The non-traditional bride is dominating the wedding scene at Lesner Inn, which brings in new variations of the traditions we are accustomed to. Something that we see are many of our non-traditional brides steering away from is the garter removal. Most of today’s brides are finding it a little awkward to do this in front of everyone at their reception, which we can’t argue with. We hate to eliminate this tradition just because of a little discomfort, so if you want to still incorporate the garter removal into your big day here are a few ways to help make this tradition a little less awkward for you and your groom!
Icing the groom
Putting an unexpected twist on the garter tradition definitely helps take away the awkwardness of it. One great idea we’ve seen is to “Ice” the groom during this time. This helps put more of the focus on the “icing” part rather than the actual garter removal!
2. Do it later in the evening
One of the main reasons brides and grooms feel uncomfortable during the garter tradition is having all their family members watching. So another way to avoid some of the awkward vibes that come with this tradition would be to do it later in the night when most of your older family members have probably headed home already.
3. Reversing the rolls
Have you ever thought about having the bride and groom to switch roles? Have the groom toss the bouquet to all the single men and then have the bride remove the garter from the groom’s leg. This would take it from awkward to surprising and funny for all your guests!
Brandon Dugan Photography
4.Create a diversion
To take away some of the lime light, from the groom removing the garter, would be to have the bridal party do a choreographed dance during this time. Planning a funny dance is not only fun for the bridesmaids and groomsmen but it’s also a fun distraction from the garter removal for your guests!
Whether you’re a non-traditional or traditional bride, any of these alternatives to the standard garter removal can bring something new and unique to your wedding reception! But don’t stop thinking up ideas; we would love to hear your favorite garter removal stories!
We had such an amazing wedding at the Lesner this past weekend. With all of the hurdles we had to go through with COVID protocols, Alexis, Kim, and Lindsey went above and beyond to make our day feel normal- and it was PERFECT! They were so attentive to detail and helpful with things I had not thought of during the planning process. They took care of every detail and we had nothing to worry about on the day of Our wedding except showing up. I even had some last minute changes to decor that they were able to help with. The food was amazing and the view is seriously one you can’t beat. The sunset deck is Covered, so some rain is not a total game changer- but it also gives the guests a nice break from the reception hall (which is inside), which made our guests comfortable with spacing out during these times. Luckily our weather was perfect and the photos are literally amazing- there is no better view in Virginia Beach. I would highly recommend the Lesner for a wedding !!
Mr. & Mrs. Jurko
JUNE 22, 2018
LESNER HALL & SUNSET DECK
I could NOT be happier with the service from Lesner Inn. Our coordinator Liz was SO helpful each time we met with her and had questions. The ceremony and receptions spaces were absolutely beautiful. If I had to do it all over again I wouldn’t change a thing and I would recommend this venue to anyone!
The Bells
SEPTEMBER 24, 2016
LESNER HALL & SUNSET DECK
Alexis, We just wanted to say thank you for all that you did Saturday & all the planning leading up to our wedding day. We had such an amazing day! And we really appreciated you making sure we were taken care of throughout the night. You’re amazing at what you do & helped our wedding day turn out to be perfect! Thank you again!
Jon & Brittany Wilson
JULY 15, 2017
LESNER HALL & SUNSET DECK
Girls at the Lesner Inn, Wow! I can’t believe it’s been just about a year since Jon and I came through the doors and knew that this would be the place we say “I do”. You guys are awesome and made planning a breeze even for this bride who didn’t have it all together. Thank you guys so much for everything, our day was perfect!
Kyle & Elise Miller
APRIL 8, 2018
LESNER HALL & SUNSET DECK
Lindsey!
I am speechless! Friday was truly amazing. You went above and beyond to make our day so special! We loved every second of the night. Thank you also for the champagne glasses and kitchen towel. You are so sweet! Everyone raved about the night. You and Lesner Inn are AMAZING!
Love you
Kyle & Elise Miller