Customs such as the bride wearing a veil or the groom carrying the bride over the threshold are traditions that many still partake in, but why? What purpose do these traditions actually have? Read on to discover the origins of such superstitions, as well as the logic behind them.

Wearing of the veil:

Some view the veil as an outdated fashion statement, whereas others view them as the must-have bridal accessory. Aside from its importance in fashion, the custom of wearing a veil roots back to the ancient Greek and Roman times. Essentially, brides believed that the veil would protect them from spiteful spirits that were envious of her happiness.

Bad luck to see the bride:

Back when arranged marriages were commonplace, the arrangement actually signified a business deal between the two families. In order to secure the deal, so to speak, the groom and bride were not permitted to see each other before the ceremony. This was to ensure that neither party had the opportunity to change their mind at the last minute and end the ‘deal’. Charming.

Rain on your wedding day:

It’s easy to assume that rain on your magical day will dampen more than your spirits, but it isn’t all doom and gloom. In fact, according to Hindu tradition, rain on your wedding day is actually a good omen. Why? For one, it is symbolic of fertility – it helps things grow and it washes away the past, representing a fresh, new start.

Carrying the bride over the threshold:

Flickr - JLStricklin

The custom of carrying the bride over the threshold is found in many cultures, but the rationale behind the practice in each culture varies. In Medieval Europe, if women showed an eagerness to ‘pop her cherry’, it was seen as utterly outrageous. In order to avoid scorn from fellow men and women, the groom would carry his bride over the threshold – providing her with the perfect alibi. Elsewhere, the principal logic was to thwart evil spirits and bad fortune.

Eight legged friends:

Spiders. They make your skin crawl. Make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up. They give you that queasy, uneasy feeling that trickles all over your body. While the mere sight of one may give you a slight heart attack, the English believe if one is found on your wedding dress it is a sign of good fortune. So before your impulses tell you to squish it, stop yourself as you may undo the good luck bestowed upon you.