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Weddings are filled with traditions and superstitions that have been passed down through generations. While some are widely known, others are quite surprising. Here are ten wedding superstitions that might leave you wondering if you should follow them on your big day.
Something Old, Something New
This well-known rhyme suggests that a bride should wear something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue for good luck. The old represents continuity, the new offers optimism for the future, the borrowed item symbolizes borrowed happiness, and the blue stands for purity, love, and fidelity.
Seeing Each Other Before the Ceremony
Many couples opt for a “first look” before their ceremony, but traditionally, it’s considered bad luck for the bride and groom to see each other before they walk down the aisle. This superstition dates back to arranged marriages when the bride and groom were kept apart to prevent any second thoughts.
Rain on Your Wedding Day
While rain is often seen as an inconvenience, many cultures believe it brings good luck and symbolizes fertility and cleansing. It’s thought that a rainy wedding day will lead to a long, happy marriage and a life full of children.
Dropping the Wedding Rings
If the rings are dropped during the ceremony, it’s believed to be a sign of bad luck. However, some traditions hold that whoever drops the ring will be the first to die, making this superstition particularly ominous. Many couples ensure their rings are securely held to avoid any mishaps.
The Bride’s Veil
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The bridal veil has been used for centuries to ward off evil spirits. In ancient times, it was believed that evil spirits were attracted to the bride’s happiness and beauty, and the veil was used to disguise her. Today, it’s more of a fashion statement but still carries that ancient superstition.
Carrying the Bride Over the Threshold
This tradition is rooted in the belief that evil spirits linger at the threshold of a new home. By carrying the bride over the threshold, the groom is protecting her from any lurking spirits. It also symbolizes the groom’s strength and the start of their new life together.
Breaking Glass
In some cultures, breaking a glass at the end of the wedding ceremony is believed to bring good luck. The sound of the glass shattering is thought to scare away evil spirits. This practice is commonly seen in Jewish weddings where it also symbolizes the fragility of human relationships.
Spiders in the Wedding Dress
Finding a spider in your wedding dress might sound like a nightmare, but in some cultures, it’s considered very lucky. It’s believed that the presence of a spider signifies a prosperous and happy marriage. This superstition is particularly popular in England.
Ringing Bells
Ringing bells at a wedding is a tradition meant to ward off evil spirits. The sound is thought to chase away any negative energy, ensuring the couple’s happiness. Today, bells are often incorporated into wedding decor or used during the ceremony for good luck.
Knives as Wedding Gifts
Giving a set of knives as a wedding gift is considered bad luck as it symbolizes a broken relationship or the cutting of ties. To counteract this, the couple can give a small coin to the gift-giver, turning the gift into a transaction and avoiding the bad omen.
Final Reflections
Whether you’re superstitious or not, these traditions add a touch of history and mystery to your wedding day. While some might seem outdated or amusing, they can also be a fun way to incorporate cultural heritage into your celebration. Decide which ones resonate with you and enjoy your special day.
