Weddings are steeped in tradition, symbolism, and, unsurprisingly, a fair share of myths. In the UK, generations of folklore, superstition, and old wives’ tales have shaped how we celebrate the big day but how many of these beliefs are actually rooted in truth? From cursed colours to lucky horseshoes, let’s unravel the mystery behind some of the most enduring UK wedding myths.

1. It’s Bad Luck for the Groom to See the Bride Before the Wedding

One of the most well-known UK wedding superstitions is that the groom mustn’t see the bride in her dress before the ceremony. This idea stems from the days of arranged marriages, where the couple didn’t meet until the ceremony and avoiding each other beforehand reduced the risk of one party backing out.

Reality:

Today, many couples choose a “first look” before the ceremony for an intimate moment away from the crowd. The only thing this breaks is tradition not your luck!

2. Rain on Your Wedding Day is Good Luck

This is a popular saying designed to comfort couples facing wet weather on their special day. The myth suggests that rain symbolises fertility, cleansing, and renewal.

Reality:

Whilst it might not feel lucky to have rain on your wedding day, it can actually turn into some of the most romantic shots. Creating some fantastic timeless pieces using reflections in puddles. There is actually a lot we can do with rain.

Couple with umbrella outside Royal victoria hotel in the rain

3. You Must Wear Something Old, New, Borrowed and Blue

This traditional rhyme has been followed by British brides for centuries. Each item symbolises good fortune:

Old represents continuity
New signifies hope for the future
Borrowed usually comes from a happily married friend or family member
Blue symbolises love and fidelity

Reality:

While charming, it is rarely seen in today’s weddings. Many modern couples adapt the idea or skip it altogether without any supposed consequence.

4. Saturday is the Unluckiest Day to Get Married

Believe it or not, folklore suggests Saturday is actually the most unlucky day for weddings. According to an old English rhyme, “Monday for health, Tuesday for wealth, Wednesday the best day of all, Thursday for losses, Friday for crosses, and Saturday no luck at all.”

Reality:

Despite the rhyme, Saturday is now one of the most popular wedding day in the UK due to convenience for guests. Clearly, this myth hasn’t held much sway!

5. You Shouldn’t Marry in May

“Marry in May, and you’ll rue the day” is an old English superstition rooted in pagan customs and the belief that May was an unlucky month for weddings.

Reality:

May is one of the most beautiful months in the UK for a wedding with blooming flowers and pleasant weather. The belief is mostly historical and no longer widely followed.

6. The Bride Shouldn’t Make Her Own Dress

According to old lore, a bride who sews her own dress is stitching her tears into the marriage implying sorrow to come.

Reality:

Many modern brides with a flair for sewing are ditching this myth and creating stunning, personalised dresses. If anything, it adds sentimental value and uniqueness to the big day.

7. Dropping the Wedding Ring is a Sign of Doomed Love

One particularly dramatic UK wedding myth claims that if the ring is dropped during the ceremony, disaster awaits the marriage. Some even say whoever drops it will die first!

Reality:

This one is pure superstition. Slippery fingers and nerves are common at weddings don’t let a fumbled ring overshadow your joy.

8. It’s Lucky to See a Chimney Sweep on Your Wedding Day

An old English belief states that seeing a chimney sweep brings good fortune. Some couples even hire one to appear at the ceremony for a symbolic photo.

Reality:

While chimney sweeps are rare in modern life, this tradition has become a whimsical add-on for nostalgic or superstitious couples. It’s harmless fun and who doesn’t want a bit of extra luck?

9. Horseshoes Bring Marital Luck

In UK tradition, brides often carry or wear a horseshoe (open end up) as a symbol of luck and fertility. This custom dates back to ancient times when iron was believed to ward off evil spirits.

Reality:

While not as common today, horseshoes still appear as decorations or keepsakes. Some brides opt for modern takes, like lace-covered or beaded versions.

10. The Best Man Must Guard the Bride

In medieval times, the best man’s role was more literal he stood guard to prevent the bride from being kidnapped or escaping, especially during arranged marriages.

Reality:

Today, the best man is mostly responsible for the rings, the speech, and keeping the groom in check. Luckily, bride snatching isn’t typically part of modern UK weddings!

Best man outside a wedding venue in Yorkshire

Final Thoughts on UK Wedding Myths

Weddings in the UK are rich with history, heritage, and a good dose of folklore. While many of these wedding myths are fascinating, most are rooted in outdated customs or superstitions. Today’s couples are redefining what traditions mean to them, choosing which to honour, reimagine, or ignore completely.

The truth is, no amount of blue ribbon, chimney sweeps, or perfectly dry skies can guarantee a successful marriage. The real “luck” comes from love, communication, and shared commitment.