Irish wedding bell tradition then and now

Did you know ringing of wedding bells began with an Irish wedding bell tradition? Yes the ringing of church bells goes back to a tradition when the bells were sounded to ward off evil spirits to make a happy family life for the bride and groom certain, but this wedding tradition goes back even farther -- before church bells -- to the Irish wedding bell.
 

Irish Wedding Bell Tradition

The Irish wedding bell tradition began with the Irish family giving the couple a set of bells after they recited their vows. And like the bridal veil tradition, the bells were rung to ward off evil spirits. After they were married, the wedding bells were kept in the couple’s home to remind them of their vows to each other.

Irish Wedding Bell

Why it is called the Irish make up bell

Today, the Irish wedding bell makes a great wedding gift for Irish couples and even those who aren't Irish. The custom is to place the bell in a prominent place in the newlywed’s home, and if/when the couple happens to argue they ring the bell as a reminder of their wedding vows. According to this custom, if the argument can’t be settled affably, the bell is rung louder for these reasons:

• The sound of the bell can purify and dispel over stimulated emotions. 
• The result is supposed to be a change in perspective. 
• The sounding of the bell signals the end of the argument, even if neither the husband or wife capitulated. It offers the equivalent of a “time out” in the “discussion,” and allows time for both people to cool down and think rationally. 

For this reason, it is also known as the Irish make up bell.

Waterford Irish Wedding Bell

Irish wedding bell tradition rejuvenated

The Irish wedding bell remains an endearing wedding tradition with its origins in an old superstition. Today it can be celebrated in a number of ways. Some couples give their guests small bells at the ceremony to be rung after the vows are completed, or at the reception to be used as kissing bells. Some brides choose to wear a small bracelet or charm with tiny bells. All of these offer ways to include this tradition in your special day, but having an Irish wedding bell on display in your home offers a special keepsake marking the couple’s Irish heritage and the special vows exchanged that day. And even if you're not Irish, having a make up bell handy in your home can help remind you of what's really important when you have a falling out.

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Why do we throw rice at weddings?

Throwing rice used to be a popular wedding tradition but it’s one we’ve stepped away from more and more in modern times for a number of reasons, including the fact that it isn’t allowed in most venues. Originally guests threw oats, grains, dried corn, (for Czech newlyweds it was peas), and eventually it was rice. Showering the newlyweds with this “life-giving” seed was meant to shower the couple with good fortune, prosperity, and fertility.

 

One of the reasons rice isn’t thrown much today is due to an urban legend which says rice is harmful to birds, but this has been proven false. The story speculated that the rice expanded in the birds’ stomachs and caused our feathered friends to explode. In 1985 a Connecticut state legislator even introduced a bill to outlaw the practice and those caught throwing rice would be fined $50.

Other issues with throwing hard grain is that it can actually hurt, get in your ears, poke your eyes, etc. If people toss the grain underhand it gently showers the bride and groom, but when hurled like a major-league pitcher, with speed and purpose, it hurts.

Keep the traditional symbolism without the rice

If you like the traditional symbolism associated with throwing “life-giving” seed to wish the newly married couple good luck as they leave the church, there are a variety of other options. Probably the most popular is birdseed or sunflower seeds. While these are bird-friendly options, like rice these can hurt if thrown with vigor and be slippery on sidewalks creating a slipping hazard. For those wishing to avoid that risk, some people have turned to blowing bubbles, but this too can be really slippery if done indoors as bubbles from so many well-wishers land on the floor and pop creating a soapy film, so be careful.

Other options include flower petals, which can provide beautiful color for some stunning wedding pictures. I’ve also seen people release butterflies (which dates back to the 90s), but environmentalists point out that this will cause an imbalance to the ecosystem.

So what is the best alternative to throwing rice at a wedding? They make biodegradable confetti which is lightweight, comes in color or white, and falls gracefully which makes for great wedding photos -- plus it dissolves when it rains so there’s no mess to clean up. That's a big plus in my book.

 

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Image Sources: dmitrimarkine.com, Amazon

Ideas for something old, new, borrowed and blue

Today many brides follow the tradition of wearing something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue. Every wonder why? It's a wedding tradition that comes from an Old English rhyme which originated in England in the late 19th century:

Something olde,

Something new,

Something borrowed,

Something blue,

A sixpence in your shoe.

The four objects commonly added to the bride’s wedding attire or what she carries with her on the big day are historically just good luck charms. Don't stress too much about them. You can easily accomplish this by keeping the items small and hanging them from the bridal bouquet. For instance, you can include an old photograph borrowed from a family member, tied with a blue ribbon and you’ll have old, new, borrowed, and blue all in the bouquet. Or for a really easy option, you can purchase a trinket that can be pinned or clicked into place.

Light Blue Simulated Pearl, Double Heart, Blue Crystal, and Six Pence Bridal Pin

Why do brides wear something old, new, borrowed and blue?

While this practice belongs to wedding traditions thought to bring good luck, it is only fair to point out that each of the items in the popular rhyme has its own meaning or blessing (and only one has anything to do with luck). 

Old represents continuity

New signifies optimism

Borrowed item stands for happiness

Blue symbolizes love, purity, and fidelity

Sixpence in your shoe is a wish for good fortune and prosperity (largely a British custom)

Most of the time the Maid of Honor is the one responsible for making sure the bride is equipped with these items, but it can be fun to include members of the family too.

