The familiar sing-song wedding refrain associated with the bride, Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue is thought to come from the Victorian era and is full of good luck wishes. The something old is the connection the bride will always have to her family and former life. Many brides would wear an heirloom piece of family jewelry or the wedding gown of their mother or grandmother. Something new is associated with the bride's new life; often her wedding dress is chosen as the new item. Something borrowed reminds the bride to keep in touch with friends and family. Something blue stands for faithfulness to her new husband. Brides often choose to wear a blue garter in keeping with this custom. A last phrase of the refrain often left out is And a silver sixpence in her shoe relating to the hopes from the bride’s family for her financial security.

Ring Bearer Pillow – Cut two 10-inch squares out of chosen fabric. White satin or any silky fabric is usually traditional. Pin right sides together and stitch all around using a 1/4-inch seam, leaving an opening for turning. Trim corners, turn, press, stuff with poly-fil stuffing, hand stitch opening closed. Tie snuggly with a wide satin ribbon making a large bow on top or add a lace doily, catch-stitching the doily to the pillow top. Hand stitch a length of narrow satin ribbon to the top of the pillow to tie wedding rings on securely.

Organza Favor Bag – Sheer stiff organza in white or wedding colors (craft or party-type for cost savings). Bag can be 8-inches long by 5-inches wide. Fold the fabric lengthwise or crosswise measuring 8-inches from the fold (becomes the bag bottom), then cut across 5-inches for each bag top then down 8-inches making several bags as you cut along the fabric. Make the cuts with sharp pinking shears or a pinking rotary cutter for a pretty effect. Sew each bag side using a scant 1/4-inch seam, turn so the seam is on the inside. Fill with foil chocolates or sugared almonds, tie on a wedding charm or token with a thin satin ribbon.

Bridal Hair Decoration - Use several rounds or squares of silk organza or chiffon, in various sizes, stacked on top of each other, Pinch in the center so the fabric gently folds in and hand stitch to secure. Attach an extra-long gold colored sturdy bobby/hair pin to the back with a few hand stitches. Stitch a small piece of lace and a silk rose to the center, adding a few white pearl-like beads for a quick hair decoration. Add a section of birdcage bridal veil that barely covers the face for a vintage look.

Bridal Garter – Simple to make when all that is needed is a stretchy lace ribbon and rhinestone or sequin and bead appliqué. Measure around the leg, add ½-inch and cut the lace. Hand sew the applique to the center, then hand or machine sew the ends of the lace together.

No-sew Floral and Tulle Chair Decoration from Joann.com

Bridal Clutch/Purse Make a simple clutch purse for brides, bridesmaids or any occasion from MarthaStewart.com

By making a few wedding accessories everyone will notice the tender personal touch that will make this day extra special.

Sew happy, sew inspired.