Myths and traditions of marriage and their meanings

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Evelyn Carpenter

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Among all the things that a marriage entails are the myths and traditions that have always been linked to it, many of which are followed to the letter or with one or two modifications. Wearing a relative's wedding dress? Something blue? Flowers instead of rice? A rosary instead of a bouquet of flowers? Cutting the wedding cake together?

Believe it or not, these myths and traditions in marriages such as the exchange of wedding rings among others, have their reason for being, although nowadays some have been changing, losing their initial meaning. If you decide to make any, here we tell you the meaning of the most common ones.

The secret of the wedding dress

Rodrigo Escobar

Its meaning comes from when marriages were arranged; then, the groom could not see the bride before the marriage ceremony This is why he could give up on marrying her or have a bad opinion of her. this tradition means a sign of bad luck Although today brides prefer to keep the secret of their styling to surprise the groom.

The pearls

Here we find a myth that is not very encouraging, since pearls for better or for worse symbolize the solidified tears of the bride That is why every pearl she wears, according to this myth, will be a tear she sheds.

But not everything is so negative, since there is the more optimistic version which says that every pearl is one less tear for the bride. Anyway, the truth is that pearls look beautiful on brides, in accessories or in updos as ornaments. Besides, tears are also shed for happiness.

Something borrowed

Eternal Captive

This tradition is associated with transmit the good luck and love of a marriage This is why this tradition proposes that the bride wear an accessory or detail such as a silver ring from a happy marriage, so that good luck is shared with this new marriage.

Something blue

Felipe Gutierrez

Wearing something blue is meaning of good luck and protection for married life In ancient times, brides passed through a blue arch when getting married, as it symbolized fidelity.

So also, today the color blue is associated with fidelity, purity and a strengthened love. You can wear something blue in different ways, from a headdress to accompany a simple hairstyle, jewellery, shoes, bridal bouquet and even make-up.

Something old

Puello Conde Photography

The tradition of wearing something old represents the past that the bride leaves behind and symbolizes a new beginning. and a new life for her and her future husband. It is for this reason that ideally this "something old" is usually a family jewel .

Something New

Together Photography

It's a new beginning for the couple It is also a tradition linked to "something blue, something borrowed and something old". And, of course, there is no bride who doesn't wear a new dress on her wedding day!

Throwing rice

Nowadays, the tradition of throwing rice at the bride and groom once they are married has been replaced by bubbles, petals and coloured paper. But the custom of throwing rice has a special significance of good luck, fertility and prosperity for the bride and groom .

The veil

Sergio Troncoso Photography

In ancient times it had several meanings, for example, to protect the bride from evil spirits It also represented the virginity and naivety of the woman.

The league

Alejandro & Alejandra

For many it may come as a surprise, but contrary to what you may think, in its origin the garter represented mystery, purity and virginity. Although today it is associated with a very sensual accessory.

Bouquet of flowers or rosary?

Hector & Daniela

Perhaps the bride is thinking of entering the altar with a rosary, because it has a more spiritual meaning and not with a bouquet, which would not be an exception since many do it or decide for both. However, it would not be an exception, the bridal bouquet symbolizes life, fertility and sweetness. There are plenty of reasons to include it in the bridal entrance.

Marrying in the rain

Yeimmy Velasquez

The myth says that marrying in the rain it's good luck and that marriage will last forever. You know, if it rains on your marriage, just be thankful for it!

Not getting married on a Tuesday

Escalona Photography

It is difficult for a marriage to take place on a Tuesday, but in the case of a civil marriage it can happen perfectly well. The myth says that this is the day of the god of war. It is also a day associated with tragedy and misfortune, so perhaps it is best to avoid getting married on a Tuesday, but only if you are very superstitious.

There are many myths and traditions that are carried out without knowing their meaning, such as toasting with the bride and groom's glasses to celebrate the union of two families. Remember that marriage itself is a rite full of symbolism and where the most sincere phrases of love are always the protagonists of the day.

Evelyn Carpenter is the author of the best-selling book, All you need for your marriage. A Marriage guide. She has been married for over 25 years and has helped countless couples build successful marriages. Evelyn is a sought after speaker and relationship expert, and has been featured in various media outlets including Fox News, Huffington Post, and more.