There’s nothing quite like a Southern wedding — steeped in tradition, overflowing with charm, and filled with heartfelt hospitality. At The Grand Magnolia House in Marshallville, Georgia, we see brides blend timeless customs with their own unique style every season. If you’re planning your big day below the Mason-Dixon line, here are a few beloved Southern wedding traditions — and creative ways to make each one your own.
1. The Bridal Handkerchief
The Tradition: A delicate handkerchief tucked into the bride’s bouquet or dress pocket symbolizes purity and becomes a keepsake to pass down for generations.
Make It Your Own: Have your initials and wedding date embroidered on it — or use lace from your mother’s or grandmother’s wedding dress for a sentimental touch.
2. Burying the Bourbon
The Tradition: In true Southern superstition, couples bury a full bottle of bourbon upside down at their ceremony site exactly one month before the wedding to ensure good weather.
Make It Your Own: Turn it into a fun pre-wedding gathering with family and friends, then dig it up and share a toast during your rehearsal dinner or reception at The Grand Magnolia House.
3. Something Old, New, Borrowed, and Blue
The Tradition: This classic rhyme has guided brides for generations, symbolizing continuity, optimism, and love.
Make It Your Own: Get creative! “Something old” could be a vintage piece of jewelry; “something borrowed” might be your mother’s veil; and “something blue” could be a delicate ribbon woven into your bouquet or garter.
4. Bridal Portraits
The Tradition: Southern brides have long posed for formal portraits before the wedding, often displaying them at the reception.
Make It Your Own: Schedule your session in one of The Grand Magnolia House’s signature spots — beneath the oaks, in the bamboo forest, or on the wraparound veranda. The setting makes a stunning backdrop for timeless bridal portraits.
5. Groom’s Cake
The Tradition: This charming Southern custom celebrates the groom’s personality — often featuring his favorite hobbies, sports teams, or alma mater.
Make It Your Own: Surprise your groom with a custom design by Tammy Stewart, our in-house baker, to serve alongside your wedding cake for a fun and personal touch.
6. Family Heirlooms
The Tradition: Incorporating family treasures — from a grandmother’s pearls to your father’s handkerchief — symbolizes the strength and continuity of family.
Make It Your Own: Display cherished photos or heirlooms on a “Generations of Love” table at your reception. It’s a beautiful reminder that love and legacy walk beside you down the aisle.
7. Southern Hospitality
The Tradition: A Southern wedding isn’t just about two people — it’s about community, connection, and treating every guest like family.
Make It Your Own: At The Grand Magnolia House, we make sure your guests feel right at home — from the warm welcome at check-in to the last slice of cake. Add personal touches like custom welcome bags, hand-written thank-you notes, or a late-night biscuit bar for the ultimate Southern send-off.
Final Thoughts
Every Southern bride carries a bit of history in her heart. Whether you follow these traditions to the letter or give them a modern twist, your wedding should reflect your story, your roots, and your love.
At The Grand Magnolia House, we celebrate the beauty of tradition while helping each couple create something completely their own — full of Southern grace, charm, and joy.
Ready to Plan Your Southern Wedding?
Schedule a private tour or learn more about our all-inclusive wedding packages at www.GrandMagnoliaHouse.com. Let us help you bring your wedding dreams — and your favorite Southern traditions — to life.
