The Traditions of the Western World

There are numerous traditions practiced before, during and after the wedding.  Grooms are given their bachelor’s party or stag party which is his way of saying goodbye to the carefree days of bachelorhood.  Brides have their bridal showers which are meant to strengthen the friendship between the bride and her friends while giving her moral support and assistance in preparation for her marriage.

The wedding is followed by a reception that would often feature an elaborate cake.  Western traditions include the toast for the happy couple, the first dance of the newly weds, cutting of the cake, throwing of the bride’s bouquet and garter.  It is believed that the unmarried man or woman who catches the garter and the bouquet will be the next to wed, but not necessarily to each other.

A relatively modern tradition is for the bride to wear or carry “something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue” during the service.  To do so is considered good luck.  Something old represents the link between the bride’s family and the past such as a piece of antique family jewelry.  Something new represents good fortune and success in the bride’s new life and the wedding gown is often the item of choice.  Something borrowed serves as a reminder to the bride that friends and family will be there for her when help is needed.  A lace handkerchief from a happily married woman usually serves this purpose.  Something blue is the symbol of faithfulness and loyalty.  The garter is often the chosen blue item.