Through the wedding planning process, we know you’re often told that different parts of the wedding day are tradition. But we know the sheer amount of traditions might be making your head spin!
Fear not! We’re here to guide you through the wonderful world of wedding traditions, decoding the significance behind each ritual and giving you the lowdown on why these age-old customs are still stealing the show!
1. Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue
Ever wonder why brides are encouraged to incorporate these four elements into their wedding ensemble?
This tradition dates back to Victorian England, where each item symbolizes different aspects of the bride’s future.
“Something old” represents continuity and the bride’s connection to her past, “something new” signifies optimism for the future, “something borrowed” is usually an item loaned from a happily married friend or family member to bring good luck, and “something blue” symbolizes fidelity and love.
This continues to be a bridal favorite, and why wouldn’t it be when it allows those closest to you to join in on the love on your big day!
2. The White Wedding Dress
Before Queen Victoria popularized the white wedding dress in the 19th century, brides wore dresses in various colors.
Today, the white dress symbolizes purity and innocence. It’s a blank canvas, representing the start of a new chapter and a commitment to a pure and everlasting love.
While this trend is definitely still common, it’s becoming more and more popular for brides to opt for off-white or even brightly colored dresses. We love seeing the variety brides are bringing to their big day!
3. Exchanging Rings: A Circle of Endless Love
The tradition of exchanging rings has been around for centuries, and it’s more than just a sparkly accessory.
The circular shape of the ring represents eternity, with no beginning or end – a perfect symbol for the unending love and commitment between you and your partner.
Plus, it’s a daily reminder of the promises you made on that magical day.
Many officiants will talk about the significance of exchanging rings, and it’s a touching reminder before you take part in the tradition yourself.
4. The First Look: A Moment of Pure Emotion
Whether you’re a traditionalist or a modern romantic, the first look is a cherished moment in many weddings!
Stepping away from the superstition that seeing each other before the ceremony brings bad luck, this tradition is all about creating an intimate, emotional moment between the couple.
It’s a chance to share a private, genuine reaction before the hustle and bustle of the ceremony begins, and it always results in beautiful photos!
5. Throwing Rice or Confetti
From rice to confetti to flower petals, the tradition of throwing something at the newlyweds as they exit the ceremony has various cultural origins.
In ancient Rome, wheat symbolized fertility, and the act of throwing it over the couple was a wish for a fruitful marriage.
Today, it’s all about celebrating and showering the couple with good wishes for prosperity and happiness!
6. The Cake Cutting Ceremony
Sure, cutting the cake together is a sweet photo op, but there’s more to it than meets the eye!
The cake cutting symbolizes the couple’s first joint task as partners – working together to share a delicious treat.
The act of feeding each other is a symbol of the commitment to provide for and support one another throughout their marriage.
Sweet from start to finish – we love seeing couples share this moment together!
7. Carrying the Bride Over the Threshold
This age-old tradition has roots in superstition and chivalry.
In medieval Europe, it was believed that lifting the bride over the threshold protected her from evil spirits lurking at ground level.
Today, it’s a gesture of love and protection as the couple enters their new home together!
8. The Last Dance: Sealing the Celebration
As the night draws to a close, the last dance is a special moment.
Whether it’s a slow, romantic number or a lively, upbeat tune, this tradition signifies the end of the celebration and the beginning of your shared journey as a married couple.
It’s a chance to reflect on the day’s joy, surrounded by the love and warmth of your family and friends.
Pro tip: select a last-dance song ahead of time. This way, you’ll have the perfect ending to a perfect night!
As you plan your special day, feel free to mix and match traditions or create your own. After all, your wedding is a reflection of your love story, and these traditions are simply the timeless threads weaving together the beautiful tapestry of your commitment. Here’s to embracing the old and creating the new in your own love story!
Looking for more inspiration on how couples put their own spin on some of these traditions? Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to see how couples at The Villa incorporate beloved traditions into their big day!
