Avoid These "Bad Luck" Gifts for Relationships
Folklore varies by culture, conveying beliefs about bad luck. Over generations, advice has guided what gifts to give newlyweds or partners. These beliefs can urge caution in gifting choices. You may wonder: what gifts for relationships should be avoided?
Carissa Kruse, a wedding planner, notes, "There are horror stories where giving a bad luck gift leads to relationship failure. These tales create anxiety, deterring people from gifting."
It's smart to be cautious about offering gifts that may symbolize negativity. Let’s explore some culturally rooted items to avoid giving to couples or partners.
Is It Bad Luck to Gift a Knife?
Many believe gifting a knife symbolizes ending a relationship. This notion stems from Japanese folklore, where a knife represents severing bonds. The best wedding gifts shouldn't carry such implications.
However, if knives are on a wedding registry, then gifting one isn’t risky. But, if they’re absent from the registry, it might be best to steer clear. To avoid giving a potentially harmful gift, consider traditional options like practical kitchen appliances.
Is It Bad Luck to Gift Shoes?
The belief around gifting shoes suggests it may signify that someone will walk away. Thus, if delivering shoes to a couple, some fear it may prompt separation. On the flip side, avoiding gifting shoes entirely brings its own risks—such as potentially being without a pair in the afterlife.
So, if your partner loves shoes, don’t hesitate to gift them. Just be aware of both superstitions.
Is It Bad Luck to Gift Perfume?
Gifting perfume might seem romantic and thoughtful. However, the viewpoint depends on regional beliefs. In Indian superstition, it is considered unlucky. Conversely, Greeks believe a gift of perfume obliges the receiver to offer coins to avoid misfortune. Furthermore, some Chinese traditions link gifting perfume to relationship troubles.
If your partner is enthusiastic about fragrance, consider opting for a gift card instead.
Is It Bad Luck to Gift a Watch?
When it comes to watches, opinions differ. Some view gifting a watch as a countdown to lost time together. Yet, in numerous cultures, it's recognized as a token of success and abundance. Assess the couple’s tastes when deciding on gifts.
Is It Bad Luck to Gift Pearls?
Pearls have positive associations in various cultures. They symbolize feminine grace and marital unity across traditions. According to Kruse, many brides wear pearl adornments for good fortune, making pearl gifts appropriate for celebrations. Pearls also mark significant anniversaries, suggesting great luck for such occasions.
Is It Bad Luck to Gift a Candle?
Candle gifts also present mixed beliefs. Some cultures suggest candles could symbolize burning relationships. However, many view them positively, seeing them as reminders of love. When gifting, candles can create an inviting and warm atmosphere for your partner.
Is It Bad Luck to Gift Gloves?
In the Medieval era, gifting gloves could be ominous. It suggested conflict might follow that gift, ending the relationship. Yet, if given alongside something returned, it might negate the bad luck. Caution about requiring reciprocity suggests it might be wiser to pass on this gift.
Is It Bad Luck to Gift Scissors?
Scissors are viewed similarly by Japanese and European cultures. It's believed that giving scissors signifies cutting ties. To counter this superstition, the giver may receive a small item in a "transaction." This practice could alleviate the bad vibes.
Is It Bad Luck to Gift a Mirror?
Mirrors hold powerful meanings and are associated with much superstition. Some believe they contain pieces of one’s soul, thus holding memory and energy from previous owners. Giving an antique mirror may carry unseen risks.
To avoid potential issues, Kruse suggests gifting items that symbolize good fortune, such as lucky bamboo or a horseshoe. These items can enhance the couple's new life together and invite positive energy into their home.
Earlier, SSP told why we knock on wood for luck.