1. A piece of jewelry that belonged to a loved one who is no longer with you
This can be a necklace, ring, or earrings, and it will serve as a reminder of that person and the love they shared with you. It can warn as a piece of jewelry, worked into your bouquet, or even sewn into your dress or veil depending on the size and style. What a beautiful way to keep the memory of loved ones who have passed!
2. A handkerchief
This can be used to wipe away happy tears or to keep your hands dry during the ceremony. It could also be embroidered with your initials or wedding date as a keepsake. At this wedding, the mother of the bride requested a handkerchief embroidered with "Mother" be wrapped around her bouquet to carry with her down the aisle. It's not just brides that can participate in carrying these sweet details!
3. A charm or locket
This will serve as a reminder of those who are unable to be there with you on your special day. Whether they couldn't attend your wedding due to distance or due to passing, this is a wonderful way to keep them close to you as you start your new life with your partner!
4. A penny in your shoe
I love this one! "And a Sixpence in her left shoe" is an Irish wedding tradition that's becoming more and more popular in the United States. Traditionally, the Sixpence is placed in the Bride's left shoe before walking down the aisle as a good luck wedding ceremony coin. Here in the US, the penny, head side up, is a good luck token. Brides will place one in their right shoe for their walk down the aisle to bring prosperity and good fortune. The date on the penny can even be chosen with care to recognize your wedding year. Some brides will choose to keep the penny to pass down to their daughter to carry with her at her wedding, thus creating a family heirloom out of something ordinary.
5. A special piece of fabric or lace
This can be a piece of your mother's wedding dress or a piece of lace from your grandmother's dress, which can serve as a reminder of your family history and heritage. I've seen this done with the bridal bouquet like when my sister wrapped her bouquet with our grandfather's handkerchief, as well as sewn into the train of the wedding gown. A groom can even take part in this tradition by tucking the sentimental piece in the pocket of his suit coat in leu of pocket square.
6. A FAMILY HEIRLOOM
A brooch or a watch that has been passed down through generations will give you a touch of tradition on your wedding day. The grandmother of the bride gifted this bride her brooch specifically for her wedding day. Whether your heirloom is newer or generations old, carrying something that represents a family legacy can be a powerful and beautiful detail to add to your walk!
7. A special piece of jewelry
A special piece of jewelry, such as a ring or necklace, that has sentimental value, can be a reminder of a special moment, reminder or memory. On my wedding day, I wore a Sapphire ring that my mother gave me on my 16th birthday that her mother gave her on her 16th. Not only was it a beautiful reminder of two incredible women in my life, but also a reminder of their beautiful marriages. Having her ring with me as I walked down the aisle was a small token of my appreciation and admiration to two women who were instrumental in the person I am today.
Before your wedding day arrives, be sure to set aside some time to think of what details you would like to include in your day. It's by no means a "must," but adding these small touches can translate into beautiful photos, family heirlooms, and memories that you'll cherish for years and years. Don't overthink it, and don't be discouraged if you can't think of something to include. This is your day, so do what makes you smile!
