Wedding Garter Tradtion: Why do Brides wear a Wedding Garter?
So, why are wedding garters a thing?
The Wedding Garter tradition dates back to centuries ago, however the main reason Brides continue to choose to wear a wedding garter to symbolize good luck for both the couple and the wedding guests; it's the groom's equivalent of the Bouquet Toss.
Wedding Garter Tradition
The tradition of wedding garters dates back centuries where it would be good luck to take home a piece of the bride's clothing. This used to involved ripping apart the Bride's dress and taking strips of fabric home (God Forbid - not the Berta!)
As the wedding tradition developed, the garter ceremony became more about the couple consummating the marriage - the wedding party would wait outside the Bridal Suite and the garter would be thrown to the wedding guests to indicate that the deed had been done! (Yep... creepy)
Thankfully, this tradition evolved into a removal garter that could be thrown and distract the guests so the brides could keep their dress and their clothes intact.
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Wedding Garter Ceremony
Today however, the tradition is similar to the throwing of the bouquet. In today's garter removal ceremony, the groom will remove (most likely with his teeth!) and throw the garter to the unmarried male guests with the thought that the person to catch it will be next to marry. This can be made quite playful and fun during the reception especially after some champagne.
With the current tradition in mind, most modern-day brides have two garters on the day. One to wear and treasure as a keepsake and one to throw to the lucky men.
The garter is also used to fulfil other traditions like the something new, old, borrowed, and blue.
Do I have to wear a Wedding Garter?
Now, you might still be thinking... wait, my partner... has to remove my garter... with his teeth?? Don't worry, it's not uncommon to skip this part of the wedding day. Some couples like this cheeky, playful part of the ceremony but some also opt to leave this part out.
That being said, with or without the garter removal ceremony, the garter still remains a chosen part of the Wedding outfit. Some Brides will wear the piece under their dress for the entire day, (thankfully with our adjustable bands this is super comfortable!) some brides choose to slip into their garter for their Wedding night. and some brides will wear them in the lead up to the day at their Hen Party instead.
There's no right or wrong way to wear a Wedding Garter and most importantly, you feel comfortable, confident and a little sexy on your wedding day.
