The Guarder Tossing Ceremony
The guarder tossing ceremony is a tradition that has been practiced in weddings for many years. It is a fun activity that involves the groom tossing the bride’s guarder to a group of single men, who catch it and are said to be the next to get married. While it may seem like a lighthearted and harmless custom, it has sparked controversy in recent times, with some couples choosing to forego the tradition altogether.
Historical Origins of the Guarder Tossing Tradition
The guarder tossing tradition has its roots in the medieval times when it was customary for guests to rip off pieces of the bride’s dress as good luck tokens. As the practice became more civilized, it evolved into the guarder tossing ceremony, where the bride would remove her guarder and throw it to eligible bachelors. It was believed that the man who caught the guarder would be the next to marry. Over time, the tradition has become a popular part of weddings, with many couples continuing to include it in their ceremonies.
Guarder Tossing at Contemporary Weddings
Guarder tossing is still a popular tradition at weddings today, especially in Western countries. Many couples see it as a fun way to involve their guests in the celebration and help them to feel a part of the wedding. However, in recent times, there has been a growing trend of couples choosing to skip the tradition because they feel it is outdated and inappropriate.
Regional Differences in Guarder Tossing
While the guarder tossing tradition is commonly associated with Western weddings, it is not exclusive to this region. In fact, variations of the tradition are practiced in different parts of the world. In some countries, the bride and groom toss rice or coins instead of a guarder. In other regions, the groom may toss the bride’s bouquet instead of her guarder.
Religious and Cultural Influences on Guarder Tossing
In some religious and cultural traditions, the guarder tossing ceremony is seen as inappropriate. For example, in Muslim and Hindu cultures, it is considered taboo for unmarried men to touch or handle women’s undergarments. In Jewish weddings, the tradition is not practiced because it is thought to be too risqué for the occasion.
The Symbolism of the Guarder Tossing Ceremony
The guarder tossing ceremony symbolizes the end of the wedding reception and the start of the couple’s married life. It is also a way for the bride to celebrate her femininity and sensuality by sharing a part of her lingerie with the guests. The tradition is also a nod to the belief that single men who catch the guarder will be the next to marry.
Alternatives to the Guarder Tossing Tradition
For couples who are uncomfortable with the guarder tossing tradition, there are several alternative activities they can include in their wedding reception. For example, they can have a bouquet toss for the single ladies or a special dance for the newlyweds. They can also choose to skip the tradition altogether and focus on other aspects of the wedding.
Controversy Surrounding the Guarder Tossing Tradition
In recent times, the guarder tossing tradition has been criticized for being objectifying. Some couples believe that it reinforces outdated gender stereotypes and is inappropriate for modern weddings. Others argue that it is a harmless tradition and that couples should be free to include it in their ceremonies if they wish.
Including Non-Binary and Couples in the Tradition
The guarder tossing tradition can be exclusionary for non-binary and couples who may not feel comfortable participating in the activity. To make the tradition more inclusive, couples can modify the tradition by tossing a gender-neutral object or by inviting all guests to participate regardless of their gender.
How to Plan a Guarder Tossing Ceremony
For couples who want to include the guarder tossing tradition in their wedding, there are several things to consider. They should decide who will catch the guarder, whether it will be co-ed or only for single men. They should also choose the music and timing for the activity and decide how to incorporate it into the reception.
Making the Guarder Tossing Ceremony Meaningful in Your Wedding
For couples who choose to include the guarder tossing tradition, they can make it more meaningful by personalizing it to their relationship. For example, they can choose a special guarder or incorporate a theme into the activity. They can also use the tradition as a way to honor family members or loved ones who are unable to attend the wedding.
Conclusion: Guarder Tossing – A Commonly Practiced Wedding Tradition?
While the guarder tossing tradition is still a popular part of many weddings, it is not a universal practice. It is important for couples to consider their own values and beliefs when deciding whether or not to include the tradition in their wedding. Regardless of the decision, couples can find ways to make their wedding celebrations meaningful and inclusive for all their guests.
