The bridal pins They are a deeply rooted tradition in weddings, especially in Hispanic cultures. This small detail given by the bride to the single guests symbolizes good wishes and the hope that they find the true loveIts history is full of mystery, romance and customs that have been passed down from generation to generation. But where does this beautiful tradition really come from? In this article, we will explore its possible origins, the legends that surround it and how it has evolved to become an essential gesture in many modern weddings.
The uncertain origin of bridal pins
Although the true origin of this tradition is not fully confirmed, there are several legends that try to explain how it arose:
The story of Mrs. Soledad de Vargas and Mr. Garcia de Ocaña
One of the most popular stories has its origins in Toledo, Spain. It tells of a young woman named Soledad de Vargas, who was deeply in love with Ensign Don García de Ocaña. Before he left for war, they both promised to marry each other upon his return. During his absence, Soledad I prayed every night to the Virgin of Sorrows, accompanied by her servant Mencía. In order not to fall asleep during the rosary, she asked to be pricked with a pin if she fell asleep. When she finished, she offered the pin to the Virgin as a symbol of devotion. Finally, Don García returned safe and sound, and they fulfilled their promise to marry.
The connection with inherited dresses
Another possible origin of this tradition is related to the custom of yesteryear to inherit wedding dresses. Women would tailor these dresses to their own size with pins, and then, during the wedding, they would share them with unmarried guests. According to popular belief, keeping a pin would attract bad luck, so the delivery of these became a gesture of good wishes for other women in search of love.
The legend of the Virgin of Alfileritos
In Toledo there is also the legend of the Virgin of Alfileritos. It is said that single women left pins in the niche of this Virgin while asking her for help to find a husbandThis deeply romantic tradition continues to this day, especially among couples who wish to marry in this historic city.
The tradition of giving pins at weddings
Giving pins to guests has a special symbolism depending on their marital status:
- For singles: The pin is placed with its head facing down and without a cap. It is expected that it will be lost during the celebration, which is interpreted as an omen that They will find a partner soon.
- For married women: In this case, the pin is delivered with the head facing up and with the cap in place. This symbolizes stability and fidelity in their current romantic relationship.
Nowadays, many brides choose to present pins in creative ways, such as decorated bouquets or cushions specially designed for the occasion. Additionally, some brides choose to personalize the pins, making each one unique and memorable.
Superstitions and beliefs about pins
Like many wedding traditions, bridal pins come with curious superstitions:
- It is believed that leaving a pin in the wedding dress or not giving it to the guests brings bad luck for the newly married couple.
- In some cultures, it is said that touching warts with a pin and then throwing it away can help them go away. magically disappear.
- To forget a frustrated love, another superstition dictates placing pins in your shoes and stepping on them while walking.
The evolution of bridal pins
Over the years, this tradition has evolved from a practical and superstitious gesture to an expression of creativity and love in modern weddings. Pins are no longer simple pieces of metal; they can now be found decorated with pearls, crystals and even small personalized ornaments. These details transform a simple pin into a special keepsake that guests can treasure as a symbol of the special day they spent with the bride.
Bridal pins represent much more than a tradition. They are a link between history, superstition and the desire to share happiness. Each pin given carries with it a message full of emotions, whether to attract love or to preserve the one that already exists. Today, it remains a tangible sign of affection and esperanza that the bride wishes to convey to her dear friends and family on her special day.