Confetti that feeds the birds
Apr 15th, 2009 by Henriette
We like the custom of throwing stuff over the bride and groom after the ceremony as it traditionally signifies bestowing prosperity and fertility on the couple and is a well loved custom in both Denmark and the UK.
We will not be using rice (as is traditional in Denmark) as John is a great bird friend and they are not too happy about raw rice.
We will not be using confetti either as this is just downright bad for the environment and my parents’ lawn.
However, we have found inspiration in looking at the tradition as it was, and not as it has become over the last few years (we are both archaeologists so this is to be expected).
download life begins for andy hardy buy Mio nome è Nessuno, Il
Historically it was neither rice nor confetti which was used for this purpose but instead grains or peas. The old Greeks used to shower with figs, dates, nuts and small coinage.
We will be providing our guests with bags of perishables which will make the birds happy (e.g. grains, seeds, nuts) and if they want to throw coinage at us they will be more than welcome.
Photo courtesy of zimpenfish on Flickr
That’s an awesome idea – just make sure it doesnt attract unwelcome furry visitors though..!
We are doing this in Denmark and we don’t really have furry visitors where the wedding will be.
But thanks for the head’s up.