The Royal Mint has revealed what traditions brides still uphold on their wedding day, as a result of superstition and ones that have faded with time.
Weddings on Female First
Something old, something new- This rhyme states that you have to have something old- a family heirloom perhaps, something new- a hairpiece for example, something borrowed- a piece of jewellery from a family member and something blue might be a handkerchief, garter or blue tie on their flowers. The rhyme ends with a ‘sixpence in your shoe’- even though this might be quite uncomfortable- some brides will still endure the pain so their marriage is not doomed for all eternity.
On the flip side some couples are breaking the mould of tradition with as much determination.
Bridal chorus- A lot of brides are opting for something more personal than the recognised generic tune. Something that is perhaps more applicable to the couple- like their first song performed by a quartet or a tune that reminds them of one of their first dates.
Dress- Some brides are now opting to have coloured dresses- avoiding the white/ivory option that implies purity and virginity. As most brides now live with their partner before getting married- there is no need to pretend that they are still innocent on their wedding day. Some wives to be are also partial to a shortened wedding dress, with the increase of beach weddings- there is no need for something long and cumbersome in the heat of the outdoors abroad.
Shane Bissett, Director of Commemorative Coin at The Royal Mint said:
“While each generation likes to put a new stamp on their wedding, it’s clear that modern brides still hold real affection for many of the traditions followed by their mothers and grandmothers before them.
“To help all brides incorporate tradition into their big day, The Royal Mint has released a limited edition run of authentic sixpences which must be placed inside a bride’s shoe by her father before her walk down the aisle.
“The silver sixpence has always been associated with wishing the bride love, prosperity and happiness in her marriage, and they make a thoughtful present which any bride can keep forever.
“It was once common practice for the groom to give his bride gifts of gold and silver as an integral part of the vows, so it is no surprise that coins became traditionally linked with the wedding ceremony.”
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