Thursday 17 February 2011

The Tradition of the Wedding Garter


Today, we are pleased to introduce Jodie Ford as our guest blogger, who has written a piece on the traditions of the wedding garter.

"Something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue."- Opt for a wedding garter with a hint of blue to fulfil ‘something blue’, which symbolises purity, loyalty and faithfulness… or maybe, you could try ‘something different.’

Like a four-leafed clover, the tradition of tossing the bridal garter is seen as a symbol of good luck, dating back to the 14th century. The romantic history of the garter still lives on and is a fundamental custom to any wedding ceremony.
It then came to be that the bride would instead throw various items to the crowd - including the garter. The accessory is taken off and thrown into the sea of bachelors or groomsmen, as opposed to the bouquet in which eligible ladies have their eyes fixated on and anticipate that it will fall to their hands.

The removal of the garter originated from the view held by guests at weddings that owning a piece of the bride’s clothing, would bring them good luck. As you can imagine, this did not bode well with the bride, having guests lunge at her to ruin and rip at her wedding dress.
The wedding garter was also associated with the bride’s virginity. When the groom removed this item from her leg, it represented the idea that she would be forsaking her virginity.

Generally brides have two garters - one to carry out the tradition during the ceremony and one to keep as a cherished keepsake. Charms can be added such as a horse shoe, double rings or hearts which add a personal touch.
Wedding garters are still very popular and they are lovingly-made with silk, lace and bows. However, lots of different materials and colours are available to take your pick from – wedding garters don’t have to be blue! Choose one that means something, reflects your personality or simply integrates with your wedding theme.
Wedding Paraphernalia offers a wide variety of beautiful wedding garters (blue or not), ranging from traditional, vintage garters to contemporary, pure and delicate pieces.


2 comments:

samanda psychic said...

A very enticing piece of writing..Has reminded me to find my mums silver sixpence..You can't beat tradition.. I shall share this link

Unknown said...

I don't have a lot of information about it but I understand it for a wedding, since it is in a most personal location, it is allowing your spouse to remove that "protection" from you in that intimate area and share with the world that he is the only one to be able to do so.

In modern days, they are often blue - accounting for your something blue at the wedding that is not seen and should not detract from your attire.

I like the Blue ribbon Heart Wedding Garter for myself. :)
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