Alternatives to Throwing Rice at the Wedding Exit

Many reception locations do not allow rice to be thrown, as it makes a mess, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a fun send off. Below are some alternatives to the traditional rice toss.

Bubbles – Bubbles have become popular in recent years for many reasons. They can be purchased easily and once the bubbles pop, there is no clean up other than the bottles used to hold the soapy mixture. These cute swan wedding cake bubbles will add a festive touch to your exit. 

Sparklers – Sparkles are a newer trend for the bridal couple’s exit. Lit sparklers, especially during a night reception, can make for stunning photographs. Do note, however, that it takes timing to get all the guests’ sparklers lit at the same time, so supply the attendants with lighters to pass around. The Pretty Blog has a fantastic DIY sparkler wrapper template for you to use. 

Jingle Bells – Especially fun for a winter wedding, give guests a jingle bell or two tied to a ribbon to ring. There is an old superstition that wedding bells can ward off evil spirits and start you on your wedded life, but even if you don’t believe in superstitions, they still look and sound cheerful. 

Enjoy your final moments as a bride with these alternative send offs.

Groomsmen Gift Ideas

Let your groomsmen know you appreciate their participation in your wedding with a special gift. Here are some ideas for gifts your groomsmen will enjoy.

DIY Etched Glass Beer Pints – With some etching cream, letter stickers and plain pint glasses you can create custom beer glasses for the groomsmen.  The guys will like the fact they can use the gift daily. 

Like the look but don’t want to make them yourself?  You can buy engraved sports mugs.

Socks – With tux and shoe rentals, most groomsmen think they are ready to rock the wedding. An easily overlooked detail for guys is dress socks. Be sure they have some dark socks to match plus add a dash of fun with these groomsmen socks. 

DIY Box of Goodies – Put together a box full of treats for the men. This version contains a flask, bourbon and brownies, but the possibilities of what you could include are endless. 

DIY Cufflinks – If your tuxes require cufflinks, it is important to note many men these days don’t own a pair! Why not make them cufflinkswith their monogram or favorite sports team logo? They will thank you for not having to go purchase a pair of cufflinks to use only once.

Groomsmen invest their time and money in to being part of your big day, so be sure to say thank you to them with a meaningful gift.