10 Eco-Friendly Wedding Send-Off Alternatives

Gone are the days of throwing rice as the bride and groom make their grand exit. Of course, if you choose to use rice, there’s no danger to wildlife, but many venues have made the decision not to use rice and other confetti-like materials for cleanup purposes.

In honor of Earth Day, we’ve compiled a list of 10 rice and confetti alternatives that are great for easy cleanup and completely safe for the environment.

1. Flowers/Petals

Dried flowers or flower petals are not only romantic and colorful, they’re also 100% natural. If there’s a few buds missed during cleanup, it won’t be a big deal whatsoever.

2. Leaves

Small green leaves are eco-friendly and make for lovely, rich photos. If you’re planning a fall wedding, collecting leaves from the ground, and having your guests throw those will look like you’re dancing through an autumn wonderland.

3. Birdseeds

Cleanup is practically unnecessary. Plus, if you’re still nervous about birds consuming rice, actual birdseed is a smart alternative.

4. Lavender

Lavender or other dried herbs are beautiful, sweet-smelling and all natural. Perfect for outdoor sendoffs.

5. Ribbon wands

You’ll receive the fairyland send-off with wands decorated with ribbon. Add in a bell and you’ll have a chorus follow you as you go. Even better, they never touch the ground and your guests can keep them as a reminder of your day.

6. Biodegradable confetti

Confetti and other confetti-like materials (glitter, sequins) are classic and fun for a wedding send-off, but unless you’re doing it inside, cleanup is difficult. With biodegradable confetti, if you miss some, it’ll just disappear in time.

7. Bubbles

A whimsical alternative that looks great in photos, especially if you do your send-off at the perfect time of day, when the bubbles catch the light just right. Bubbles also require zero cleanup.

8. Paper airplanes

Adorable, perfect for the well-traveled couple, and large enough to make cleanup easy. They also act as well-wishes as you head off on your honeymoon.

9. Sparklers

A popular choice that makes for some amazing send-off photos, especially at night. Sparklers are just as fun for your guests as they are for you.

10. Glow sticks

A substitute for sparklers that are fun, clean, and great for evening send-offs.

Whatever you go with for your send-off, it should be 100 percent you, as long as your venue clears it. Easy cleanup is definitely a huge perk, but as long as it matches your style and you’re happy with the outcome, a good time will be had by all. And your pictures will look amazing!

There are so many small details that go into creating your dream wedding, but that doesn’t mean you should have to stress. Generation Tux lets you sample your clothing before the big day, in the comfort of your living room. See what we have to offer to make your union extraordinary.