The ‘Something Old, New, Borrowed and Blue’ tradition is a charming way to imbue good fortune upon a bride on her wedding day. This sentimental list of items asks the newlywed-to-be to choose one symbolizing each part of the rhyme or enlist the help of five trusted individuals to contribute to her attire. It’s a lovely way to bid farewell to loved ones as they embark on their greatest adventure together.
Some believe that without these four ‘something’ elements, a bride is not fully prepared to take that all-important walk down the aisle. Discover some of our preferred choices for each category, including unique and thoughtful gifts.
Something Old…
The concept of cultural dowry is often linked to a person’s ancestral heritage, serving as a symbol of continuity with their family’s history and tradition. This deep-rooted connection with one’s roots is an integral part of the bride’s identity and serves as a tangible representation of her past, providing a sense of stability and familiarity in the present.
A Vintage Car…
If someone special in your life has a passion for old cars, you may have noticed the significance of a particular vehicle in their collection. Similarly, browsing through family photos can bring back fond memories, such as a beautiful wedding album that features a specific make of car. This nostalgic touch can even inspire creative ideas, like recreating a memorable moment from your own special day.
Whether it’s a vintage automobile or a treasured photograph, these sentimental details can make any event truly unforgettable.
A Lock On The Bouquet…
Imagine carrying a piece of cherished memories wherever you go, amidst the beauty of blooming flowers. To incorporate this sentimental idea into your special occasion, consider attaching a locket containing a photo of loved ones who are no longer with us to your bouquet. This heartfelt gesture can bring warmth and joy to those around you, while also serving as a touching tribute to those who have passed on.
Up-cycle A Pearl Necklace…
Instead of adorning your neck, why not incorporate the pearls into your wedding gown design? It’s a thoughtful way to carry loved ones’ memories with you on your special day. Take inspiration from Justin Alexander’s exquisite gowns, as showcased by Carla Gates Photography below.
An Old Poetry Book/Bible…
Incorporating a personal touch is a great way to make your wedding ceremony truly unforgettable. If you have a special book that holds sentimental value, consider including it in your celebration. This could be a cherished childhood favorite or a meaningful novel that has been passed down through generations. To add an extra layer of emotion, you could ask someone close to you to read a passage from the book aloud during the ceremony.
Alternatively, tie the wedding bands to the book with ribbon and have your page boy carry it as a unique and symbolic gesture. The more character the book possesses – whether that’s due to its worn leather cover or yellowed pages – the more it will add to the overall atmosphere of your special day.
A Family Heirloom…
For many, the most sentimental piece of jewelry to be passed down is one that holds a special place in family history. Think about the pieces you coveted as a child and which ones will complement your wedding attire best. Take inspiration from Kate Middleton’s royal wedding, where she borrowed a tiara from Queen Elizabeth II. BHLDN offers an exquisite range of jewelry for brides who want to make their own statement.
Something New…
As a representation of the bride’s new beginning, this symbol embodies her unwavering optimism and anticipation for the exciting journey that lies ahead. Moreover, it serves as a poignant reminder of her unique character and personality, reflecting her individuality and all the qualities that make her special.
New Perfume…
Imagine the joy of surprising your husband with a fragrance that captures the essence of your special day. According to experts, our sense of smell is closely tied to memories, making this perfume a meaningful way to relive the magic of your wedding day. Consider reapplying it on your first anniversary, allowing you both to be transported back in time to the joy and romance of that moment. For capturing the beauty of your big day, we’re grateful for Hilary Cam Photography’s expertise.
And, as you gaze at your stunning Vera Wang wedding gown, remember to preserve this cherished memory with a full post here.
A New Name…
When embracing your partner’s surname, a thoughtful touch could be embroidering your new initials onto your wedding dress. Imagine the sentimental value of seeing them written out for the first time as you gaze at your reflection in the mirror on your big day. The result is a charming, personalized detail that adds an extra layer of romance to this special moment.
Lingerie…
Indulge your senses and treat yourself to a luxurious bridal intimate experience. There are countless stunning options available, making it the perfect opportunity to try something new and make you feel simply fabulous! Allow yourself to be pampered by exquisite designs and materials that will leave you feeling confident and alluring. Treat yourself to a little luxury and enjoy the sensation of slipping into something truly special.
A Gift From The Groom…
Imagine starting your special day feeling like the luckiest bride-to-be, with a thoughtful gift from your loved one. This sweet tradition has been delighting couples for ages, and we think it’s absolutely charming! Whether he presents you with a stunning piece of jewelry, a heartfelt letter, or a small yet meaningful token, like a hair clip or lipstick, make your walk down the aisle even more unforgettable by accepting his thoughtful gesture.
And don’t worry if you need a little help from your trusty bridesmaid to give him a subtle nudge in the right direction. With memories like these, it’s no wonder that couples treasure this tradition so much. For those looking to capture their love story on camera, we recommend Blumenthal Photography for top-notch results. And for beauty enthusiasts, Sophie Lau Hair and Make Up is always a great choice to help you look your absolute best.
A Key…
As you embark on this new chapter with your partner, what better symbol of unity and shared adventures than a meaningful keepsake? Consider incorporating a special key into your celebration, such as hiding one in the bouquet that represents your new home together. Alternatively, opt for a beautiful rose gold bottle opener like this stunning piece, which can serve as a thoughtful token to commemorate your future together.
