The Garter Story

The garter tradition is one that we love at BT and as members of the wedding profession. It is still being incorporated into most reception antics, but we forget that it has an origin story worth revisiting. Over time, a lovely tradition can morph into something entirely different. We want our brides to have knowledge, because we knowledge comes power.

The ritual of the garter started during the Dark Ages (900 - 1400 A.D.) and in its early years, it was a way to include the community in the wedding's (often overly-celebratory) post ceremony evening. That's the nice way of saying it. Basically, once a couple said their vows and the reception feast had concluded, wedding guests would escort (read: chase and often carry) the new husband and wife to their bed chambers. At this point, the bride would have some of her clothing torn from her as a sign of good luck and prosperity. It didn't take long for the tradition to turn from ripping at the bride's garments to the bride giving some garment away. And it turns out that that garment was the humble garter.

Wedding of King Arthur to Guinevere

Wedding during the Elizabethan age (16th century).

Of course, garters were used practically, if not fashionably, to hold up a woman's stockings - and a man's socks as well. Throwing the garter in later years was a way to keep the guests at the party and let the couple leave on their own. It symbolized a gift to the next community bride, becoming a wife, and hopefully later - a mother. 

MOdern Garters at Weddings

At BT, we've seen a decrease in the number of brides who want to wear a garter. Some buy one as a keepsake, but don't toss it. Other brides and grooms have turned the removal and tossing of the garter into something a little less, ahem, dignified. We hope that brides will consider not only buying a garter as part of her attire, but as a keepsake, if not a part of the reception celebrations. Come see us and let us show you our selection at Bridal Traditions.