Weddings are full of beautiful traditions, but few are as timeless (and fun!) as the rhyme: something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue. Whether you’ve always dreamed of honoring this tradition or you’re just discovering it as you plan, it’s a sweet way to weave a little history into your celebration.
“Something old,” in particular, gives you and your partner an opportunity to pay homage to your family and the generations that came before you. From cherished heirlooms to creative ways of showcasing keepsakes, there are so many thoughtful ways to make this tradition your own. Here’s what a handful of industry pros recommend when it comes to incorporating “something old” into your wedding day.
Gather your best photos
Old photos are a great way to showcase your family history and celebrate the love stories that shaped you. Displaying these images instantly adds warmth to your space and helps guests feel connected to your journey.
Kevin Dennis, Owner of Fantasy Sound Event Services, notes, “I love the idea of using the couple’s childhood photos throughout the wedding day – from cocktail hour (custom napkins or signage) to reception (an ongoing slideshow of black and white photos playing in the background during the first dance). If you don’t necessarily have access to family heirlooms, this can be an easy way to incorporate ‘Something Old’ into your big day!”
You can incorporate photos into welcome tables, memory walls, or even cocktail hour lounges. Not only do they spark conversations among guests, but they also give everyone a chance to pause and appreciate the legacy of love surrounding your celebration.
Use a gown from a family member
Using a wedding gown from a family member is a lovely way to honor generations of love on your big day. You might wear the dress as-is or highlight a special detail from the original design. Whatever you choose, each approach instantly creates a powerful emotional connection.
“We’ve also seen brides wear a repurposed gown from their mom or grandma, but another similar yet innovative idea is to use a swatch of a grandmother or great-grandmother’s wedding gown as the ribbon wrapping around the bride’s bouquet,” – Liney Castle, Wedding Planner at Twickenham House and Hall.
If wearing a full vintage gown doesn’t quite match your vision, think creatively about how smaller elements can still make a big impact. A subtle fabric detail or reimagined accessory allows you to honor the original piece while keeping your look fresh.
But don’t forget about the groom
“Something old” isn’t just for the bride. Grooms can join in on the tradition, too! Pieces from their loved ones often carry stories that make getting dressed even more fun.
Irene Katzias, Wedding Planner at Irene + Co Events, says, “I would love to see more sentimental pieces for the groom being incorporated—for example, a vintage watch or pocket square from grandpa. Having a very intentional wardrobe choice from the groom can be so charming and honor the family throughout the day. Being sentimental with ‘Something Old’ makes the day feel more meaningful for all involved.”
Even better, many of these items become keepsakes you’ll treasure long after the wedding is over. It’s a simple way for the groom to feel connected to his family’s traditions.
Focus on interactive elements
Interactive displays are a unique way to bring “something old” to life instead of keeping it tucked away or hidden. These little details invite curiosity and storytelling throughout your celebration.
“I’d love to see more ‘something old’ pieces worked into things guests can interact with,” confirms Craig Peterman, Photographer at Craig Peterman Photography. “For example: a cake table styled with old family cake toppers, or a welcome table with framed passport stamps, ticket stubs, or tiny objects from the couple’s parents and grandparents’ lives. They give guests something to look at and talk about instead of the heirloom staying hidden in a pocket or sewn deep inside a dress.”
Not only do interactive elements add visual interest to your decor, but they also create natural moments for guests to linger and reminisce. It turns your heirlooms into conversation pieces rather than background decor, helping your wedding feel personal without feeling overly formal or museum-like.
Photography by Julia Wade
Choose what’s most meaningful to you
“Something old” doesn’t have to look a certain way. It just needs to hold meaning for you as a couple. Remember: The value comes from the story behind it, not how big or bold the piece may be.
Andrea Smith, Owner of SoiréeSmith, emphasizes, “Ultimately, the most impactful selections are something with sentimental meaning: be it family heirloom jewelry or even an old scent/perfume.”
Don’t feel pressured to incorporate every idea or follow someone else’s version of tradition. Focus on the pieces that genuinely resonate with you and reflect what matters most in your relationship. When your choices feel intentional, they naturally create a wedding experience that feels heartfelt and uniquely yours!
Meghan Ely is the owner of wedding PR and marketing firm OFD Consulting and the founder of OFD Collective, a membership community for wedding pros looking to elevate their visibility. She’s a sought-after speaker and a self-professed royal wedding enthusiast.
