The history of bridal garters

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The tradition of the bridal garter is one of the oldest for European and U.S. weddings, but its part in the ceremony has evolved over the centuries. Most weddings today still carry on the bridal garter tradition.

1. Origin

   • The bridal garter tradition originated in England during the 14th century. It was believed that having a piece of the bride's wedding dress would bring good luck to whomever obtained the piece of the dress. The bridal gowns were torn at by guests at the wedding. To keep the bridal gown intact, brides begin wearing separate garters to give to the wedding guests.

   Symbolism of the Garter

   • In 14th century England, the bridal garter was thought to influence fertility. It also symbolized vow fulfillment, marriage consummation and future children for the couple. Because of this symbolism, the garter become fiercely sought after at weddings. It was an honor to detach the garter from the bride, and it was believed that the luck of the wedding couple would pass to the guest who obtained the garter. The male who obtained the garter would wear it proudly on his hat from then on, until he gave it to the woman he intended to marry.

   Early Bridal Garter Traditions

   • The garter might be one of the oldest wedding traditions we know of, but it has changed much throughout the centuries. The original tradition involved the guest grabbing the garter off the bride's leg. That tradition evolved- the next version of the tradition involved a male guest taking the garter off the bride's leg shortly after the ceremony. Soon after, brides begin wearing garters that were easier to detach and throw to male guests.

   19th Century Bridal Garter Traditions

   • In 19th century England, Europe and the United States, local youths used to race from the church to the bride's home after the wedding ceremony. The first one to arrive had the honor of removing the garter. Once he had the garter, the young man attached it to the knee of his love interest as a guard against unfaithfulness. In northern England, the custom was for the young man to wear the garter inside his hat.

   Tossing of the Garter

   • The custom of the tossing of the garter was introduced in a tame manner in the early 20th century. In this version of the tradition, the groom removed the bride's garter from her leg and tossed it to the male guests. Whoever caught the garter would receive good luck and would be the next to marry. This tradition is still found at many modern weddings in the United States and Europe today. Many brides also have a second garter as a keepsake.

Source: www.ehow.com

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