Garter Removal Tradition: What It Means and Why It Still Matters

When you think of wedding traditions, the garter removal tradition, a ceremonial act where the groom removes the bride’s garter during the reception. Also known as garter toss, it’s one of those customs that feels old-fashioned but refuses to disappear. It’s not just about pulling off a piece of lace—it’s tied to history, symbolism, and modern fun. Back in medieval times, guests would rush the bride to grab pieces of her dress for luck. To stop the chaos, brides started tossing their garters instead. Over time, it became a playful ritual, usually led by the groom, often right after the bouquet toss.

The bridal garter, a decorative band worn under the wedding dress, often matching the dress or veil. Also known as wedding garter, it isn’t just an accessory—it’s a symbol of good fortune and transition. In many cultures, the person who catches the garter is believed to be the next to marry. That’s why it’s not just about the groom pulling it off—it’s about who catches it. Some couples make it lighthearted, with the groom tossing it to single guys like the bouquet toss. Others skip the toss entirely and just keep it as a keepsake. It’s up to you. And no, you don’t need to wear a lace garter if it doesn’t feel right. Modern brides choose satin, silk, or even no garter at all.

The groom garter, a matching or complementary band worn by the groom, sometimes used in dual-garter ceremonies. Also known as groom’s garter, it is becoming more common too. Some couples use two garters—one for the toss, one to keep—so the bride doesn’t have to go without after the ceremony. Others swap garters during the reception as a sweet, private moment before the big reveal. It’s a small gesture, but it adds meaning without the pressure.

Here’s the truth: no one really cares if you do it or skip it. What matters is that it feels right for you. If the idea makes you uncomfortable, skip it. If you love the idea of a playful, lighthearted moment, go for it. There’s no rulebook. You’ll find real stories in the posts below—from couples who turned it into a hilarious dance-off to those who quietly removed it and tucked it into their wedding album. Some even paired it with a heartfelt note or song. It’s not about tradition—it’s about what sticks.

You’ll see how others handled it: who did the removing, whether they tossed it, how they made it personal, and what went wrong (and right). Whether you’re planning a big celebration or a quiet elopement, there’s a version of this tradition that fits. No pressure. No awkwardness. Just choices that feel like yours.