Your wedding day is one of the most special moments in life: surrounded by your loved ones, celebrating love, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Over the centuries, many customs have accompanied brides on this unique day. Some are well-known, others less so, but all carry a special meaning.

In this guide, we explore 10 bridal traditions, their origins, and the charm they still hold today.

Do you know what are the traditions of a bride on her wedding day?

1. The Color of the Dress

The white dress is now a classic, symbolizing purity, elegance, and sophistication. This tradition began with Queen Victoria in the 19th century when she chose to marry in a white gown instead of her finest dress in any color, as was customary. Since then, white has become the ideal bridal color, with Hollywood helping to cement its iconic image.

Fun fact: In some cultures, white did not always symbolize purity; for example, in Asia, it was associated with death and spirituality. Over time, however, Western influence introduced white as the standard wedding color.

2. The Veil

The veil has ancient roots: in ancient Rome, it was used to protect the bride from evil spirits and, at the time, it wasn’t white but red or yellow—colors believed to ward off negative energies.

Today, the veil is a style accessory that can be long, short, simple, or elaborate, depending on the bride’s personality. The length and type of veil can also influence the choice of earrings: for a long, sophisticated veil, delicate diamond drop earrings can complement the look without overshadowing the dress, adding an elegant and understated touch.

3. The Bridal Garter

The garter, worn under the dress around the knee, is a fun tradition that comes from the custom of tearing off a piece of the bride’s dress for good luck. Today, the bride tosses the garter, and the first guest to catch it is said to be the next to marry.

Fun fact: This practice originally emerged to protect the bride’s privacy and prevent guests from taking pieces of her gown as souvenirs. The modern garter has also become a decorative piece, often chosen in specific colors or with personalized details.

4. The Groom Cannot See the Bride Before the Ceremony

This custom began in arranged marriages to prevent the groom from changing his mind. Today, it’s more about creating a moment of surprise and emotion: seeing each other for the first time in wedding attire creates unforgettable memories and inspires the famous “first look” photos, increasingly popular in modern weddings.

Fun fact: In some cultures, this ritual remains intact even after years of dating, as a symbol of respect and anticipation for the commitment.

5. The Bridal Bouquet

Throwing the bouquet symbolizes the bride’s transition to her new life as a wife. Single guests compete to catch it, believing they will be the next to marry. This tradition has become one of the most memorable moments of the wedding, full of joy and excitement.

Fun fact: In some European regions, in addition to the bouquet, ribbons or small flowers were also tossed to the guests as a way to share blessings and prosperity.

6. Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue

Each element has a meaning: something old represents the past, something new symbolizes new beginnings, something borrowed carries the blessings of loved ones, and something blue stands for fidelity.

This is where subtle details can shine: the “something new” could be a delicate gold necklace or fine earrings from Moira Antique—an elegant detail that adds a personal, sophisticated touch to the look and becomes a keepsake for a lifetime.

7. The Wedding Coins (Arras)

The arras are 13 coins given by the groom to the bride as a symbol of prosperity and commitment. Their origin dates back to the Middle Ages, representing the promise to protect and provide for the couple.

Fun fact: In Spain and Latin America, this tradition is still a central part of the religious ceremony, and many brides keep the coins as a cherished family keepsake for years.

8. Pearls and Gemstones with Meaning

Traditionally, pearls symbolize love and elegance, though some brides avoid them due to superstition. Other gemstones, such as sapphires, emeralds, and diamonds, are used as symbols of fidelity, love, and hope.

Elegant touch: A pair of gemstone earrings or a ring can be a subtle way to honor these traditions without overwhelming the look, adding a sparkle that beautifully accompanies the ceremony.

9. The First Dance

The first dance symbolizes unity and shared love in front of the guests. Originating in 18th-century European courts, today each couple chooses the song that holds the most meaning for them.

Fun fact: While the waltz remains popular, many couples opt for modern rhythms or special lyrics, adapting this tradition to their personal style.

10. Throwing Rice, Petals, or Confetti

This tradition, which comes from the East, symbolizes wealth and fertility for the newlyweds. Nowadays, many weddings use petals or biodegradable confetti—a way to keep the custom while making it more practical and visually appealing.

Five Charming and Surprising European Traditions

1. “Planting the Sausage” (Scotland and England)

Originally from Scotland or the north of England, this curious custom involves burying a raw sausage the night before the wedding, with the intention of warding off rain and ensuring good weather the following day. Today, it has gone viral on TikTok, with many brides sharing it as a fun ritual to attract clear skies.

2. “Blackening the Bride” (Scotland)

Before the wedding, family and friends capture and cover the bride (sometimes the groom too) with food, dirt, feathers, and more, then parade them through the community. This “messy ceremony” symbolizes that if they can withstand this chaos, they will be able to overcome any difficulty together.

3. Polterabend (Germany and Central Europe)

On the eve of the wedding, guests gather for a party where they break porcelain, dishes, and even tiles, with the belief that “the shards bring good luck.” Afterwards, the couple must clean up the mess together as a symbol of collaboration and commitment in facing life’s challenges.

4. The Crown and Krevati (Greece)

Greek wedding rituals are rich in symbolism:

• In the Krevati, days before the wedding, the marital bed is decorated with petals, rice, and money, symbolizing prosperity and fertility.

• During the wedding ceremony, in the crowning ritual, symbolic crowns are placed on the couple and linked together by the officiant, representing their bond and lifelong commitment.

Did you know all these traditions?

Most of these traditions have endured over time because of their meaning and symbolism, even though many originated as superstitions or old customs. That’s why some brides choose to follow them to the letter, while others prefer to adapt them or skip them entirely—and still enjoy a day full of love and happiness.

At Moira Antique, we believe the most important thing is that your wedding reflects who you are and what makes you feel good. If a tradition appeals to you, embrace it your way; if you’d rather skip another, do so without guilt. The key is that every detail, from your dress to your accessories, makes you feel comfortable and authentic.

And if you want to add a special touch, our vintage jewelry in white and yellow gold, featuring diamonds and precious gemstones, can accompany you elegantly and subtly during those moments you want to remember forever.