Wedding garter alternatives

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Many brides and grooms are dumping the garter toss in favor of fun, new alternatives. Some couples forgo the toss out of modesty, some dislike singling out the single guys, while others protest a ritual that dates back to the 1500s when the groom gave away the garter on the wedding night as proof he had consummated the marriage. Whatever your reason, consider these alternatives when planning your special day.

1. A Different Toss

   • Throwing away the garter toss doesn't mean the groom has to throw away the entire tradition. The groom's toss can also symbolize giving up the single life for a life joined with his new bride in marriage. Consider tossing an item that represents the groom's single days. If the groom is a sports nut, try tossing a Nerf football or a Koosh ball. If the groom was a helpless bachelor who couldn't cook to save his life, torpedo a sub sandwich. There's nothing like watching a group of guys tussle over turkey on sourdough. Did video games occupy all of the groom's time before Mrs. Right came along? Toss a stuffed Mario or Luigi. Make the toss fun and meaningful. To get more guests to participate, invite both single and married guys to join in the fun.

   Trivia Contest

   • If you still want to give the garter away, but only have a small group of guys vying for the prize, challenge the guys to a trivia test. With all of the contestants in a line, quiz them on facts relating to the couple. The first person to answer correctly takes a step forward. Each correct answer is one step closer to the prize of your choice.

     Stump the guys with these questions: How long have the bride and groom been together? Where did the couple meet? Who made the first move?

     The trivia game can elicit some funny answers while keeping all of the guests entertained.

   Anniversary Dance

   • For couples looking for a more inclusive, romantic alternative, try the Anniversary Dance. All married couples, including the bride and groom, take the floor. The music starts and everyone boogies down until the DJ requests that couples married less than five hours leave the dance floor, then one year, five years, and so on until only one couple remains.

     Present the winning couple with the bouquet and garter, or any item of your choice. Honor the longest married couple by having their photo taken, and then give them a nice frame for the picture. Restaurant gift certificates are also a popular prize.

     Be sure to give the winning couple the microphone and ask them the secret to their longevity. Also, make sure to choose a song long enough for the dance. Arrange the details with your DJ ahead of time. Many wedding DJ's will already have a list of suggested Anniversary Dance songs.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: Anniversary Dance, away garter, bride groom, garter alternatives, garter toss, group guys