Something Old, New, Borrowed & Blue: The Why's and How-to's of this Timeless Tradition

Something Old, New, Borrowed & Blue: 

The Why's and How-to's of this Timeless Tradition

Where did this tradition come from?

This tradition originated with an Old English rhyme.  The rhyme goes something like, "Something Olde, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue, A Sixpence in your Shoe."  Hence-forth, these four objects that the bride adds to her wedding outfit or carries with her on the big day have just been considered to be good luck charms.  Something old is representative of continuity, or the link between the bride and her family.  Something new is considered optimism for the future and is representative of the new union the bride and groom are creating together.  Something borrowed is meant to symbolize happiness borrowed, or the support that family and friends will lend to the new couple.  Something blue is reminiscent of purity, fidelity and utmost love.  And lastly, and most often omitted, the sixpence in your shoe means a wish for good fortune; however, this tends to remain a British custom.

What can I use for something old?

-A locket with family pictures

-A vintage garter

-An old poetry book or Bible

-A vintage car

What can I use for something new?

-Lingerie—This could be an opportunity to take advantage of and treat yourself with something you would not usually buy.

-A "new name"—Have you initials embroidered on your gown.

-Your dress—You do not have to over think when thinking of your something new item.  It really can be as simple as your new wedding dress in itself.

What can I use for something borrowed?

-Words—If there's a passage that really speaks to your relationship and circumstances, "borrow" a portion of these words for your own ceremony

-A cake knife

-Rent a luxury bag—The website that was made famous by the Sex and the City's first feature film could set you up in style for your "Something Borrowed" needs.  Follow this link to shop: Bag Borrow or Steal!

-Jewelry—Jewelry is always a wonderful go to for something borrowed as well!  Ask family members from both sides, as well as close friends!

What can I use for something blue?

-Pale blue nail polish—This can be beautiful when kept simple; you don't want to take away from the rest of your ensemble.  

-Blue embroidery—Kill 2 birds with one stone and have the stitching be your "new name".

-Blue bridesmaids' dresses

-Blue flowers—You could incorporate these in your hair or in your bouquet.

-"Something Blue" perfume by Oscar De La Renta

LeAnna Poe Wedding Dress Story Podcast

LeAnna Poe Wedding Dress Story Podcast

A Weekend in Chattanooga

If you're looking for the perfect weekend for your out-of-town guest to get a taste of the real Scenic City, look no further! We have put together the perfect 3-day weekend guide to make sure your guests see the best of the best!

Friday Afternoon:

After traveling to Chattanooga to celebrate your special day, your guests are sure to want to wind down, or should we say, "wine" down! Make reservations for your out-of-town guests to have a glass of wine at Tony's Pasta Shop & Trattoria in the Bluff View Art District. There, they can also enjoy historic Chattanooga, breathtaking views of the Tennessee River as well walk through the entire Bluff View Art District- the perfect spot for all ages. However, you can't go to Tony's Pasta without trying their hand cut pastas! After your rehearsal dinner, pop in to see your guests and let them know your must-have Tony's plate! 

But wait, there's more!  Tony's is not all the this area has to offer.  There are so many great restaurants in the area, such as, Back Inn Cafe, Rembrandts coffee shop.  The Bluff View Art District definitely fits its name featuring stores and galleries and offers an impressive, outdoor sculpture garden. It is also situated steps from the Hunter Museum.

Southside is another good option for dinner or play. The Flying Squirrel, FEED, STIR, Alleia and the Terminal are all some of Chattanooga's most favored restaurants and bars that are right next to the Chattanooga Choo Choo.  Southside has a great night life too, so your Friday night with your out-of-town guests does not have to come to a quick close.  Just don't make it too long of a night, because you've got a big day in the morning!

Click here to find directions and menus!

Saturday Morning:

While you're getting dolled up, it's a must for your guests to grab brunch at The Bitter Alibi on Houston Street! They'll be greeted with mouthfuls of southern flavor with a creative twist! Once they've filled their bellies to the brim and enjoyed a Mimosa (or two) they can spend an hour or two shopping just down the road on Warehouse Row.  Featuring stores like Anthropologie, J. Crew, and Yves Delorme, the Row has a great selection, but he building's historical architecture with modern touches make it a sight to see all in itself!

Click here to find a list of stores Warehouse Row features!

Saturday Afternoon:

While shopping in Warehouse Row can be exciting, make sure your guests know to save some time for the award winning Tennessee Aquarium! They'll see exhibits all the way from the mountains to the sea! The River Otter Falls, Penguins Rock, and Alligator Bayou won't disappoint! If you have a few guests that are more for the delicate side of wildlife, the Butterfly Garden exhibit filled with exotic flowers will be their favorite spot! Before they know it, it'll be time to put their dancing shoes on and head to the main event- your wedding!

Sunday Morning:

We are sure your guests will have had such a great, long Saturday night, they may want to skip breakfast and shoot for brunch! And we know just the place! Adelle's Creperie is a brunch must! Their savory crepes are made to order and extremely customizable. They also have a lean list of omelettes and a few southern favorites such as waffles!

Sunday Afternoon:

Before your guests head home, you must encourage them to head up the mountain to check out Rock City! It's a wonder of nature featuring large ancient rock formations, over 400 plant species, and a panoramic view where they can see 7 states! If walking around enjoying all Rock City has to offer makes them work up an appetite, no worries! They don't even have to leave the park because they can enjoy a hot lunch at the Big Rock Grille where hamburgers, sandwiches, and chicken fingers are the norm!

Consider creating a special RSVP card for each activity that way you'll know ahead of time who would like to attend so you can call ahead to get discounted group prices! Another fun treat for your guests is a weekend welcome letter that lists the itinerary of the eventful weekend to come.

If you have many out-of-town guests, consider joining them on a few of these Chattanooga adventures to get as much quality time in as possible and to let them know just how much you appreciate them making the trip!

Happy Planning!

Soirées