Good and Bad Omens
Superstition has it that should they pass by certain things on there wedding day they will have good or bad luck accordingly.
Good luck omens include – a black cat – lamb – toad – spider – rainbows – horseshoes – tokens given to the bride and groom after the ceremony - a chimney sweep.
The sweep is said to have earned his lucky reputation during the 18th century, when a chimney sweep saved the life of an English King; the sweep is thought to have caught the reins of a frightened horse running away with the King on his back. The chimney sweep then disappeared into the crowd before the
King had the opportunity to thank him, and knowing it would be impossible to recognise him again he gave instruction that all sweeps were thereafter to be treated with honour and respect.
Nowadays many Brides and Grooms are pleasantly surprised by a greeting from a Chimney Sweep as they come out of the church – booked by the groom, bride or relatives as a gift – to bring luck to the couple on their special day.
Omens of bad luck include – seeing a pig or lizard – seeing monks and nuns – funeral or open grave – hearing a cockcrow after dawn.
Walking was always thought to be the best way of getting to church, as there was more chance of spotting lucky omens.
It is the Best Man’s job to keep the groom away from all of these bad omens on his way to church.
Coming home from church can equally cause bad-luck – tradition has it that the new wife must enter her new home by the main door and to avoid bad luck she must not trip or fall – hence the bride being carried over the threshold. The tradition of carrying the bride over the threshold is also thought to date back to the times when men stole off with there reluctant brides. It is also said to prevent the bride stepping in her home left foot first, which is meant to bring bad luck to the couple.
Rain on your wedding day is also considered to be a sign of bad luck in some cultures
Happy is the bride the sun shines on
And yet in others it is seen as good luck.
Snow can indicate fertility and prosperity.
Cloudy skies or wind could say to mean problems between the newly married couple – a stormy marriage. | 
