One of the most cherished wedding customs is the old rhyme, “Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.” It’s a way to honor the past and celebrate the present with meaningful objects that preserve memories.
A wedding is a celebration of love, tradition, and the joining of families. Both vintage and custom-designed keepsakes can become more than just wedding details — they add depth and beauty to your special day.
Throughout history, items like gold trinkets or silver homeware items have been gifted to brides on their wedding day or to couples as a symbol of prosperity. These pieces — whether silver, brass, gold, or copper, have a timeless quality and can serve as either functional or decorative elements in your celebration.
Find out how families can incorporate something truly special into their big day below.
Something Old: The History of Metal Keepsakes In Weddings
Beginning with the origins of the wedding band — they were first gifted in the way we think of today in ancient Rome. The Romans were the first to craft wedding rings out of iron to symbolize the strength of marital bonds. In Nordic cultures, iron wedding bands were also historically believed to ward off negative energies.
During the Middle Ages, these bands became more elaborate and started to be crafted in silver and gold instead of iron. At this time, adding gemstones to these rings was also becoming common practice.
In other cultures, metal was also important but came in slightly different forms. Gold jewelry, like gold bracelets and necklaces, for example, is often gifted to the bride as a way to honor her and provide financial security. In India, weddings feature gold ornaments like headwear and toe rings as both adornments and ceremonial offerings.
Beyond rings, tea sets or serving trays were often given to newlyweds in the Victorian era, not only to be practical but to symbolize the beginning of the home a couple would build together.
An old European, Saxon-era tradition that is still occasionally practiced today is that of the Loving Cup. The tradition of a shared silver drinking vessel used in wedding feasts signifies the journey of love. Guests present who share the wine from the cup will share the happiness and burdens of marriage.
Other traditions from that era included engraving objects with intricate designs or family crests to add a personal touch to a couple’s union.
According to sites like The Knot and Taste Of Home, metal home and cookware items are still the most popular wedding gifts as of last year.
No matter the era, metal pieces have always aligned beautifully with the spirit of weddings. The enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the essence of the moment.
Something New: Custom Metal Gifts
A wedding is also about creating new memories and new traditions. Custom metal gifts, whether for the couple or their wedding party, can become cherished heirlooms to pass down to the next generation.
A monogrammed silver necklace for a bride or cufflinks for a groom can be worn for years to come. Creating a custom centerpiece elevates your reception decor and becomes a cherished piece for holidays and special gatherings in your home.
An engraved wedding cake knife, personalized with names and wedding dates, transforms a simple moment into a treasured memory — and can be used to celebrate anniversaries.
New and custom items symbolize optimism, fresh beginnings, and the unique path the bride and groom are about to embark on together. This doesn’t just include gifts for the couple — you can also create custom gifts for your guests to take home.
Copper Moscow mule cups or skeleton key bottle openers can be customized with names or dates. They are practical and make great party favors for both men and women. Small decorative boxes can be filled with treats for a sweet and eco-friendly option, as guests can refuse the tins later on.
These wedding favors not only show appreciation to people attending the wedding but also reflect the couple’s style and creativity.
Other ideas for adding metal items to decor are silver or bronze frames featuring pictures of the couple or loved ones who have passed on. Some couples even opt to do away with the normal guest book in favor of something non-traditional, such as a metal sign.
A thoughtful custom gift like this doesn’t just commemorate a wedding day — it becomes part of a larger story, treasured for the memories that item carries.
Something Borrowed: Treasured Pieces Shared Across Generations
The tradition of “Something borrowed” adds a heartfelt layer of connection to a wedding, and many brides and grooms choose to honor their families by incorporating items to wear or ones to use as decor for their big day.
The tradition comes from 19th-century England. By borrowing an item from someone in a successful marriage, a bride hopes that it will transfer a little good fortune to her own.
Often, brides borrow jewelry from their mothers, grandmothers, or close friends. A silver locket passed down through generations, a borrowed set of gold-rimmed champagne flutes, or an antique brooch affixed to the bouquets can carry love and history into the ceremony.
Vintage vases or candlesticks add to the decor and overall look of your wedding and show your love for family heirlooms.
Borrowing a treasured metal item also comes with responsibility, however. Heirlooms should look their best for the big day and be returned in pristine condition. Tarnish, scratches, and dents can dull their beauty and distract from the charm they bring.
Ensuring that borrowed heirlooms look their best is essential in showcasing their value and significance.
Make sure to use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down metal surfaces regularly to prevent dust buildup. For more thorough cleaning, dip a soft cloth into a solution of mild detergent and warm water. Store metal items in a dry environment away from direct sunlight to prevent corrosion.
If your heirlooms need a bit more care, we offer restoration services, ensuring borrowed pieces shine beautifully in wedding photos and remain in excellent condition for their next owner.
This tradition is more than using an object for a single day — it’s about celebrating connection and continuing a family legacy.
Something Blue: Adding Unique Blue-Hued Metal Accents
Blue is the color of clarity, purity, and peacefulness. While many brides may opt for a blue ribbon or handkerchief for their “Something blue,” using metals with blue patinas and oxidized finishes can add a vintage charm and artistic touch.
Oxidized silver jewelry often features darkened finishes that can be enhanced with controlled blue hues. This metal is beautiful in necklaces, wedding rings, and cuff links, but keep in mind the jewelry can tarnish over time in certain conditions such as moisture or sweat.
Using oxidized silver would also add a touch of elegance to wedding decor. Consider decor elements such as candlesticks or silver trays with hints of blue patina to add depth to your table settings.
Other metals, like oxidized copper or brass, could add a little flair to seating charts, planters, or signage in frames featuring shades of blue. These pieces double as decor and keepsakes. The aged look would complement any rustic, boho, or vintage theme.
By weaving these metals with blue hues into a wedding, you can achieve a balance of tradition and individuality. Whether in the form of decor or personal adornments, these accents bring a sense of artistry and uniqueness while keeping the “something blue” tradition alive in an elegant and unexpected way.
Let Biro & Sons Help Make Your Day Unforgettable
We understand the importance of weddings and the objects that define them. With unmatched expertise in metal restoration, we’re here to help you preserve meaningful items.
Whether it’s restoring a cherished heirloom or a newer, one-of-a-kind piece, our artistry ensures your wedding day details will stand the test of time.
Contact Biro & Sons today.