Having a flower girl sprinkle flower petals down the aisle is a popular tradition at many weddings. However, some brides and grooms are looking for alternative options that are more environmentally friendly, unique, or cost effective. There are several creative alternatives to having a flower girl drop petals that can add personality and meaning to your ceremony.
Reasons to Consider an Alternative
Here are some of the main reasons couples may want to skip having a flower girl drop petals:
– Cost – Fresh flower petals can be expensive, especially for organic or specialty flowers. Artificial petals don’t biodegrade. Other alternatives like bells or ribbons are much more affordable.
– Waste – Fresh petals usually just get swept up at the end. It can feel wasteful to scatter single-use flowers on the floor.
– Allergies – Some guests may be allergic to certain flowers or pollen that gets stirred up.
– Stains – Flower petals can sometimes stain fabrics if stepped on or crushed. This can damage dresses, suits, aisle runners, etc.
– Safety – Loose petals could cause slipping or tripping. This is especially a risk for elderly guests, those wearing heels, or kids.
– Mess – Petals may get ground into carpet or tracked around, making more cleanup work.
– Lack of meaning – While pretty, petals don’t carry much symbolic significance for most couples. Others may want something more personal.
– Theme – Flower petals may simply not fit your wedding style or theme. There are many creative alternatives that can align better.
Unique Alternatives to Dropping Flower Petals
If you want to skip the traditional flower girl petal toss, what are some good alternatives? Here are 10 creative ideas to consider:
1. Bubbles
Have your flower girl blow bubbles down the aisle instead of dropping petals. Bubble wands are inexpensive and bubbles add a light, airy, magical feeling. Just be careful about possible slipping hazards.
2. Ribbons
Long ribbons can be trailed down the aisle and tied onto chairs or pews. Choose ribbon colors to match your wedding palette. This creates a pretty decoration that can remain after the ceremony.
3. Sparklers
Small handheld sparklers are a dramatic, eye-catching alternative. Just be sure to check that venue rules and local laws allow them. Appoint ushers to gently collect spent sparklers in buckets of water or sand.
4. Scarves
For a boho vibe, have your flower girl wave light, gauzy scarves as she walks down the aisle. Pick lightweight fabrics that billow and float.
5. Streamers
Multicolored crepe paper streamers can be used to line the aisle edges. The flower girl can carry the spool and unravel streamers as she walks.
6. Bells
Tie small bells onto a wand or staff for the flower girl to ring joyfully as she walks. The sound will beautifully accentuate the processional music.
7. Birdseed
Sprinkling biodegradable birdseed is an eco-friendly option, and attracts good luck according to some traditions. Just provide cones for easy scattering.
8. Flower crowns
Rather than dropping loose petals, your flower girl could wear a stunning flower crown and carry a small nosegay. This channels flower power in a subtler way.
9. Greens
Consider using fresh herb sprigs, ferns, eucalyptus, etc. These give an earthy scent and can later be used in wedding centerpieces.
10. Poems
For a literary flair, have your flower girl carry a basket or parasol adorned with printed poems, lyrics, or quotes.
Tips for Alternative Flower Girls
If you opt for something other than loose petals, here are some useful tips:
– Choose lightweight, easy-to-handle materials that won’t distract the flower girl from walking down the aisle. Streamers, bubbles, and ribbons work better than bulky items.
– Give clear instructions and let the flower girl practice ahead of time. Make sure she understands where to stand during the ceremony.
– Provide a container or basket to hold and carry scattering items. Baskets adorned with bows add to the cute factor.
– Think about cleanup. Supply ushers with bags for collecting items or materials that could stain.
– Check with your venue about any restrictions on materials like sparklers, live flower petals, food items, etc. Some places prohibit certain items.
– For messy or slippery items like birdseed or bubbles, designate an aisle runner or marked path so the flower girl has solid footing.
– Schedule the flower girl to walk just before the bride’s entrance for maximum visibility and photo opportunities.
– If using real flower petals, select hardy varieties that won’t bruise or wilt easily underfoot for the duration of the ceremony.
Meaningful Alternatives
Beyond the element of surprise and visual appeal, you may want your flower girl’s scattering item to have symbolic meaning. Here are some ideas:
| Item | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Lavender | Devotion |
| Rosemary | Remembrance |
| Birdseed | Fertility, new beginnings |
| Seashells | Life’s journey |
| Star confetti | Dreams, wishes |
You could also incorporate religious or cultural traditions like the Hindu flower girl scattering turmeric for prosperity. Talk to your officiant about options with spiritual significance.
The scattering item doesn’t have to be flowers or even petal-like at all. Get creative with materials and themes that speak to you as a couple. Your aisle decor kicks off the whole event, so make it distinctly you.
Conclusion
While a flower girl sprinkling rose petals is classic, it’s definitely not your only option. From bubbles to sparklers to herbs, there are so many creative, beautiful, and meaningful alternatives. Choosing something eco-friendly, budget-friendly, or deeply personal can make your ceremony even more special.
Work with your flower girl’s age and abilities. Provide a container that’s not too heavy when filled. And consider cleanup needs depending on your venue. With so many possibilities, you can let your style shine through right from the start of your big day.
No matter what you choose, embrace the chance to begin your wedding with a joyful, symbolic ritual. Your flower girl will love playing her special part to kick off the celebrations, and guests will delight in your unique aisle style.