Ideas for something old, new, borrowed and blue

Including family or other loved ones in this wedding tradition adds an element of sentiment that will become part of your own wedding lore. For instance, go to your mom or sister for something borrowed. And for something old, have dad pull out an old photo of the two of you or a baby picture of you from his wallet just before you walk down the aisle. And ask a brother or uncle or close male family friend to come up with something blue. In this way, it’s more like a wedding scavenger hunt and a great way to create a special memory unique to your wedding story.

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Source: pixabay.com, etsy

What did weddings look like the year you were born?

When it comes to weddings, those of us who have been around for a while can look at a photo and guess the era of the wedding based on how the bride, groom, and bridal party is dressed and of course hairstyles.

1960s bride and groom

While on Facebook today, I came across a slideshow that takes a look at bridal fashion starting back in 1916. It's a fun overview that includes interesting tidbits of history and wedding traditions. Enjoy the 100-year journey! And if you're considering a vintage wedding, it's a perfect resource.

Wasp waistlines and billowing skirts of the 50s

Wedding dresses like this one pictured in 1929 represent typical wedding dress style of the era, but by the 1950s designs evolved to include billowing skirts and wasp-waist designs. As an example of a wasp-waste the waistline, Elizabeth Taylor's wedding dress waist measured 20 inches!

Home wedding receptions of the 60s and 70s

By the 1960s, wedding dress designs became sleeker but cakes grew fancier. In the 60s and 70s it was still common to hold a wedding reception at someone's house, but as wedding traditions continued to evolve along with the dresses in the decades following, the wedding ceremony, venue, and reception grew increasingly extravagant...and expensive.

1929 wedding

Even in the 70s it wasn't unusual for a family member or close friend to make a wedding dress as a way to save money. Back then, fabric was way cheaper. To put it into perspective, malls were still a brand-new concept at the time. Another way to save was to order your dress through one of the catalogs like J.C. Penney, Sears, or Montgomery Wards. This was also a great place to order bridesmaids dresses especially when the wedding party lived in different states.

Photo credits: Pixbay, wikipedia

Newer wedding trends and traditions

In my last post, we explored some of today’s most popular wedding traditions. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at new practices that are emerging as traditions in their own right. After all, every tradition starts somewhere! For example, the tradition of wedding flowers began in ancient Rome, when brides carried herbs beneath their veils to ward off evil spirits and ensure fertility and fidelity. Similarly, ancient Greek brides used ivy to symbolize lasting love.

 

The Evolution of Wedding Flowers

Over time, flowers have become an essential part of weddings. Today, we have flower girls, bridal bouquets, pew decorations, corsages for the parents, reception arrangements, and more. Wedding flowers are big business, and each bloom often carries its own meaning. For instance, the rose is a perennial favorite: red for passion, white for purity, yellow for friendship and joy, and pink for admiration.

Modern couples, however, are redefining floral traditions. While classic white remains popular, brides increasingly embrace bold colors, single-flower arrangements, or monochromatic palettes. Bridesmaids’ bouquets no longer need to match the bridal bouquet, and thanks to global flower sourcing, seasonal restrictions no longer limit floral choices. A bride can now have stargazer lilies in a winter wedding, bringing fragrance and elegance year-round.

Other trends include incorporating dried flowers, pampas grass, or even succulents into bouquets and centerpieces, adding texture and a modern, sustainable twist.

Wedding Dances: First Dance and Family Dances

Traditionally, the bride and groom’s first dance, as well as the father-daughter or mother-son dances, were slow and sentimental. Today, couples are putting a modern spin on these moments. Some opt for choreographed routines to upbeat music—think salsa, tango, or even TikTok-inspired dance moves.

Family dances are also evolving. Instead of strictly dancing with their fathers, brides may choose to dance with mothers, stepfathers, siblings, or other significant people. Another fun twist is the “anniversary dance,” where all married couples join the dance floor, and couples are gradually eliminated until the longest-married couple remains.

 

Rethinking Bouquet and Garter Tosses

The classic bouquet toss is slowly being replaced by more meaningful alternatives. Many brides now gift their bouquet to a parent or a loved one as a sentimental keepsake rather than tossing it to single friends.

Similarly, the garter toss is evolving. Couples are creating kid-friendly alternatives, such as tossing a soft teddy bear or wrapped candies so younger guests can participate safely and enjoyably.

 

Personalized Touches

Personalized escort cards are becoming increasingly popular. Couples write a small thank-you note to each guest on their place card, combining a warm gesture with a practical function—and giving guests a keepsake to remember the day.

Signature Drinks

A modern wedding trend is offering a signature drink during cocktail hour. It’s a fun way to reflect the couple’s personality, and creative names add a playful touch. Non-alcoholic options are also trending, ensuring everyone can join in the fun.

Slideshow and Interactive Media

Couples are increasingly using slideshows to entertain guests. These often start with childhood photos and follow the couple’s journey to their engagement. Some modern couples even include short video clips or interactive elements, turning the slideshow into a storytelling experience rather than just a photo montage.

Modern Wedding Mantra: Anything Goes

The newest wedding “tradition” is that there are no strict rules. Couples are personalizing every element of their wedding, from flowers to dances, gifts, and décor. The focus is on creating a day that reflects their personalities and shared journey, rather than adhering strictly to tradition.

Whether you’re planning a classic ceremony or a completely unconventional celebration, today’s weddings are all about creativity, connection, and fun.

(updated Aug. 2025) 

Photo credits: Pixbay, piqsels, Viemo