Wedding traditions: Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a silver sixpence in your shoe.

Hi there, wedding planners! If you're knee-deep in the whirlwind of organising your big day, you've probably stumbled across a certain age-old tradition: "Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue and a silver sixpence in your shoe." 

It's like a comforting refrain from generations' past, reminding us of the love and luck that's been woven into weddings for centuries. But have you ever stopped to wonder where this tradition came from, and how it fits into our modern world? 

Join us on a journey through time as we explore the roots of this beloved custom and uncover its relevance for today's couples.  

The history of this poetic mantra dates back to 1871 in Lancashire, England, and was born in an era where luck and prosperity were enthusiastically sought for the newlywed couple. 

This little ditty first popped up in a book called "Routledge's Manual of Etiquette," penned by none other than Lady Mary Montgomerie Currie. Yep, sounds fancy, doesn't it? 

Now, back in those days people were all about stacking the odds in their favour for a happy marriage.  

Legend has it that each item in the rhyme was thought to bring a different kind of luck to the newlyweds. From heirlooms to hopeful dreams, there's a whole lot of meaning packed into those five little phrases. 

Let's break them down. 

Something old links the past to the present and offers protection for the future. It brings family history and love, connecting the bride to the women before her and reminding her that there’s strength in her family roots. 

Something new represents hope and optimism for the future along with the bride’s chance to bring her own personality to the marriage. It is common for brides to choose something that’s a unique representation of them and their personality. 

Something borrowed brings the happiness from another happily married couple to the newlyweds. The borrowed item is thought to be a powerful symbol of loyalty and prosperity and forms a bond by bringing happy memories from the past to the present. 

One school of thought was that the borrowed item must be clothing from a woman who has children as it would bring fertility to the bride. 

Something blue was thought to ward off the Evil Eye which was a curse that could prevent the bride from being able to have a baby. It's also a symbol of commitment and everlasting love. 

Stick a sixpence in your shoe, well this little coin brings financial security to the new couple’s future and, if it is gifted or borrowed from a happily married woman, it brings true luck with it too.  

And get this—traditionally, it was slipped into the bride’s left shoe! Now, here's where it gets interesting: one story goes that it had to stay put until after the lovebirds attended church on the first Sunday post-wedding. Why, you ask? Well, apparently, it was like a charm to ward off any lingering bad vibes from past relationships. Talk about stepping into marriage on the right foot! 

Here's the kicker: back then, it was all about the bride. Yep, the poor groom didn't get much of a look-in. 

But in today's diverse world, where love knows no bounds and marriages are as unique as the couples themselves, how can we put our own spin on the poem to reflect our own personal values and identities? 

First off, let's take a step back and remember the poem was written when prevailing Victorian attitudes towards gender and sexuality were led by stiff collars with rigid ideas about love and marriage – it was a different vibe back then. 

But here's the good news: times have changed! We're living in an era where love knows no boundaries and being true to ourselves is more important than ever. So, when we look at those five little phrases—something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue and a silver sixpence in your shoe - we can see them as opportunities to connect with our roots, to honour the stories and treasures passed down through generations.  

And let's not forget the best part: they give us an excuse to gather 'round with our nearest and dearest, swapping tales and sharing laughs as we prepare for the big day. 

So, let's embrace the tradition, and make it our own. After all, weddings are about celebrating love in all its beautiful, messy, wonderful forms.  

For those who are looking for a modern interpretation of the poem, we’ve sneakily found one that goes like this: 

Something cherished, something true, 

A love that's bold, a love that's new. 

Something shared, from friends so dear, 

A memory to hold and to revere. 

Something blue, in skies above, 

A sign of peace, a sign of love. 

And in their shoes, a coin they hide, 

For luck and joy to walk beside. 

Two hearts unite, with equal claim, 

In life's grand dance, love is the aim. 

Old norms evolve, as they say, "I do," 

For something old can birth something new. 

And if you're seeking inspiration for your wedding, consider exploring our beautiful wedding marquees showcased on our website, Instagram, and Facebook pages. 

Here's to love, laughter, and a future filled with endless possibilities.