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Something Old, Something New...

Something Old, Something New...


Alison Hargreaves Guides for Brides Bio
Alison Hargreaves Updated:
8th of March 2023
We've all heard of the 'old, new, borrowed, blue' traditions - but what do they mean? And how can we transform them from 18th century to 21st?\nSomething OldA symbol of continuity, something old traditionally has a link to the Bride's family. \nModern twist: Incorporate a relative's broach into your wedding bouquet or hair up-do.\n
Broach-bouquet-wedding
Something NewRepresenting optimism and good luck for the Bride's new married life.Modern twist: Engraved champagne flutes for you and your hubby-to-be. Christened on your wedding day and used for numerous toasts throughout your married life. 
champagne-glasses-wedding-couple
Something Borrowed\nTraditionally an item coming from a happily married friend or relative, symbolising some 'borrowed happiness' to be carried into the Bride's own marriage.\nModern twist: If you know an inspirational couple, why not 'borrow' the song that they used for their first dance.\n
first-dance-wedding
Something BlueRepresenting purity, love and fidelity.Modern twist: Hire some wedding transport in the form of a blue MINI for example.
mini-car
Did you know? Although today, the 'something' tradition remains as a stand alone four, it originally contained another addition - 'and a sixpence in your shoe.' The sixpence represents good fortune.\nFor more inspiration on how to modernise this old tradition check out the board we put together on Pinterest
Alison Hargreaves Guides for Brides Bio

About the author


Alison Hargreaves

Alison has been advising brides, grooms and bridesmaids for more than 25 years. She has an unrivalled knowledge of the British wedding industry and frequently appears on podcasts and expert panels. She regularly attends international wedding conferences to keep the UK at the forefront of wedding planning trends.

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