At what point in the event do you present the garter to your date?

Holidays & Special Events

By Kristy Tolley

The Tradition of the Garter

The tradition of the garter dates back to the medieval era, when it was believed that owning a piece of the bride’s clothing would bring good luck. The garter was considered to be a symbol of the bride’s virginity and was traditionally removed by the groom and thrown to the single men in attendance at the wedding reception. Nowadays, the garter toss has become a fun wedding tradition, with the groom playfully removing the garter from his new spouse’s leg and tossing it to single male guests.

The Importance of Timing

Timing is crucial when it comes to presenting the garter to your date. You’ll want to make sure that the garter toss is planned at a time that won’t disrupt the flow of the reception or take away from other important events. Additionally, you’ll want to ensure that your date is aware of the tradition and comfortable with participating in the garter toss. Proper timing and communication will ensure that the garter toss is a fun and memorable part of your wedding day.

Pre-Event Planning

Before the wedding day, it’s important to discuss the garter toss with your DJ or band and make sure that they are aware of the order of events. You’ll also want to coordinate the placement of the garter with your wedding planner or coordinator to ensure that it’s easily accessible for the toss. If you plan on presenting the garter to your date, you’ll want to purchase a garter that matches the theme and color scheme of your wedding, and ensure that it fits comfortably on your leg.

The Order of Events

Typically, the garter toss takes place after the bouquet toss. This allows for the bride and groom to participate in both traditions and keeps the events flowing smoothly. You may also choose to have the garter toss occur after the cake cutting or during the dancing portion of the reception. Consider the flow of events and choose a time that works best for you and your spouse.

Music and Logistics

Your DJ or band will play an important role in the garter toss, as they will be responsible for announcing the event and providing music for the toss. Choose a fun and upbeat song that will get your guests excited and ready to participate. Additionally, make sure that the designated area for the garter toss is easily accessible and well-lit, so that guests can see the event clearly.

Signal Your DJ or Band

Before the garter toss, be sure to signal your DJ or band so that they know to announce the event. This will ensure that all of your guests are aware of what’s happening and can participate if they choose. If you plan on presenting the garter to your date, let your DJ or band know ahead of time so that they can prepare the music accordingly.

Final Preparations

Before the garter toss, make sure that your garter is easily accessible and that you’re comfortable with removing it in front of your guests. You may also want to practice the toss with a spare garter to ensure that you have a good aim. Additionally, make sure that your date is aware of the garter toss and is comfortable with participating.

During the Reception

During the reception, make sure to keep the garter toss lighthearted and fun. Encourage your guests to participate and cheer on the single men as they try to catch the garter. Remember, the garter toss is meant to be a fun tradition, so don’t take it too seriously.

The Garter Toss

During the garter toss, the groom will traditionally remove the garter from his bride’s leg and toss it to the single men in attendance. Some couples choose to make the toss more fun by blindfolding the groom or having him search for the garter with his teeth. Whatever you choose to do, make sure that you and your guests are comfortable with the level of participation.

Presenting the Garter to Your Date

After the garter toss, it’s time to present the garter to your date. This is typically done in a fun and playful way, and can be accompanied by a dance or a kiss. Make sure that your date is comfortable with the presentation and that it fits with the overall tone of your wedding.

The Grand Finale

Presenting the garter to your date is the grand finale of the garter toss tradition. It’s a fun and memorable moment that signifies the end of the tradition and the start of a new chapter in your lives together.

Conclusion: A Memorable Tradition

The garter toss is a fun and memorable wedding tradition that has been passed down through the generations. By taking the time to plan and coordinate the garter toss, you can ensure that it’s a fun and lighthearted event that your guests will remember for years to come. Whether you choose to present the garter to your date or toss it to your single male guests, the garter toss is a fun and playful way to celebrate your marriage and the love that you share with your partner.

Photo of author

Kristy Tolley

Kristy Tolley, an accomplished editor at TravelAsker, boasts a rich background in travel content creation. Before TravelAsker, she led editorial efforts at Red Ventures Puerto Rico, shaping content for Platea English. Kristy's extensive two-decade career spans writing and editing travel topics, from destinations to road trips. Her passion for travel and storytelling inspire readers to embark on their own journeys.

Leave a Comment