Weddings are certainly my favorite events in the world. Maybe it’s the almost perfect love story they tell, or the celebration they command that leave me in awe. Whichever it is, I love weddings and I’m proud of it! Equally interesting are some wedding traditions that have been passed down from one generation to another. It’s amazing how some of the famous wedding traditions in America that began centuries ago are still alive today, case in point is the poem of somethings.
In those days, as a bride-to-be counted down to her wedding day, it wasn’t unheard of that she became overwhelmed in between the chaos. For example, whether it was fear of what the future held, the uncertainty of the present, or even hoping her marriage will be blessed with good luck, a bride processed these emotions and more. As a result, she sometimes hit a breaking point and unleashed bridezilla mode. (Interestingly, not so different from today). Thus, a rhyme was born to help remind a bride what to wear to bring good luck in her marriage and also to help ease her tense mood, I guess. After all, a good song/poem, and rhyme sure makes everything seem better.
Discover the poem and its symbolism for brides centuries ago as well as today…
The poem goes:
“Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a silver sixpence in her shoe.”
Frequently referred to as “the four somethings,” the poem originated in Victorian England and is still well-practised today. For example, Kate Middleton took the poem to heart as she dressed for her 2011 wedding to Prince William. According to legend, these small personal treasures, unique to each bride, are tokens of good luck for the bride to carry on her wedding day. Although this rhyme is no longer looked to as a source of good luck, women still practice it for the fun of it and to keep the ancient tradition alive. It’s certainly a good way to decide what to wear for your wedding and kick off the fear and uncertainty associated with entering this new chapter. So, what does each symbolize?
The old item provides protection for the baby to come. The new item offers optimism for the future. The item borrowed from another happily married couple provides good luck. The color blue is a sign of purity and fidelity. Finally, the sixpence — a British silver coin — is a symbol of prosperity or acts as a ward against evil done by frustrated suitors.
There you have it. Certainly, a catchy rhyme to remind you all you need for good luck on your wedding day. No wedding blues here!
Featured image: Nathan Dumlao | Unsplash
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