There are commonly two garters worn by the bride at weddings. The tradition of wearing two garters dates back centuries and has evolved over time. Let’s explore the reasons behind the presence of two garters and their significance in modern weddings.
1. Keepsake Garter: The first garter worn by the bride is often referred to as the keepsake garter. This garter is typically more intricate, elegant, and personalized to match the bride’s attire. It is worn higher up on the leg, just above the knee. The keepsake garter holds sentimental value and is meant to be cherished as a memento of the wedding day. Some brides choose to customize their keepsake garter with embroidery, lace, or even incorporate something old, borrowed, or blue for added symbolism.
2. Toss Garter: The second garter is known as the toss garter. This garter is usually simpler and less ornate compared to the keepsake garter. It is typically worn lower on the leg, closer to the thigh. The toss garter serves a more practical purpose during the reception. Towards the end of the wedding celebration, the groom traditionally removes the toss garter from the bride’s leg and tosses it to the unmarried male guests. Similar to the bouquet toss, the recipient of the garter is believed to be the next to get married.
The tradition of the garter toss has its roots in medieval Europe, where it was believed to bring good luck to possess a piece of the bride’s wedding attire. However, the practice has evolved over time, and nowadays it is often seen as a playful and lighthearted part of the wedding festivities. It adds an element of fun and anticipation for the single male guests, who eagerly vie for the chance to catch the garter.
While the toss garter is usually thrown away or kept as a souvenir by the recipient, the keepsake garter is meant to be treasured by the bride as a reminder of her special day. It can be passed down through generations or kept as a personal keepsake.
It’s worth noting that not all brides choose to have a garter toss at their wedding. It is a tradition that some couples opt to skip or modify to suit their preferences. However, for those who do incorporate the garter toss, having two garters allows for the distinction between the sentimental keepsake and the garter meant for tossing.
The presence of two garters at weddings serves both sentimental and practical purposes. The keepsake garter is worn as a symbol of love and is meant to be cherished as a memento, while the toss garter adds an element of fun and tradition to the festivities. Ultimately, the decision to include two garters is a personal choice for the couple and can be tailored to reflect their individual style and preferences.