Sneak Peek: Josh and Julia

Tradition plays a pivotal role in all cultures. And no where is this fact more evident then in a marriage ceremony. This last weekend I attended the wedding of Josh and Julia and was witness to their participation on many different traditions. Some, old, some new, at least a few borrowed, and yes, one was blue.

Let’s work backwards shall we? Julia’s garter became her something blue, but with a twist. The police car, badge and handcuffs represented Josh and his job as Deputy Sheriff. Additionally, Julia carried a few good luck charms with her under her skirt. A pin from her great grandmother and namesake, rings that had been passed down, and a few other sentimental tokens.

Last of all, she added a sixpence coin to her shoe. All of these rituals made me start to think about the meaning  of these somewhat obtuse rituals. So I did my homework. Here’s what I found:

“Something old” is a reminder of the bride’s link to her ancestors.

“Something new” is a wish for good fortune and success in the future. The bride often chooses the wedding gown to fill this category.

“Something borrowed” usually comes from a happily married woman and is thought to give  good luck to the new bride.

“Something blue” is a symbol of love, fidelity.
A sixpence in her shoe is to insure wealth and prosperity for the future. In this instance those shoes will a killer shade of pink!

Julia and Josh also chose to do a “First Look”. This is an emerging and distinctly American tradition that has been brought to popularity by other wedding photographers like myself. Gone are the days when seeing the bride before the ceremony was a thought to be bad luck. Today’s couples instead, enjoy the quiet heartfelt moment together in which they can express their excitement for the impending nuptials and say what is in their heart. Plus, it’s a giant stress relief!

Many of our modern traditions are a twist on older one’s inherited from relatives who could only bring their way of life to this country when they immigrated. As America grows older, I suspect many of the traditions carried by these stalwart progenitors will be preformed along with unique American born rights of passage that are now reaching maturity, just like the couples themselves.

**Update**

As promised, a video of my favorite photos from Josh and Julia’s wedding. If you would like to purchase a copy please use the paypal button below and a DVD will be sent to you!