* Carrying of a horseshoe by the bride is a custom dating back as far as 3-400 years. Carrying an actual horseshoe is a bit cumbersome and heavy. Many brides today choose to have the emblem of the horseshoe sewn inside her dress or embroidered onto the hand-fasting wrap. The symbolism of the "shoe" is what is important. It is meant to bring good luck to the couple.

* The "Grushie" custom is performed by the groom. He is to toss a handful of coins into the crowd at the wedding reception or line of recession as he and his new bride leave the church or have been pronounced as lawfully married. It is best to make sure the coins are small or ones that have been especially made for this purpose. Heavy coins could injure someone.

* The custom of a barefooted bride and groom symbolizes a grounding or connection to the earth. This very old custom was performed for those Celtic peoples that wanted to honor mother earth. I still think that this tradition was designed to honor but for comfort as well. Unless of course you?re getting married on a ground laden with sharp stones or rock.

The above mentioned Celtic traditions are by no means the only ones. They are however, whether you choose to use one or all, certain to give your ceremony the atmosphere of love and at the same time an honoring of our Celtic heritage.