Weddingbee Blog

According to some sources, there is a lesser known line that finishes the “something old, something new” rhyme. In its entirety, the poem was originally as follows:

Something old, something new,

Something borrowed, something blue,

And a silver sixpence in her shoe.

There are some doubts about the authenticity of the last line. It may have been a Scottish custom that was tacked onto the tail of the traditional poem, but it was originally believed that if a bride were to place a silver sixpence in her left shoe, she would attract wealth and success to the marriage. And who doesn’t like wealth and success, right?

(source)

I set out on my eBay hunt for a silver sixpence from 1945. My grandparents were married that year and enjoyed a lifelong, loving marriage that I have always admired. They’ve both passed on now, and I thought it would be a great way to honor them during my own wedding.

One thing to know if you decide to participate in this tradition: after the year 1947, sixpences ceased to contain silver. If you want to stay true to the “silver sixpence” custom, be sure to find one minted between 1551 and 1947. Also, you should probably be prepared for some skepticism on the part of your loving fiance:

Mr. Husky, upon checking the mail: “There’s a package here for you.”

Me: “Yay! Must be my silver sixpence!”

Mr. Husky, after listening to my explanation of the custom: “How much is it worth?”

Me: “Well I paid a dollar for it, plus shipping. So, less than two dollars.”

Mr. Husky: “No, I mean the original value.”

Me: “Oh—six pennies.”

Mr. Husky, totally deadpan: “Hmmmm. Good buy.”

What wedding customs are you following? Have you been met with any sideways glances for your decisions?