Something Old, Something New
Something Borrowed, Something Blue
And a Silver Sixpence in Your Shoe

This comes from an Old English rhyme.
Many brides still follow this age old tradition, but what exactly does it mean?

Something Old
Signifies a sense of continuity with the past, tradition, and represents the link to the bride's old life and her family.
Many brides would wear their mother's wedding gown or family jewelry. I used my grandmother's handkerchief in my
bouquet.

Something New
Signifies hope for the future; that represents an optimistic token. This one is easy....the bridal gown can be used
here, if it is purchased new - or any other new item purchased as part of the bridal attire.

Something Borrowed
You're suppose to borrow something from a relative or friend who is happily married, since married bliss is said to rub
off on others.  Their happiness will wear off on you and bring you happiness too!  Brides can borrow jewelry, a small
purse. Be sure to return it to ensure good luck.

Something Blue
Signifies fidelity, purity and love.  Ideas for something blue: wearing jewels like sapphires, opals or blue topaz; paint
your toes blue; blue panties or lingerie; baby blue slip; handkerchief with blue embroidery, blue flowers like
hydrangea, iris, hyacinth or delphinium in your bouquet; and the traditional garter with blue lace.

And a Silver Sixpence in Her Shoe
For hundreds of years, brides have customarily worn a sixpence coin in their shoe on their wedding day to bless their
marriage with wealth and prosperity.  Today brides substitute a penny in their shoe during the ceremony as silver
sixpences are hard to come by. (I have seen them on the internet for $8.95)   

Go to
www.silversixpence.com for more information.
Something Old, Something New....
Copyright © 2009  Carolyn Burke - Wedding Liaison
Back to Wedding Liaison Tips