honor the past, celebrate the present, and look forward to the future. With a little creativity, each part of this age-old custom can be personalized to reflect the bride's unique style and story.
