Garter toss

Origins and history

The practice likely began in the Middle Ages when wedding guests would rush the couple to take pieces of their clothing as lucky souvenirs. Over time, this chaotic behavior was replaced by a more structured ritual. By the modern era, only the groom was permitted to remove the garter. The act evolved from a superstition about stealing clothing to a symbolic game of chance that predicts who will marry next.

How the ritual works

The bride wears a specific garter, often separate from her daily hosiery, specifically for this moment. During the reception, music usually plays to encourage participation. The groom approaches the bride and removes the garter, sometimes using his teeth or hands depending on preference. He then turns to the crowd of single men and tosses the item over his shoulder. Men compete to catch it, similar to how women catch the bridal bouquet.

Symbolism and meaning

Participants believe catching the garter brings good luck regarding future romance. Tradition holds that the man who catches it will be the next to marry among the group. While some historical interpretations link the removal to deflowering, modern couples view it primarily as a fun, lighthearted game. It serves as a counterpart to the bouquet toss, balancing the gender roles in the celebration.

How Garter toss is kept

The bride wears a dedicated garter during the ceremony and reception. Late in the evening, the groom removes it from her leg. He then throws the garter into a group of unmarried male guests. Those present jump or reach to catch the fabric band. The catcher is traditionally said to be the next man in the group to find a spouse. This happens after the bride has tossed her flowers to the women.

When and where

It occurs near the end of the wedding reception. It typically follows the cutting of the cake and the bouquet toss. The timing allows all unmarried guests to be present and energetic for the game.

This custom is common in Western countries. It is particularly noted in France and other regions influenced by European traditions. It takes place indoors or outdoors at the reception venue where guests are gathered.

What Garter toss means

The garter represents good luck and romantic fortune. Catching it suggests the holder will marry soon. The removal itself is a public display of intimacy between the couple. It transforms a private undergarment into a communal token of hope for single friends.

Who takes part

• The bride: Wears the special garter and waits for its removal
• The groom: Removes the garter and throws it to the guests
• Unmarried men: Gather to catch the thrown garter
• Guests: Cheer and watch the ritual unfold

If you are a guest

Single men should stand near the center of the dance floor or open space. They must be ready to jump or reach when the groom throws the garter. Women typically watch and cheer. Those who catch it may keep the garter as a souvenir of the wedding day.

Then and now

Some couples skip the ritual due to discomfort or privacy concerns. Others adapt it to be more inclusive or less physical. The practice remains popular but is increasingly optional rather than mandatory in modern weddings.

Questions people ask about Garter toss

See also

Globe de mariéeA glass bell jar used in France to hold the bride's bouquet and preserve family memories.Kyz kuuA horse race where a man chases a woman to win a kiss or faces her whip if he failsLa víbora de la marA wedding game where the couple stands on chairs while guests form a snake to test their unity.DabkeA Levantine line dance performed at weddings to celebrate union and community.

Good reading and sources

• The re-re-re-rise of the corsetBBC, Article
• The re-re-re-rise of the corsetBBC, Article

• Garter on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos and video
• Wikidata recordOpen data

It may contain mistakes. Wedding customs differ from one family, village and community to the next, and the people who keep them know them best. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-05.