The James T. Callow Folklore Archive

NEAR THE END OF THE RECEPTION, THE SINGLE MEN GROUP
THEMSELVES IN FRONT OF THE BANDSTAND, ABOUT FIFTEEN
FEET AWAY FROM IT. THE GROOM STANDS ON THE STAGE,
WITH HIS BACK FACING THEM. HE THEN FLINGS THE BRIDE'S
GARTER OVER HIS SHOULDER. THE SINGLE MAN WHO CATCHES
IT IS SUPPOSED TO BE THE NEXT ONE TO BE MARRIED.
HE ALSO GETS TO SLIP THE GARTER ON THE GIRL WHO HAS
CAUGHT THE BRIDE'S BOUQUET. SHE USUALLY SITS ON A
CHAIR IN THE CENTER OF THE HALL WHILE HE KNEELS ON ONE
KNEE AND SLIDES IT UP JUST A LITTLE PAST HER KNEE.

Where learned: MICHIGAN ; DETROIT

Date learned: 04-00-1965