Perhaps there are very few cultures in the world that can rival Trinidadians and Tobagonians on the issue of superstitions! Legends and customs brought here from settlers from all around the world have contributed to a rich folklore indeed. As a result, local weddings of all religious types are still rife with superstitious beliefs. Here are some from Trinidad and Tobago and around the world:
Signs And Omens
In Trinidad, it is said that if you get your feet swept accidentally with a broom, you will not get married. Another common tale is that if a bride's second toe is longer than her big toe, she will rule her husband! Other unlucky omens include: A new wife tripping as she enters her home, seeing an open grave or a pig on your wedding day, or hearing a rooster crow after dawn. It is said that if lit candles go out on your wedding day, evil spirits are nearby.
Gown Colour
At the beginning of the 20th century, members of the Royal families wore silver wedding gowns, that was until Queen Victoria became the ultimate trend-setter by wearing white in 1840! To this day, the white tradition has remained in Western countries. However, Hindu brides wear red, since this colour is symbolic of new life, good luck and fertility, whilst white is associated with mourning and widowhood.
Weather
Rain on your wedding day has both good or bad luck connotations. If it rains on your wedding day, it is said that the rain is a symbol of children in the future. On the other hand, some say it is bad luck because rain drops represent the many tears a bride will cry throughout her married life.
Jumping The Broom
A tradition brought by West African slaves to America was the "jumping of the broom." It is done at the end of a wedding ceremony, as a way to protect the couple from evil spirits and is symbolic of sweeping away the past.
*culled from www.guidian.co.tt
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