Creating Wedding Charms For A Fortunate Future

Wedding days are often associated with nerves and superstition, so it's no surprise that many couples turn to good luck charms to boost their confidence and ward off bad vibes. From something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, to a sixpence in your shoe, there are plenty of wedding traditions and lucky symbols to choose from. In this article, we'll explore some of the most popular good luck charms for weddings and offer tips on how to make your own.

Sixpence in your shoe

The sixpence in your shoe tradition is a well-known wedding good luck charm, with roots in British culture. The rhyme "Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a sixpence in your shoe" is an age-old wedding tradition, with the sixpence coin representing luck, prosperity, and good wishes for the couple.

The sixpence custom involves placing a sixpence coin in the bride's shoe, typically the left shoe, before she walks down the aisle. This act is often performed by the father of the bride, symbolising his love, well wishes, and prosperity for his daughter's new life. In some cases, the coin may be glued inside the shoe to ensure it stays in place throughout the day.

The sixpence coin is typically British, and while it is no longer in circulation, it can still be purchased online or from bridal boutiques. The coin can be placed inside the shoe, folded or taped to the outside, or even sewn inside, with a piece of cloth covering it to match the colour of the shoe.

The sixpence tradition has evolved over time, with some couples choosing to display the coin after the wedding rather than keeping it hidden in a shoe. It can be preserved alongside the wedding bouquet or displayed in creative ways. Additionally, modern interpretations of the tradition include turning the sixpence into a charm, such as adding it to a bracelet or cufflinks.

The sixpence in your shoe custom is a heartwarming way to incorporate a bit of luck and heritage into your wedding day, creating a memorable and special moment for the couple and their families.

Rain on your wedding day

A Fresh Start

Rain is often seen as a symbol of renewal and a fresh start. In Hinduism, it is associated with new beginnings, reinforcing that a couple's marriage is a blessed fresh start. Rain falling on your wedding day can be seen as a cleansing of past difficulties, sadness, and tough times, washing away your past and signalling a new beginning.

Fertility

Rain is also a symbol of fertility, representing life and prosperity. In family-focused cultures, rain on your wedding day is seen as a fertility blessing, signifying well wishes for success in starting a family. In Hindu traditions, a wet knot is hard to untie, so rain on the day of a wedding is said to make the union even stronger and longer-lasting.

Unity and Abundance

Romantic Atmosphere

Practical Considerations

While rain on your wedding day is considered good luck, it is still important to have a backup plan, especially if you are having an outdoor ceremony or reception. Consider renting an event tent to protect against the rain, and ensure you have enough umbrellas and cute rain gear for photos. Communicate any contingency plans to your guests through your wedding website.

So, if you see rain on the forecast for your wedding day, don't worry! Embrace the power of a shower and let the raindrops seal your everlasting love.

Wish lanterns

Timing of the Release

The release of wish lanterns can be done at different times during your wedding. Some couples choose to release them as the last activity of the night, while others do it before cutting the cake. Releasing the lanterns just before the newlyweds make their reception exit is also a popular choice.

Biodegradability

When choosing wish lanterns, opt for biodegradable options to minimise the environmental impact. Wishlantern.com offers 100% biodegradable lanterns, and some lanterns even have bamboo wires that are biodegradable. Avoid lanterns with metal frames if eco-friendliness is a priority for you.

Safety and Release Instructions

While sky lanterns are generally not harmful, it is important to follow proper release instructions and communicate them to your guests. Avoid releasing the lanterns on windy days or near airports. Ensure that guests wait for the lanterns to completely fill with hot air before releasing them.

Decorating the Lanterns

Encourage your guests to decorate the wish lanterns with their wishes and well-wishes for the newlyweds. Paint, stickers, and regular markers can be used to customise the lanterns. This activity adds a personal and creative touch to the celebration.

Group or Individual Release

You can choose to release the wish lanterns in a group or individually. A group release creates an inspirational sight, with dozens of lanterns floating away in unison. It is also more cost-effective, as you only need one lantern for every two guests. On the other hand, an individual or intimate release by the newlyweds or with the bridal party can be a subtle and romantic option.

Family heirlooms

Jewellery

Family heirloom jewellery is a great way to add a special touch to your wedding day look. You can wear a cherished piece of jewellery passed down from your grandmother or mother, such as a favourite necklace, bracelet, earrings, or ring. If you are fortunate enough to have an heirloom engagement ring, you can either choose to wear it as is or reset the stone into a more modern style. You can also use family heirloom jewellery to wrap your bridal bouquet, adding a meaningful detail to your wedding photos.

Accessories

In addition to jewellery, there are other family heirloom accessories that you can incorporate into your wedding day look. For example, you can borrow your mother's veil or wear your great uncle's cufflinks, which will not only bring good luck but also add a touch of vintage flair to your ensemble. If you have a family heirloom watch, you can use it as a unique way to keep time on your special day.

Decorations

Photos

Displaying family photos at your wedding is another way to incorporate heirlooms and add a personal touch. You can include photos of you and your soon-to-be spouse from your dating days, family photos, and even photos of your pets! These photos will not only make the day feel more personal but also serve as great conversation starters for your guests.

Table Settings

If your family has any heirloom tableware, such as china, lace tablecloths, or antique velvet chairs, consider using them for your wedding table settings. This will not only save you money on rentals but also add a unique and elegant touch to your reception.

Horseshoes

The horseshoe's association with luck is also linked to its iron composition. In ancient Greece and among early Western Europeans, iron was believed to have magical properties that could ward off evil. Horseshoes were also hung above doorways to protect against witches, who were said to be fearful of iron.

When using a horseshoe as a wedding good luck charm, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is generally advised to use an old, naturally worn horseshoe as it is believed to have stronger energies. Secondly, the way you hang the horseshoe matters. Some believe that hanging the horseshoe with its open end facing upwards will catch and store good luck, while hanging it with the ends pointing downwards will cause the luck to spill out. However, others believe the opposite—that hanging the horseshoe upside down will shower blessings on those who pass beneath it. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preference and tradition.

You can incorporate the horseshoe into your wedding décor in various ways. For a rustic chic wedding, consider hanging horseshoes as part of your venue décor. You can also give horseshoe charms as wedding favours or incorporate them into your bridal bouquet for a unique touch.

Frequently asked questions