George Boyle
Throwing objects at weddings is a long-standing tradition, with rice being one of the most popular choices. However, due to the myth that uncooked rice can harm birds, many couples are now opting for alternative options. From flower petals and birdseed to bubbles and sparklers, there are numerous creative and eco-friendly choices to celebrate the newlyweds. This paragraph will explore the various items that can be thrown at weddings and offer suggestions for a unique and memorable send-off.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Traditional | Rice, paper planes, rose petals, wheat, sugared nuts, birdseed |
| Eco-friendly | Biodegradable confetti, popcorn, dried flowers, leaves, paper lanterns, eco-confetti |
| Creative | Lightsabers, foam glow sticks, tambourines, pom poms, bubbles, sparklers, glitter, balloons, streamers |
| Unique | Paper airplanes, bicycle bells, flags, popcorn, sprinkles, feathers |
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What You'll Learn
Flowers, petals, and herbs
Flowers
Whole flowers can be used as an eco-friendly alternative to other toss options. Dried flowers can be handed out to guests before the ceremony, especially if it is outdoors, as they do not require clean-up. Fresh flowers can also be used, but they may be more difficult to throw and may not be as environmentally friendly.
Petals
Flower petals are one of the most popular send-off ideas for wedding ceremonies. They can be tossed by guests as the newlyweds walk back up the aisle or exit the building. To make it more organised, petals can be placed in paper bags, cones, or pouches with tags instructing guests to throw them at the appropriate time. White rose petals are a popular choice, but you can also choose petals that coordinate with your wedding colours or opt for seasonal varieties.
Herbs
Sweet-smelling dried herbs like rosemary, lavender, or sage can be tossed at the newlyweds, creating a fragrant and sustainable send-off. Guests can mix their own scents by providing bowls of multiple dried herbs with paper cones for tossing. Lavender was used at a South Carolina wedding, where guests tossed it at the couple as they recessed up the aisle.
In addition to the above, you can also consider combining flowers, petals, and herbs with other toss ideas. For example, you can pair them with biodegradable confetti, bubbles, or paper airplanes for a unique and festive send-off. Just be sure to check with your venue to ensure that tossing flowers, petals, or herbs is allowed.
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Rice and birdseed
Throwing rice at weddings is a tradition that has been around since ancient Roman times. It is a festive way of ending a wedding and symbolises showering the newlyweds with abundance and fertility. However, some people are concerned that throwing rice is harmful to birds, and as a result, the tradition has become less popular.
The myth is that eating uncooked rice will cause a bird's stomach to explode. This is not true, and rice, cooked or uncooked, is not harmful to birds. However, if you are concerned about the birds, birdseed is a trendy alternative. The local birds will enjoy it, and it is a festive and environmentally responsible option. You can put the birdseed in cups or cones, or wrap spoonfuls of birdseed in cheesecloth tied with a ribbon to distribute to your guests.
Rice is also being replaced with other options like flower petals, paper airplanes, biodegradable confetti, and popcorn. If you want to stick to the traditional route, you can also try wheat, which is a symbol of bounty, or sugared nuts, which symbolise sweetness in marriage.
If you want to avoid throwing anything at all, you can offer your guests flags to wave, or bicycle bells to ring as you exit. Sparklers are another popular option, but they do come with fire risks.
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Sparklers and lightsabers
Sparklers
Sparklers are a fun and shimmering way to celebrate the couple's exit. They create a mesmerizing canopy for the couple to walk under and make for stunning photographs. It is important to ensure that the venue allows sparklers and that they meet all fire ordinance requirements. Opt for sparklers that are long-lasting and marketed as safe for weddings.
Lightsabers
For a Star Wars-themed wedding or for couples who are fans of the franchise, lightsabers can be a fun and dramatic send-off. Guests can be given lightsabers to line up on either side of the couple, creating a colourful tunnel for their exit. This idea can be combined with foam glow sticks, which are bigger and show up better in photographs, creating a memorable send-off.
To ensure the safety of the couple and guests, it is important to consider a cold sparkler machine as an alternative to traditional sparklers. This is especially relevant if guests will be consuming alcohol, as it eliminates the risk of accidents with open flames.
Additionally, some couples have incorporated lightsabers into their wedding ceremonies with a choreographed duel, adding a unique and quirky element to their special day.
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Biodegradable confetti and glitter
Biodegradable confetti comes in a variety of colours and shapes, allowing you to find the perfect match for your wedding theme and style. You can also choose from a range of packaging options, including personalised confetti bags. For a unique exit toss, you can even place the biodegradable confetti in paper cones, or paper bags with a custom message.
Biodegradable glitter is also an option for your wedding. It is larger than normal glitter, making it easier to clean up and ensuring it shows up in your wedding photos. You can combine it with biodegradable confetti for a sparkling and colourful wedding send-off.
If you are looking for a natural option, dried flower petals are a great choice. They are eco-friendly and can be left to biodegrade without any need for clean-up. They also add a gorgeous, scented touch to your celebration.
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Bubbles and paper planes
Bubbles
Bubbles are a great alternative to the traditional rice toss and can add a playful and whimsical touch to your wedding exit. They are also a good option if you want to avoid being pelted with items like rice, confetti, or flower petals. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Dress Material: If your wedding dress is made of silk, Mikado, or crepe, you may want to avoid bubbles as water or moisture could discolor the fabric.
- Transportation: If you plan to fly to your wedding destination, consider how you will transport the bubbles. Shipping them or carrying them in your checked luggage may result in leaks. Carrying them in your carry-on luggage will likely result in extra security checks.
- Environmental Impact: Some people may be concerned about the amount of plastic waste generated by bubble containers.
- Clean-up: Bubbles may require additional clean-up, especially if they are used indoors.
Paper Planes
Paper planes are a unique and creative idea that can add a playful element to your wedding. They can also be a meaningful way to incorporate a personal story, such as a long-distance relationship, into your celebration. Here are some things to consider:
- Personalization: You can personalize the paper planes with your wedding colors, designs, or messages.
- DIY Option: Making paper planes can be a fun DIY project for you and your wedding party.
- Clean-up: Paper planes may require clean-up, especially if they are made from non-biodegradable materials.
- Venue Restrictions: Check with your venue to ensure that throwing paper planes is allowed.
Both bubbles and paper planes offer a fun and memorable experience for you and your guests. They can be a great way to involve your guests in your send-off and create unique photo opportunities.
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Frequently asked questions
Some eco-friendly options for throwing things at weddings include birdseed, flower petals, and biodegradable confetti.
Rice is a traditional option for throwing things at weddings, symbolising abundance and fertility.
Some unique options for throwing things at weddings include glitter, sprinkles, and streamers.
Some alternatives to throwing things at weddings include sparklers, bubbles, and flags.
