From Rice to Ribbons

Eco-Friendly Ways to Celebrate Love

Wedding couple celebrating this service with sparklers.

Rethink Throwing Rice at Weddings

For generations, the image of a newlywed couple dashing through a shower of rice has been a symbol of joy, celebration, and new beginnings. But as traditions evolve and our awareness grows, many couples and guests are beginning to ask: is throwing rice still the best way to celebrate love?

Let’s take a closer look at where this tradition came from, why it may be time to retire it, and what beautiful alternatives are available for today’s weddings

A Tradition Rooted in Symbolism

The custom of throwing rice dates back thousands of years. In ancient Roman and Hindu cultures, grains like rice, wheat, and millet were tossed over newlyweds to symbolize fertility, prosperity, and abundance. Rice, in particular, was seen as a life-giving crop—an offering of hope for a fruitful marriage and a prosperous future.

As this tradition spread across cultures and continents, it became a staple in Western weddings, often seen as a joyful and photogenic way to send off the couple.

Let Go of the Rice Toss

While the sentiment behind the tradition is beautiful, the practice itself has come under scrutiny in recent years for several reasons:

The Bird Myth—And the Truth

There’s a long-standing myth that uncooked rice is harmful to birds, causing it to expand in their stomachs and potentially harm or even kill them. Fortunately, this has been thoroughly debunked by ornithologists and wildlife experts. Birds can safely eat rice—many species do so in the wild and in agricultural areas without issue.

However, this myth sparked a broader conversation about the environmental and practical downsides of rice tossing, which brings us to the next points.

Environmental and Safety Concerns

Even though rice isn’t dangerous to birds, it can still be problematic. It’s slippery underfoot, creating a safety hazard for guests. It’s also difficult to clean up and can damage landscaping or clog drainage systems—especially at outdoor venues.

Venue Restrictions

Because of these concerns, many churches, parks, and event spaces now prohibit rice tossing altogether. The cleanup, potential for injury, and maintenance issues have led to strict rules that couples must navigate when planning their big day.

A Shift in Symbolism

Modern couples are increasingly looking for ways to make their weddings more personal, meaningful, and aligned with their values. For many, that means moving away from outdated customs and embracing new traditions that reflect who they are.

Joyful and Meaningful Alternatives

Fortunately, there are countless creative and eco-friendly ways to celebrate a couple’s union without tossing rice. Here are a few favorites:

🌸 Natural Confetti

Dried flower petals, lavender buds, or biodegradable confetti offer a colorful and fragrant alternative that’s gentle on the environment and stunning in photos.

🎀 Ribbon Wands

Guests can wave ribbon wands in the couple’s wedding colors for a whimsical and elegant send-off. They’re reusable, silent, and safe for all ages.

🫧 Bubbles

Bubbles add a magical, lighthearted touch to any exit. They’re fun for kids and adults alike—and they make for dreamy, sparkling photos.

🔔 Bells or Chimes

Hand out small bells or chimes for guests to ring as the couple walks by. The sound is joyful and symbolic of celebration and harmony.

✨ Sparklers

For evening weddings, sparklers create a dazzling tunnel of light. Just be sure to check with your venue about fire safety regulations.

Celebrate with Intention

Weddings are a reflection of love, community, and shared values. As we move forward, it’s important to choose traditions that honor not just the past, but also the future we want to build—one that’s thoughtful, inclusive, and sustainable.

So the next time you attend a wedding, consider leaving the rice behind and embracing a new way to celebrate. After all, love deserves to be honored in ways that are as beautiful and meaningful as the couple themselves.

💍 Ready to Say “I Do” Your Way?

When you're ready to take the next step in your love story, Juniper Flats Ministry is here to help make your ceremony unforgettable. Schedule a free consultation with Rev. Benny Raskin, who will work with you to craft a personal, heartfelt service that reflects your unique bond and shared journey.

Your Love Deserves More Than Ordinary.