Photo: Getty Images
Today, January 31, kicks off the first new moon of the year and the beginning of the Chinese New Year. This year? It's out with the Year of the Water Snake, and in with the Year of the Horse. Whether you subscribe to the thinking of the ancient Chinese calendar or not, keep reading to learn what the year ahead holds—especially if you have a wedding on the calendar in the months ahead!
According to legend: To avoid bad luck, wear red this year, and often. (And, to take the superstition to an even deeper level, wearing something red that has been given to you by someone else is even better.)
What it means for your wedding: Red bridesmaid dresses, red roses, or maybe red lingerie for the wedding night? Other so-called lucky colors for the year of the horse: green and purple.
According to legend: Lucky flowers for the year of the horse are giant taro and jasmine.
What it means for your wedding: Good luck sourcing giant taro, but a sprig of jasmine in your bouquet would smell amazing!
According to legend: Some Chinese zodiac experts say that people tend to be more stubborn in the Year of the Horse, holding firm to their principles.
What it means for your wedding: Decision-making might be a little harder when no one is inclined to compromise! One the other hand, now you've got a great excuse for not budging when your mother-in-law suggests her favorite venue for the reception.
See more: Laugh It Off: 4 Wedding Mishaps That Aren't the End of the World
According to legend: If you were born in a Year of the Horse, you are said to be more compatible with partners who were born in the years of the tiger, goat or dog, and not so compatible with those born in the years of the rat, ox, rabbit, or other horses.
What it means for your wedding: Well, grin if you're compatible, and snicker if you're not. (And maybe wear some extra red!)