We’re starting a new series on our blog: What’s Up With That?!
In this series, we’re going to explore some wedding traditions and events that make you go “well, what’s up with that?!”
Our first entry is going to be about the famous garter toss.
Supposedly, the removal of the garter began around the 14th century and it was very popular in France. Back then, it was considered good luck to get a piece of the bride’s dress. Some guests would go as far as ripping a piece of fabric from the dress. You could say that the bride was treated a little bit differently than she is now.
After years of having their beautiful wedding gowns ripped apart, brides found an alternative: throwing personal articles of clothing, like the garter! The bride would throw her garter to keep the drunken men away. Unfortunately, some of the men tried to remove the garter beforehand during the reception, so the groom stepped up to save his bride and he tossed the garter.
There is also another version of how the garter toss came about. During the medieval period, wedding guests would accompany the newly married couple back to their bedchamber. They would pick up discarded stockings and try to hit the bride and groom in the nose with the socks. The person who hit them in the nose first would be the next to marry. Needless to say, this “stocking throwing” tradition was discontinued. We sure are glad!!
So now you know, what is up with that garter toss.
Stacy
Thanks Ali for your support!!!