Garter Traditions

Q: What is the tradition behind the wearing of the garter and what is the 'correct' position of the garter?

A: The tradition and symbolism behind the tossing of the garter has evolved and changed over time, as do most traditions. This is one of the oldest customs surviving wedding rituals, believe it or not. I've listed some historical significance as well as modern-day significance below:

1. Many say the bridal garter originates from at least two cultures. In ancient times (pre 1800's), it represented the virginal girdle, a symbol of purity and virginity. The groom's removal of the garter symbolized her relinquishment of that status and confirmation of consummation of the marriage. The garter can also be traced to the Old English custom of flinging the stocking. Wedding guests would sneak into the bridal chamber, pick up the newlywed's discarded stockings and throw them at the couple. Whoever flung a stocking that hung on the bride or groom's nose would be the next to marry.

2. That evolved into the similar, yet slightly modified ancient version. Removing the Garter from the bride comes from the ancient custom wherein witnesses gathered at the marriage bed to make sure the couple consummated the marriage. The witnesses would scramble for the garter and collect it as a sign of the witnessing. It became a symbol of "de-flowering" the bride and continued to be a way to prove that the virgin bride had consummated her marriage. However, it became such a violation of privacy that eventually the bride would have the groom throw it out the bedroom door to prove consummation, rather than having people gather by their bed-side.

3. Thankfully, those traditions evolved further and were less and less invasive of the couples' privacy. Modern-day garter removal and garter toss traditions primarily take place as forms of entertainment. They're border-line sexual and for the most part are done as good fun. The groom removes the brides garter (usually in a seductive manner) and tosses it to the single male guests of the wedding reception. It is said that the male who catches it will be the next to marry.

The "correct" position of the garter used to be above the thigh. However, since the garter removal is being done in front of so many people these days (including your parents!) the modern-day placing of the garter is just above the knee. That way it is easier for the groom to access, and less embarrassing for the bride.