A Charming Wedding Tradition for Your Walk Down the Aisle
If you’re panicking that “something borrowed” at your wedding means you have to ask your brother for some cash, relax: The expression, from the Victorian-era saying “Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue,” has retained a traditional and superstitious hold on modern brides. (Trivia buffs note: The original poem ended with “and a silver sixpence in her shoe.”) Each element has significance, and the “borrowed” portion relates to a happily married friend or relative, in hopes that her good fortune will be passed on to you. It’s also been suggested that borrowing something means you can rely on your loved ones for support in your new life.
The Maid of Honor, while not responsible for providing these items, often makes sure the bride has them covered. As for finding something borrowed, one of the best sources is Mom. The biggie, of course, is the dress, which makes for a wonderful borrowed item. As fashions and sizes change, however, it’s not always practical. You might borrow a favorite brooch or family heirloom—Mom’s often like to let you borrow something her mom wore at her own wedding.
Dads can get in on the action too. You can go big and borrow his country-club membership (for the ceremony), or aim for something a little smaller and borrow his favorite song for the father/daughter dance. Another parental idea are flowers from their garden, either in centerpieces or tucked in your hair or bouquet. If your sister’s in the ceremony, maybe you can borrow that favorite shawl of hers, or the bracelet you’ve always loved.
Borrowing something from your Maid or Matron of Honor is a wonderful way to acknowledge your love and respect for her. Don’t be surprised if she, like other close friends and relatives, wants to loan you something to show her support. Maybe she has a lucky charm you can wear, or some other precious keepsake. She could also do something more lavish, like loaning you her beach house for either the honeymoon or your first night as a married couple. If you’re transit-bound, she, or another friend, can provide a ritzy automobile.
The important thing to remember about “Something Borrowed” is that it can come from anyone, be big or small, personal or elaborate, symbolic or functional. One more thing: It should be from, and sometimes worn on, the heart.