How to Toss a Garter Correctly

The garter toss; a tradition dating back to the 1300's where the bride's garter is removed by the groom and flung into a crowd of eligible bachelors. Its European origin began with guests tearing off pieces of the bride's dress to get at the good luck it offered. The bride fought back throwing out different objects-including the garter-to ward off the attack, giving it the name we know today.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Time it right. The garter toss takes place as the reception is winding down. Wait until just before you cut the cake or even save it for the last hurrah before you run through the stream of bubbles to your escape car.

2. Seat the bride in a chair.

3. Assemble all romantically eligible males. This may take some prodding.

4. Kneel before the bride and like a gentleman, raise the hem of your bride's skirt just high enough to access the garter. It will be on her right leg.

5. Remove the garter carefully and stand back up.

6. Check your distance from the single men in order to gauge your throw.

7. Face away from the men and fling the garter behind you.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask your bride if you need help finding the garter.
• Don't sweat it. The garter toss should be fun and a little silly, so don't take it too seriously.
• Don't be lascivious. Your bride is a lady and deserves to be treated as such.