Wedding Superstitions

By weddingspot.co.uk, 24/05/11 Before the wedding

Superstitions form part of our culture and weddings are an important event that are surrounded by tradition and superstition. If you are the superstitious type, take note as we are going to have a look at them.

The superstitions and traditions that surround weddings have different origins and foundations. Here is a summary of them for the most superstitious couples and for those who aren't, but wish to respect them out of tradition.

When choosing a date, you may want to bear in mind not getting married on a Friday. There is a saying that "a couple married on a Friday are doomed to a cat and dog life". You may want to think again if that Friday happens to fall on the 13th, the number thirteen being arcanely linked with death, it may be a good idea not to tempt fate.
If you want to make sure that there are no clouds on your wedding day, you may want to follow the Phillipine tradition of offering eggs to Saint Clare, the patroness of good weather.
The bride's jewellery should never be pearls as they represent tears. However, crystals and diamonds bring good luck due to their transparency and purity.
Another deeply rooted tradition is the garter, which represents mystery and virginty.
One of the most well-known traditions is for the bride to wear something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue. Old represents a strong relationship, new, the future, borrowed, happiness and blue stands for fidelity and a long lasting relationship.

Another classic tradition is that the groom cannot see his future wife in her bridal gown before the ceremony. Lesser known is the superstition that the bride shouldn't look at herself in a full length mirror once dressed.
The groom's tie should be perfectly straight when entering the ceremony. If crooked, it is said that he will be unfaithful to his future wife.
A coin sewn into the hem of the wedding dress or worn in the groom's shoe is often said to bring good luck.
Even though the bride and groom live together, they should not spend the night before the wedding together.
Although many places do not allow rice to be thrown when the newlyweds leave the ceremony, the act symbolizes the fertility of the couple.
One of the most respected traditions is the throwing of the bride's bouquet to the single ladies. The one who catches it will be next to wed.

The tradition of throwing the garter, or giving it away comes from France and they say that it brings good luck. That being said, it should be the groom who removes it.
Covering the bride's face with a veil until she arrives at the alter protects her from the evil eye, evil spirits and jealousy.
When arriving home, the groom should carry the bride across the threshold as it would bring bad luck if she were to trip.

Photos 1 and 2: Mireia Cordomi

Photo 3: Quick Digital

Wedding Superstitions

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