There are many wedding traditions that have been passed on from decade to decade that brides still hold dear. The tradition of carrying something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue on your wedding day is symbolic of having good luck charms for your wedding, and for the duration of your marriage. The trinkets that you choose for your own wedding day, as part of this wedding tradition, may be very special items that you keep forever, and pass down to your children.

Photography by - Eddie Marroquin Photography

Learn about the source of this age-old wedding tradition.

This wedding tradition is thought to have begun in Britain sometime in the Victorian era. It is said that if the bride carries all of the listed items on her wedding day, her marriage will be happy. "Something old" symbolizes continuity with the bride's family and the past. "Something new" means optimism and hope for the bride's new life ahead. "Something borrowed" is usually an item from a happily married friend or family member whose good fortune in marriage is supposed to carry over to the new bride. The borrowed item also reminds the bride that she can depend on her friends and family. “Something blue” has been associated with weddings for centuries, and is a color that symbolizes love, modesty, and fidelity.

Photography by - A. Whitmore Photography

How to choose your own something old and new.

When choosing your own good luck charms, including your something old and new, you should pick items that are special to you, and that are easy to carry with you discretely. For my charms I chose lace from my mother-in-law’s wedding gown, my grandmother’s earring, my new dress, and a blue bead that I carried in the pocket of my dress.

Photography by - A. Whitmore Photography

Think outside of the box when picking your something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.

Think outside of the box when choosing your trinkets, and don’t be afraid to reach out to friends and family for unique ideas. Your something old and new could even be something that is already a planned part of your wedding day, like new shoes or earrings. Have fun with this creative wedding tradition, and make it special to your romantic wedding.