Gays getting married doesn’t equal to a progressive or untraditional wedding—it equals to two people who love each other making a commitment. So why should we be denied classic wedding traditions? After all, we’ve had to suffer through the garter toss at our straight friends’ nuptials—it’s now our turn and, gosh darn it, those singles will fight for the fabric!
One alternative that we’ve seen used in weddings is sleeve garters. Historically seen on jazz musicians, poker dealers, Prohibition-era speakeasy bartenders, and gunslingers (ooh, sexy!), it’s a masculine garter worn around the arm’s bicep, over the shirt. It can be hidden underneath the suit jacket, much like the female version’s is under the dress, until toss time. While grooms can easily wear bridal garters around their arms, sizing may be an issue, so we’ve found five garters made specifically for men’s biceps.
Now all you have to do is rally the singles, turn on Salt N’ Peppa’s “What a Man” tune, and flick.
Deluxe Sleeve Garters from Gentlemen’s Emporium ($15): These silk jacquard fabric garters come in a rainbow of colors, making it easy to match with your wedding colors.
Patriotic Armbands from Sears ($7): Pronounce your love for your new husband and your country with this pair of matching red, white and blue armbands.
Tuxedo Garter from Stumps ($4): This tuxedo armband is the ultimate groom garter.
Shamrock Groom’s Band from Eye-Catching Creations ($14): Have the luck of the Irish on your side with this silk shamrock armband.
