In the Fourteenth Century, it was customary for the bride to toss her garter to the men in the bridal party. However, it was not unsual for the men to become impatient & attempt to take the garter ahead of time. This is believed to be one of the reasons behind today's tossing of the bouquet, since it was less trouble for the bride to throw her flowers. Originally known as "flinging the stocking," an ancient & bawdy ritual, particularly popular in Britain, during which guests would invade the bridal chamber. The ushers, seated at the foot of the bed, would seize the stockings of the bride, the bridesmaids & the groom, taking turns to "fling" the stockings over the heads of the couple.