What Does a Bride Put in Her Shoe? Essential Items for Good Luck and Sentiment

On your wedding day, you might wonder what special items a bride traditionally places in her shoe. Many brides carry a penny, or a special coin, in their shoe as a symbol of good fortune and prosperity in their marriage. This sweet tradition is part of the larger custom of “something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue,” which signifies bringing blessings and positivity into your new life.

In addition to a penny, some brides also receive coins from their parents. In Sweden, for example, the bride’s mother gives her a gold coin for the right shoe and the father offers a silver coin for the left. These coins represent a lifelong blessing of wealth and happiness together. Just like these traditions, adding personalized elements to your wedding day can make it even more meaningful.

As you prepare for your big day, consider incorporating these traditions into your attire. Placing a coin in your shoe may bring not just good luck but also a touch of heartwarming history to your celebration.

The Tradition of the Sixpence

The tradition of placing a sixpence in a bride’s shoe holds a deep historical significance and has adapted over time. This practice not only represents a wish for prosperity but also reflects various family traditions.

Historical Significance

The custom of using a sixpence dates back to the Victorian era in Britain. It symbolizes good luck and wealth, making it a popular choice for brides. Traditionally, a father would place a silver sixpence in his daughter’s left shoe before she walks down the aisle. This gesture is meant to bless her marriage and wish her abundant joy.

Over the years, many stories have emerged around this tradition. The sixpence is often included in the rhyme “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, and a silver sixpence in her shoe.” This demonstrates the coin’s important role in wedding customs.

Modern Interpretations

In today’s weddings, the sixpence may still hold a place in various ceremonies, though its literal use has softened. Some brides choose to represent the sixpence creatively, such as incorporating it into their jewelry.

While not every bride places an actual coin in her shoe today, the sentiment behind the tradition remains. The sixpence still embodies wishes for prosperity and happiness. Many families continue to pass down this tradition as a cherished cultural practice, keeping it alive for future generations.

By including this charm in your big day, you honor a rich history while embracing your own unique love story.

Incorporating the Sixpence Today

Including a sixpence in your shoe is a lovely way to embrace tradition and add a personal touch to your wedding. This custom can bring good luck and serve as a reminder of well-wishes from loved ones.

Choosing the Right Coin

When selecting a coin for your shoe, you have options. A silver sixpence is the classic choice, symbolizing wealth and prosperity. If you prefer something different, you might want a gold coin, which also carries a positive meaning. Some brides like to use a special keepsake coin that represents their family or heritage.

Consider visiting antique shops or jewelry stores for a unique coin that has a story behind it. Choose a coin that resonates with you and feels meaningful. Many brides also opt for replicas if they want to keep the original coin safe.

Creative Ways to Wear the Sixpence

Wearing the sixpence can be both fun and stylish. You can slip the coin into your wedding shoes for the ceremony. To make it special, consider attaching it to a small fabric pouch and pinning it inside your dress.

Another great idea is to incorporate the coin into your bouquet or as part of your something borrowed. This way, you get to keep the tradition alive while making it truly your own. Remember, the sixpence is not just about luck; it’s a lovely keepsake that can bring good memories for years to come.

Something Old, New, Borrowed, and Blue

This heartwarming tradition involves four important items that symbolize your journey into marriage. Each item has a unique meaning, connecting you to your past, bringing good fortune, and representing hope for the future.

Symbolism of Each Item

Something Old: This piece represents continuity and the love from your family. It can be a family heirloom, like an old locket or a piece of jewelry. It symbolizes your roots and the support of those before you.
Something New: This item represents optimism and hope for your new life together. It could be your wedding dress or a new piece of jewelry. It symbolizes the new beginnings and dreams you are building with your partner.
Something Borrowed: This item is usually lent from a happily married friend or family member. It symbolizes borrowed happiness and serves as a token of luck and prosperity for your marriage.
Something Blue: Blue is linked to fidelity and love. Incorporating blue into your attire can be as simple as a blue garter or a piece of jewelry. It carries the hope for a faithful union.

Incorporation into Wedding Attire

You can creatively integrate these symbols into your wedding day style.

Something Old: Sew a small piece from a family member’s clothing into your gown or carry a vintage clutch.
Something New: Your wedding dress serves as the perfect new element. You might also consider a new pair of shoes or stunning jewelry.
Something Borrowed: Wearing borrowed jewelry from a close friend adds sentimental value. It connects your special day to those who have shared their love stories.
Something Blue: Opt for a beautiful blue bridal bouquet or a blue ribbon sewn inside your dress.

These meaningful elements can enhance your wedding attire, making it more personal and enriched with tradition.

Beyond the Sixpence

While the sixpence is a cherished tradition, there are other meaningful items brides can choose to place in their shoes. These alternative good luck charms and personal touches reflect your unique story and values.

Other Wedding Good Luck Charms

Many brides opt for additional good luck charms besides the sixpence. These items can enhance the sentiment of your special day. Some popular choices include:

A Silver Dollar or Coin: Symbolizes wealth and prosperity. Placing it in your shoe adds a touch of tradition.
Lucky Horseshoe: Often made of metal, this charm is thought to bring good fortune. You can pin it inside your shoe or carry it discreetly.
Personalized Notes: A small note from a loved one offering love and support can be comforting. Slip it into your shoe for a special connection.

A Touch of Personal Heritage

Incorporating elements of your personal heritage can add depth to your wedding day. This connection to your family history enhances the celebration.

Many brides choose to include specific tokens that represent their culture. For example:

Cultural Coins or Tokens: These might reflect significant traditions in your family. Some cultures have specific coins associated with weddings.
Family Heirlooms: Wearing a piece of jewelry or fabric from a family member can honor those who came before you.

This practice emphasizes continuity and highlights the importance of family values and traditions. When your wedding guests see these personal touches, it creates a deeper understanding of your love story.