15 common wedding superstitions and their explanation

Weddings in modern times have become more flexible, allowing couples to choose their own customs and traditions. However, there is a certain charm in embracing the time-honored wedding superstitions that have been passed down through generations. While these beliefs should be taken with a grain of salt, they add an extra layer of fun and sentiment to your special day. Let's explore some of the most fascinating wedding superstitions beyond the classic "something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue". This is prepared by SSP.

1. Choosing a weekday wedding

Although Saturdays have been the preferred day for weddings, an ancient Celtic poem advises against Saturday ceremonies. Consider getting married on a weekday instead to defy superstitions and usher in good luck.

2. The significance of wearing white

Wearing white on your wedding day has been a symbolic tradition for centuries. A popular verse suggests that getting married in white ensures a fortunate union, while other colors might bring unfavorable outcomes.

3. Something borrowed

Among the traditional "somethings," borrowing an item from a happily married woman is believed to invite good luck and marital success into your new journey.

4. The caution surrounding pearls

Pearls, although valuable heirlooms, carry a belief that they represent tears and can bring sadness. Thus, it's advisable to avoid wearing pearl accessories on your wedding day.

5. The sixpence in your shoe

Completing the "something old, something new" proverb is the inclusion of a sixpence in the bride's shoe. This coin, symbolizing serendipity and prosperity, is often substituted with a penny or another denomination.

6. The purpose behind wearing a veil

Ancient Greeks and Romans viewed veils as protection against the curses and hexes of envious spirits. This tradition aims to safeguard the bride's happiness by obscuring her face.

7. Shedding tears all the way to the altar

Crying on your wedding day is seen as a sign of emotional release and harbinger of lasting happiness, assuring a lifetime of joy and contentment.

8. Delaying the use of your married name

Using your married name before the wedding is thought to bring bad luck and is best avoided. Additionally, folklore advises against trying on all your wedding attire in advance.

9. Crossing paths with a nun or monk

Superstition warns that encountering a nun or monk on the way to your wedding may lead to a life devoid of fertility and reliant on charity. However, this perspective may not align with all lifestyle choices.

10. The foreboding of dropping the rings

Dropping the rings during the ceremony has been linked to a belief that the person responsible will be next in line to pass away. While baseless, it's wise to handle the rings with care.

11. Steer clear of wedding gift knives

Knives traditionally symbolize the severing of relationships, so folklore suggests avoiding knives as wedding gifts. Consider removing them from your registry or include a penny in your thank you note as a symbolic purchase.

12. Spotting a spider in your wedding attire

English tradition maintains that spotting a spider on your wedding gown is a positive omen, signifying good luck and radiance.

13. Rain on your wedding day

Rain might worry some couples, but various cultures perceive it as a symbol of fertility and a fresh start. Embrace the raindrops as a sign of cleansing and good fortune.

14. The mystery of not seeing your partner beforehand

In arranged marriages, this tradition originated from fears that seeing the bride too early might lead to calling off the wedding and causing family disgrace. The practice has lingered romantically through the ages.

15. Carrying the bride over the threshold

While now seen as a loving gesture, carrying the bride over the threshold initially aimed to protect her from spiritual attacks. It was believed that spirits could enter through the soles of her feet, and stumbling would invite bad luck.