You can find timeless wedding traditions in multiple cultures around the world. From henna-painted hands and hand-binding cermonies to smashing glass or jumping over a broom, such details truly make a wedding unique for each couple. However, there are a handful of vintage wedding practices that never seem to go out of style.

Tying cans on the wedding getaway car

Some say the timless wedding tradition of tying cans to a getaway car originated from the French folk custom known as charivari, where guests would celebrate newlyweds by making a ruckus and banging on pots and pans. The custom evolved over the years, and by the time wedding guests started tying strings of tin cans onto the bumper, they would also decorate the car with “Just Married” signs so bystanders and other passing vehicles would raise noise for the newlyweds.

“…and a sixpence in her shoe”

Many of us are familiar with the wedding-day rhyme that goes, “Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.” But did you know there was a final line?  In the old days, a bride’s father would gift her a lucky coin to slip into her shoe on her wedding day. It is said to symbolize wealth and good fortune for newlyweds.

An Arch of Sabers

The arch of swords is a time-honored military wedding tradition that originated in England and is often practiced in America today. It symbolizes a pledge of loyalty to newlyweds from their military family. Even though the day was a bit wet and overcast, this couple still had a beautiful wedding. During this traditional military wedding, the couple exited the ceremony and entered the reception beneath an archway of sabers held over their heads by fellow military members. No matter what timeless wedding traditions you practice, White Mountains Photo Pro will capture every special moment for you with glorious wedding photos.