Live Life Team
Garters have a way of making ladies feel sexy. Though usually not worn in everyday life, on a bride’s wedding day garters are usually the last piece of a bride’s undergarments she puts on, and the first to be taken off by her new husband. The garter toss is a tradition that dates back centuries and though in the modern world it is part of the fun at the bridal reception, it once had a more significant meaning.
In times past, it was considered necessary to have proof of the consummation of a marriage, so much so that the occasion required witnesses. It was common for family and friends to observe the couple and then take the garter as proof of the union. Sometimes things would get a bit out of hand and not only was the garter snatched by the onlookers, but parts of the couple’s clothing would be ripped and torn in the hope that having a souvenir of the occasion would bring good luck. As one can imagine, this attention was not welcome, so the groom started tossing the garter out so that no one would have to grab it.
Fast forward to modern times, when having witnesses attend the wedding night would be unthinkable in most cultures. But the symbolic tossing of the garter has managed to survive, with the tradition somewhat fortunately relocated from the bedroom to the reception hall. The lucky man who catches this bit of satin and lace is said to be the next to marry and to be blessed with good fortune.
