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TRADITIONS

SOMETHING OLD - to bring a sense of continuity

SOMETHING NEW - to add an optimistic note

SOMETHING BORROWED - the superstition that happiness rubs off

SOMETHING BLUE - for purity, fidelity and life

Weddings make us all sentimental. By including a special item or tradition in your ceremony and reception that has been used by other family members, or that you yourself may wish to pass along to future generations, you allow family and friends to share in your joy as well as the traditions of your family.

  • Many brides choose to carry a family memento during their wedding.  A handkerchief made from the lace of a family member's gown or veil can be easily carried or incorporated into your bouquet.
  • Your wedding garter can be made from satin or lace used by other family members in their wedding attire.  Just make sure you have a back-up garter for the groom to throw.  Or use your mom or sister's garter from their wedding to wear for yours.
  • Since the first toast at the reception signifies the celebration and coming together of two families as well as the beginning of a new one, crystal, silver or pewter toasting goblets make wonderful gifts to be passed on to future family brides.
  • The day of your wedding plant a tree or a rosebush that can grow throughout the years of our marriage.
  • It is customary for the bride and groom to exchange gifts prior to the ceremony.
  • If you are using a Bible in your ceremony, select one that you can comfortably carry down the aisle with you.  At the completion of the ceremony, you and your groom can sign your names and your wedding date in front of the Bible as well as the location and time of your marriage.

Showering the couple with rice is a ancient tradition. As rice is considered a "Life Giving" seed, it is thought that by throwing it on the couple they will be bestowed with fertility and be blessed with many children.