5 Overlooked Wedding Traditions That Add Meaning and Romance to Your Special Day

Weddings are not just a union of two people; they are a beautiful blend of cultures, beliefs, and age-old customs that make each ceremony unique and special. While many couples choose to incorporate familiar traditions into their wedding day, some lesser-known practices can add significant meaning and romance to the occasion. At Eden Inspired Events we are always learning new things from our sweet couples and in this blog post, we will share five overlooked wedding traditions that might just inspire you to create a day filled with deep significance and cherished memories.

1.Tucking a Sugar Cube into Your Glove

In Greek culture, there is a charming tradition where brides tuck a sugar cube into their glove. This sweet gesture symbolizes the hope that the couple’s marriage will be filled with sweetness and joy. As the bride walks down the aisle, she carries not only the sugar cube but also the aspiration for a harmonious and loving union.

This small yet thoughtful addition to your wedding day could serve as a unique conversation starter and bring a dash of cultural significance to your special day. Plus, it is a delightful way to embrace your heritage or show appreciation for the traditions of others.

2.The Best Day to Marry: English Traditions

According to English tradition, certain days of the week are deemed more favorable for weddings than others. Wednesday is considered the "best day" to marry, while Monday is associated with wealth and Tuesday is linked to health. This belief has led many couples to embrace weekday weddings, especially with the growing trend of micro weddings that focus on intimacy and meaningful gatherings.

Choosing a weekday to tie the knot may not only reflect your desire to incorporate these rose-colored english traditions but also may make your sought-after wedding venue more attainable. With fewer events clamoring for attention on weekdays, you may find it easier to secure preferred venues and vendors.

Fun Facts about royal family members and the days they selected to be wed:

Prince Charles married Lady Diana Spencer (Princess Diana) on Wednesday - July 29, 1981

Princess Anne married Mark Phillips on Wednesday - November 14, 1973

Princess Elizabeth married Phillip Mountbatten on Thursday - November 20, 1947.

The younger generations have chosen a more modern feel and choose to be wed on Fridays and Saturdays.

3.Carrying The Bride Across the Threshold

One of the most recognized rituals in weddings is the groom carrying the bride across the threshold - but do you know why? Neither did we, but now it's one of our favorites!

Historically, this practice was rooted in the belief that the groom was protecting his bride from evil spirits that might lurk in the doorway, posing a danger as she entered her new home.

Though the fear of deviant forces has since faded, this beautiful tradition endures as a romantic and symbolic act. It marks the transition from single life to married life and sets a tone of care and protection in the relationship. The act itself can create a memorable moment (and great photo opp) that encapsulates the magic and excitement of the day, leaving both partners with a sense of connection and love.

4.Cutting The Wedding Cake - A Sweet Tradition

We all know about this tradition but here's the sweet meaning behind it. In traditional Italian wedding celebrations the bride and groom cut and feed each other the wedding cake as a beautiful symbol of unity and care for one another. This ritual signifies their willingness to share everything, including food and drink, as they begin their life together.

 The cake cutting tradition in Italy is often associated with various celebrations, particularly weddings but also birthdays. Here are some key aspects of this tradition:

• Symbolism: The cutting of the cake symbolizes the couple's first act of unity in a wedding, representing their shared life ahead.

• Sharing the Cake: After cutting the cake, it is customary for the couple to feed each other a piece, symbolizing their commitment to care for one another.

• Guests' Involvement: Guests often receive a piece of the wedding cake as a token of celebration, and it is common for the couple to save (and freeze) the top tier to later share on their first anniversary.

• Types of Cakes: Traditional Italian wedding cake is often made with layers of puff pastry, custard and fresh fruit. A popular choice is the Traditional Millefoglie wedding cake, which is often assembled in front of the guests as part of the cake cutting ceremony and delightful to experience.

  
  

Incorporating this meaningful tradition into a modern wedding could inspire couples to consider how they share their first moments together. Whether you opt for a traditional Millefoglie wedding cake or a more modern twist (like a dessert bar) be sure to share a bite together - strengthening  the bonds that surround your relationship - Intentionally caring for each other as God intended us to do.

5.Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue

Perhaps one of the most widely recognized wedding traditions, the phrase "something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue" carries profound significance.

• Something old symbolizes continuity, family history and a connection to the past. If you have a family heirloom that you can incorporate into your attire - that will add even more meaning to this already beautiful symbol of connection.

  
  

• Something new represents hope for the couple's future and the new life they are beggining together. Many brides consider their dress or another new piece of attire their "something new."

  
  

• Something borrowed is a token from a happily married person, meant to transfer their joy to the new couple.

  
  

• Something blue represents fidelity and love, adding an element of protection to the union. Many modern brides are opting to wear blue shoes - filling this part of the traditional ritual.

  
  

Brides can incorporate these tokens in various ways, from wearing vintage jewelry to placing a blue ribbon on their bouquet. Not only does this time-honored tradition create depth in the wedding ceremony, but it also allows for creativity and expression unique to each couple's story.

Embracing Wedding Traditions

Embracing wedding traditions can lend a deeper significance to your special day, helping you connect with your own heritage while celebrating your unique love story. From tucking a sugar cube into your glove to following the beloved custom of something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue, these traditions highlight the romance and meaning behind your vows.

As you plan your wedding, consider how these overlooked customs can enrich your experience and deepen your connection with each other and your families. After all, your wedding day is not only about the celebration; it’s about creating a tapestry of memories that will last a lifetime. By adopting elements with cultural significance, you can truly make your wedding day one of a kind, filled with love, laughter, and heartfelt tradition.