Alternatives to Rose Petals - What Can They Toss?

[phruitdish]

Hi everyone!

I just hit a major snag with the site we want to book: they do not allow rice, flower petals, confetti, or glitter. I do NOT want bubbles (no offense, of course -- it's just not me). Since this is a winery in the midst of the vineyard, we think that the anti-rose sentiment stems (hah) from the possibility of introducing diseases that could affect the vines, and are hoping that we can convince our site coordinator to let us have silk petals. Since there's no confetti allowed, it's going to be a stretch, I think, though we're very, very good customers at the winery, so I'm hoping that we can work something out. I was heartbroken, and it's a dealbreaker for me!

I can't assume that they'll agree to my alternative, though -- I know this. I'm hoping a few brides-to-be or newlyweds can help me brainstorm some vineyard-friendly alternatives. Could you please help me out here?

Thanks in advance! :)
The Phruit Dish

[duckyz22fcaa]

I'm thinking about waiting until we get to your reception site and throwing it as we walk in, or just skipping it all together because my chuch is the same way. (I'm not into the bubbles either) If you still want to do it you can talk to the winery about the biodegradible (sp?) confetti, some of it is gone within 24 hours. That's all I have for you, I hope it helped!

[phruitdish]

Hi Ashley!

Unfortunately, our ceremony and reception site are one and the same. I'll definitely look into biodegradable options, though -- thanks for the tip, and the help! :)

I'm also thinking butterflies...truly excited about that!

The Phruit Dish

[duckyz22fcaa]

I haven't heard too many good experiences with butterflies. I've heard that a lot of the time the butterflies are either dead or they're so stunned that they don't fly out of their envelopes, and if you toss them out they just lay on the ground. So be careful!

[sillybride]

Have you considered noise makers, flags with your wedding date and name on them or those things that the kids use at birthday parties. Not sure what they are called, but they roll in and out.
Butterflies are a good idea, but it depends on the climate and time of year that you are having your wedding. I don't recommend them. Most die shortly aftewards, because they don't know how to survive after they are released.
Doves are also another alternative, but can be very expensive.

[phruitdish]

I'm definitely afraid of them arriving dead -- stunned is something I hadn't considered. I've seen some really nice butterfly release cages, though, and I think I might try one of those. Once I receive the butterflies, I'd place them in the cage with some sugar water and a few pretty twigs, and let them recuperate. I got engaged on Dec. 18th on a fairly mild day, and I saw no fewer than three butterflies at the winery at that time -- can you believe it? I'm hoping that our mild climate may support them. Maybe some wild butterflies will take them in and show them the ropes at the winery. ;)

Migraines are a pretty serious problem for me, and loud noises trigger them, so I think the noise makers are out. I'll take a look at commemorative flags -- thanks for the idea!

I'd love doves, and thought about it this morning, but I will have to agree with you insofar as it will probably be out of my budget. Wouldn't the same sort of concerns apply as with butterflies? If they're captive-bred, especially if hand-fed, I'd think they may have a hard time adjusting to the wild as well, especially since raptors (birds of prey) are pretty prevalent in the area.

Thanks Ashley, SillyBride! I definitely appreciate your input and brainstorming! It's helping my gears turn. :)

The Phruit Dish

[FutureMrsBuck]

The "doves" are actually white homing pigeons. You release them and they fly back to their point of origin. It is truly beautiful and we are considering them at our wedding. We live in small town USA and there is a guy who has the "doves" and has packages starting at $200 but I imagine that price varies from place to place. I am just nervous that they may do their business on us or our guests.

[phruitdish]

LOL, I hear those worries -- I'll keep my fingers crossed for you! ;)

That is so neat...thanks for giving me more info on the doves! That's definitely different than I'd envisioned. It's out of my ideal budget, but we'll see. :)

Enjoy those beautiful doves, and thanks!

The Phruit Dish

[jlbarhorstcfcd]

At my son's wedding, he did "pary poppers" at the reception. The room was full of streamers as they walked in. Just be sure no candles are lit. The servers then went through the room and lit the candles. The noise of all the poppers going off and the streamers, it was quite a site.

[stephy_qutieebfe]

At least if the dove did do their dirty deeds. In a couple of years you can look back and laugh. As long as they didn't go on you, becuase only matters that the bride is bueatiful that day. I'm sure they won't let you do this because they are being such stricklers. But have you thought about sparklers, I think they would be fun.

[weddingideasguide]

What about bird seed? You didn't mention that being on the list.

Butterfly releases can work well, and we have seen many beautiful ceremonies end with them.

Make sure the vendor is reliable. Ask for references and call them. Make sure they delivered what they said they would and that they were alive and well.

Doves would work, but it will definitely be more expensive and a lot more work.

[Boston]

Paper airplanes. Seriously. They can be any color, you could even have the guests make them themselves at the tables if you want.

Don't bother to get clearance from the tower to do a flyby, Maverick, just do it. They're easy to pick up.

(Yes, I know I'm slightly twisted in the head. I prefer to call it creative.)

[jamieliegh]

I had a friend who had everyone hold sparklers as the walked if it is a day wedding it isn't as pretty as at dusk or night