What is the history of the wedding garter tradition?

It's fair to say that in other places, in other times, weddings could be rather crazed affairs, and the garter toss served to make things a little less crazy. But how did this tradition come about?

The Garter Toss: Vintage Photographs of a Wedding Tradition - Flashbak

Bouquet and Garter Traditions (With Modern Alternatives)

What is the history of the wedding garter tradition?

Wedding Traditions Do You Wonder Why We Do These? - Silk Garters

Unveiling the Wedding Garter Tradition

Why the Garter Toss is Pretty Much the Worst Wedding Tradition

Where does the white wedding dress come from?

Cultural Traditions, HowStuffWorks

Garter Toss Games, Songs & Ideas • Weddings • Calgary, AB