The team at Affordable Elegance Bridal is here to help you make your wedding day dreams a reality.
Something Borrowed…
The Veil…
A versatile veil is a timeless addition that can be easily borrowed from a friend, making it a practical and stylish choice. Moreover, when paired with a different dress, the overall look won’t be too similar to your friend’s wedding attire, allowing for a unique and memorable celebration. The concept of sharing a veil between friends takes on a charming quality, reminiscent of ‘The Sisterhood of the Travelling Veil.
‘ In terms of specific details, the beautiful event took place at Churchill Events, with stunning photography by Brown Paper Parcel, exquisite florals provided by Prunella Flowers, the lovely bride donning her gown from Karen Willis Holmes, and the veil sourced from Bride La Boheme.
A Cake Topper/Knife…
In today’s world of sentimental keepsakes, few treasures are as endearing as a family heirloom passed down through generations. The tradition of sharing or using someone else’s cake knife is a heartwarming way to make your special day even more meaningful. Imagine the stories you’ll hear and memories you’ll create when you ask your parents about their own cake knife, now worn with pride by them after years of use.
If you’re looking for a modern spin on this timeless tradition, consider borrowing a friend’s cake topper instead. A beautifully designed or intricately crafted topper can add a personal touch to your wedding celebration. Just be sure the design or text doesn’t reveal too much about the couple it belongs to!
A Handbag…
For many people, owning a high-end designer handbag is a lifelong dream. While purchasing one outright might not be feasible for everyone, there are innovative alternatives that can help you achieve this aspiration without breaking the bank. Websites like The Luxe Collection offer an opportunity to rent or borrow luxury items, including that stunning Louis Vuitton clutch, for special occasions or events.
This way, you can experience the prestige and glamour of a designer handbag without the hefty price tag.
The Dress…
Honouring the woman who brought you into this world by wearing her wedding dress down the aisle is a beautiful way to show your appreciation. Take Bride Tan, for instance, who decided to make her mum’s wedding gown her own by making a few subtle alterations. A flowing train was added to give it a modern touch that still paid homage to her mother’s original design.
The words…
When it comes to wedding inspiration, there’s no better place to start than with the words of others who have gone before you. Perhaps a particular passage stood out at a friend’s wedding ceremony, or maybe you admire the love story of a certain couple. Why not borrow some of their romantic sentiments and make them your own? This could involve incorporating parts of their vows into your own ceremony, or having the same reading delivered on your special day.
Whether it’s a meaningful quote, a heartfelt sentiment, or a clever phrase, using borrowed words can add an extra layer of emotional depth to your wedding celebration.
Something Blue…
While Queen Victoria’s iconic white wedding dress may have kick-started the tradition in 1840, it’s fascinating to note that blue gowns were once the norm. Prior to Victoria’s reign, brides would opt for blue attire as a symbol of purity. The phrase ‘marry in blue, lover be true’ is still remembered today, highlighting the significance of this colour in wedding traditions.
A Handkerchief…
The humble handkerchief has been a timeless token of love and affection for generations, and Bride Belinda’s mother had the perfect example to illustrate this. She gifted her daughter a beautifully embroidered handkerchief with a sweet message in blue – a thoughtful gesture that would surely be cherished on special occasions throughout the day.
Sapphire…
A sapphire ring is the perfect excuse to add an extra touch of elegance to your wedding day look. Its blue sparkle complements intricate details on long-sleeved gowns, making it a stylish alternative to a necklace or bracelet. With so many options available, why not treat yourself to a gorgeous piece of jewelry that’s sure to turn heads? Lost In Love Photography captures the beauty and romance of your special day.
Shoes…
As you make your way down the aisle or take to the dance floor, a pop of blue from your heels adds a touch of whimsy and personality to your overall look. Plus, they’re shoes that can be worn again and again, making them a practical choice for any occasion.
Your Bouquet…
We’re utterly enamored with sea holly at the moment. Its unique, egg-shaped blooms inject a vibrant blue hue into any arrangement, particularly when paired with Australian natives or crisp white flowers. This striking combination is sure to elevate your bouquet game.
The Garter…
The allure of a pale blue garter is undeniable. While there are numerous options available, some may find that they prefer a more unique shade or have already discovered their perfect match. For those who fall into the latter category, or simply prefer a style only offered in white, taking matters into one’s own hands and dyeing it at home can be a fulfilling DIY project.
A dressing robe…
Imagine capturing breathtaking moments on your honeymoon, wrapped in a luxurious silk blue robe that exudes elegance. This stunning piece of attire not only looks great in photos but also makes for a thoughtful addition to your romantic getaway’s packing list.
A Silver Sixpence In Her Shoe…
In many wedding customs, it’s common for the bride to receive a unique gift from her father on her big day. One such tradition is the act of slipping a coin into the bride’s shoe. This thoughtful gesture holds sentimental value as it symbolizes the dad’s well-wishes for his daughter’s marriage. Specifically, he hopes she’ll experience prosperity, love and happiness with her new partner. This heartfelt token serves as a reminder of his enduring support and love for his child.
The Coin…
You can put a unique spin on ordering a sixpence online by incorporating personal significance into the design. For instance, consider using coins from milestone years such as the year you met or got married. This small token can become a cherished family heirloom and even spark a new tradition. Just be sure to store it safely after the wedding day.