Monday, January 4, 2010

Happy New Year!

Can you believe another year has come and gone?

As we bring in the new year and celebrate fresh beginnings, we thought it'd be fun to take a look at some of our most cherished wedding traditions.

Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue. We're all familiar with this adage, but did you know that the actual saying ends with and a silver sixpence in her shoe? It's an old English poem and a bride who has each good luck token on her wedding day is said to have a happy marriage.

If you're in need of something blue (or something new, for that matter), we love this gorgeous satin garter by Peterene Design. Speaking of garters, did you know that originally, brides used to toss their garters instead of their bouquets? In fact, European wedding guests used to try to grab the bride's garter themselves, as having a piece of the bride's clothing was believed to bring good luck. The custom changed in the 14th century to the husband retrieving and tossing the garter after brides were tired of fighting off drunken men. Change can be a good thing!

Today, brides from all over the world celebrate with unique traditions. From beautiful Mehndi designs (temporary body art made from a paste of henna leaves and water) on the hands of Indian brides...

... to guests signing the bride's shoes in Turkey.

The Turkish bride asks her single bridesmaids and relatives to sign the soles of her shoes before she walks down the aisle. When all of the dancing and wedding festivities are finished, the person whose signature has faded the most is said to be the next to marry. For more traditions from around the world, check out The Knot.

For a local look at wedding wear from years past, check out the Charleston Museum's Aisle Style: 150 Years of Wedding Fashion.The exhibit will be on display through the end of June.

So, here's to 2010. May we honor the traditions that have been enjoyed by so many happy couples and be inspired to start some new ones along the way. Cheers!

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