Your wedding day is a celebration of love, commitment, and the start of a new chapter in life. Every detail, from the decor to the playlist, contributes to making this day memorable and unique. One tradition that adds a fun and playful element to the wedding reception is the garter toss. This event involves the groom removing the bride’s garter and tossing it to the unmarried men in the crowd. Choosing the perfect song for this moment is essential as it sets the tone and adds to the excitement of the event. This article will guide you through the history of the garter toss, the importance of selecting the right song, some top song suggestions, and tips for coordinating with your DJ or band.
Setting the Scene: What is the Garter Toss?
The garter toss is a wedding tradition that involves the groom removing the garter from the bride’s leg and tossing it to the unmarried male guests. It is often followed by the bouquet toss, where the bride throws her bouquet to the unmarried female guests. The person who catches the garter or the bouquet is said to be the next one to get married. The garter toss is a fun and lighthearted tradition that can add a playful and humorous touch to your wedding reception.
The garter toss usually takes place during the wedding reception after the cake cutting and bouquet toss. The bride sits on a chair, and the groom removes the garter from her leg, often with his teeth, while a fun and upbeat song plays in the background. The groom then tosses the garter to the crowd of unmarried men, and the one who catches it is said to have good luck and be the next one to get married.
The Tradition of the Garter Toss: A Brief History
The tradition of the garter toss dates back to the 14th century in Europe. Back then, it was believed that having a piece of the bride’s clothing would bring good luck. As a result, guests would sometimes get a bit too eager and try to rip pieces of the bride’s dress. To avoid this, brides started wearing a separate garter that could be easily removed and tossed to the guests. Over time, this tradition evolved into the garter toss that we know today.
In the past, the garter toss was more common and was often seen as a symbol of the bride’s purity and virginity. However, in recent years, some couples have chosen to skip the garter toss or put a modern twist on it as it may not align with their values or may feel outdated. However, many couples still choose to include the garter toss as a fun and playful tradition that can add a lighthearted touch to the wedding reception.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Garter Toss Song
Choosing the right song for the garter toss is essential as it sets the tone for the event. The song you choose should be fun, upbeat, and lighthearted, as it will set the mood and get everyone excited about the garter toss. It’s also a good idea to choose a song with a strong beat that will get everyone clapping along and cheering on the groom as he removes the garter.
Remember that the garter toss is a playful and lighthearted tradition, so you’ll want to choose a song that reflects this. It’s also important to consider your audience and choose a song that is appropriate for all your guests. Some popular genres for garter toss songs include classic rock, pop, and R&B.
Top 10 Most Requested Garter Toss Songs
- “Let’s Get It On” by Marvin Gaye
- “Sexy and I Know It” by LMFAO
- “Another One Bites the Dust” by Queen
- “Hot in Herre” by Nelly
- “Legs” by ZZ Top
- “Pour Some Sugar On Me” by Def Leppard
- “Danger Zone” by Kenny Loggins
- “Foxey Lady” by Jimi Hendrix
- “Cherry Pie” by Warrant
- “I’m Too Sexy” by Right Said Fred
These songs are all popular choices for the garter toss, but remember that the most important thing is to choose a song that feels right for you and your partner. Your wedding day is a reflection of your unique love story, so don’t be afraid to choose a song that is special to you, even if it’s not on this list.
How to Personalize Your Garter Toss Song Selection
Selecting a garter toss song that reflects your personalities and shared journey is crucial for your wedding celebration. Consider genres and artists you both enjoy, and think about songs with special meaning, such as a tune from your first date or a memorable concert. While popular garter toss songs are usually upbeat and playful, don’t feel obligated to choose a common song; it’s your day, and the song should be a good fit for both of you.
Also, consider the lyrics and the atmosphere they create when personalizing your song. They could be romantic, humorous, or cheeky, based on your personalities and the vibe you want. For instance, if you’re both humorous, you might opt for a song with witty lyrics. Conversely, if you share a passion for a specific music style, choose a song from that genre that will resonate with you and your guests.
Ultimately, the garter toss should be a fun, lighthearted moment during your reception, so don’t hesitate to choose a non-traditional song. Whether it’s a classic rock song, a catchy pop tune, or even a song from a movie or musical that you both adore, the goal is to select a song that mirrors your relationship and makes the moment memorable and enjoyable for both of you.
Tips for Coordinating the Garter Toss with Your DJ or Band
- Discuss the Event in Advance: Make sure to discuss the garter toss with your DJ or band in advance so they know exactly what to expect. Let them know when you plan to do the garter toss, what song you’ve chosen, and any other special instructions you may have.
- Choose a Song That Fits Your DJ or Band’s Style: If you’ve hired a band for your wedding, make sure to choose a garter toss song that fits their style and musical abilities. If you’ve chosen a song that is not in their repertoire, make sure to give them plenty of time to learn it before your big day.
- Consider the Acoustics of Your Venue: The acoustics of your venue can affect how the music sounds during the garter toss. Discuss your venue’s acoustics with your DJ or band to make sure they have the right equipment to make the music sound its best.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Garter Toss Song
One common mistake couples make when selecting a garter toss song is not considering the lyrics carefully. While the beat and melody of a song might be upbeat and energetic, the lyrics could have a different meaning or might be inappropriate for some guests. Remember, your wedding will be attended by people of all ages, including children and older family members. It’s crucial to choose a song with lyrics that are suitable for everyone. Another common mistake is not consulting with your partner before making a final decision. It’s a day for both of you, and both should feel comfortable and excited about the song choice.
Another mistake is selecting a song that is too slow or doesn’t match the energy of the event. The garter toss is a playful and lively tradition, so the song you choose should reflect that energy. It’s best to choose a song that is upbeat and will get your guests excited and involved in the moment. Additionally, forgetting to coordinate with your DJ or band is also a common oversight. Ensure that they are aware of your song choice well in advance and confirm that they can play it at the right moment.
Putting it All Together: Final Thoughts on Choosing the Perfect Garter Toss Song
Choosing the perfect garter toss song is all about finding a balance between tradition, personal taste, and the mood you want to create. It’s an opportunity to showcase your personality as a couple and share a lighthearted, fun moment with your guests. Remember to consider the lyrics, the tempo, and the overall vibe of the song. Consult with your partner and make sure you both feel comfortable and excited about your choice. And don’t forget to coordinate with your DJ or band to ensure everything goes smoothly on the day.
Additionally, consider the overall flow of your wedding reception when selecting your garter toss song. It should fit seamlessly into your wedding playlist and not feel out of place or disrupt the mood. Think about the events leading up to and following the garter toss, and choose a song that will transition well. Ultimately, the most important thing is that you feel happy and confident with your choice, and that it adds to the joy and celebration of your special day.
In conclusion, selecting the perfect garter toss song is an important detail that can add a fun and playful touch to your wedding reception. It’s an opportunity to express your personality and share a memorable moment with your loved ones. By considering the lyrics, tempo, and overall vibe of the song, and by coordinating with your DJ or band, you can ensure a successful and enjoyable garter toss experience for everyone. Remember, your wedding day is a celebration of your love and commitment to each other, and the garter toss is just one small part of this special day. So relax, have fun, and make it a moment to remember.