Sometimes we blindly believe things. Not because they’re rooted in logic, fact or scientific evidence; but simply because we just do.
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If you’re one of those people, then keep reading.
Weddings are one of the most important events in a person’s life, which means they’re steeped in traditions, dripping with emotion and drowned in superstition. We’ve done the hard work finding these weird and wonderful superstitions so you can relax and make sure your wedding day goes off without a hitch!
1. Tears on the Big Day
A bride who cries on her Wedding day is supposedly a lucky one, as she’s just shed all her tears and will cry no more throughout her Marriage. This explains why some Chinese brides (not all) intentionally cry for an hour every day in the month leading up to their wedding. So, pack on that waterproof mascara, ladies.
2. Spider on the Dress
Found a spider in the folds of your gown? Take a deep breath ladies, step away and google some English folklore. Because according to that, finding a hairy eight-legged creature on your immaculate gown is a good omen.
3. Spit it Out
In both Greek and Kenyon traditions, spitting upon the bride and groom is considered a blessing and a well-known custom.
4. Peas, Anyone?
Legend has it Czech newlyweds were showered in black-eyed peas or lentils instead of rice following the ceremony. Locals believed this would ensure fertility for the newlyweds.
5. Cross-Dressing
Believe it or not, Danish couples would historically cross-dress on their wedding day in order to confuse evil spirits. Or maybe dressing normally was just too mainstream.
6. Your Surnames Must Start with Different Letters
So many ways to be cursed with bad luck. The saying goes, “To change the name and not the letter, is to change for the worst and not the better.” And if it rhymes, it must be true. Right?
7. A Coloured Gown Can Bring it all Down
No, we’re not done rhyming just yet. “Married in red, you will wish yourself dead” apparently, regardless of Chinese, Indian, Pakistani and Vietnamese cultures where the colour is symbolic of good luck. “Married in yellow, ashamed of your fellow. Married in green, ashamed to be seen. Married in pink, your spirit will sink. Married in grey, you will go far away. Married in black, you will wish yourself back.” Given the pastel gown trend, it seems Brides aren’t too concerned about this one.
8. Get Married on Wednesday
Yes, the Poms believe hump day is actually the best day to tie the knot. And no, it’s not so you can spam Instagram with all your pics like a throwback Thursday marathon the day after. Saturday is supposed to be the worst day for a wedding (though ironically remains the most in demand). They also believe Monday is for wealth and Tuesday is for health so… This one’s a doozy.
9. Break Stuff
Several cultures speak of a custom where the bride and groom shatter a plate, cup or vase after exchanging rings or at the end of the ceremony. Each shard supposedly represents the number of happy years the couple will spend together. So smash it up good guys.
10. Bury the Bourbon
Southern folklore recommends burying a bottle of Bourbon, upside down, at the wedding site exactly one month before the wedding to ensure it doesn’t rain on the big day. Don’t panic though, it’s not a total waste of good liquor. You’re allowed to dig it up and enjoy it post ceremony (after the weather, checks out).
