Throwing birdseed is a popular alternative to throwing rice at weddings. This tradition dates back centuries and has evolved over time. There are a few reasons why birdseed has become the throwable of choice for newlyweds.
It’s biodegradable
Birdseed is a natural, biodegradable substance that will not harm the environment. Rice, on the other hand, takes much longer to break down if not consumed by birds. Piles of thrown rice can sprout into rice plants if left uneaten. Birdseed poses less of an ecological threat. Its ingredients such as millet, oats, corn, sunflower seeds, and wheat berries can nourish local wildlife.
It’s feeding the birds
Speaking of nourishing wildlife, scattering birdseed is a symbolic way to feed the birds. There is a tradition that birds represent angels or departed loved ones who watch over the bride and groom. Throwing birdseed allows the wedding guests to participate by “feeding the birds” and invoking their spiritual protection.
It’s safer
Using birdseed reduces injuries compared to throwing rice. Rice particles are small, hard, and can be thrown fast enough to sting. Birdseed tends to be larger and softer. It is less likely to cause eye injuries or other harm. Some churches and venues began prohibiting rice for safety reasons. Birdseed provides a safer alternative that can still create that shower of good wishes.
It makes a memorable sight and sound
The sight and sound of birdseed raining down are quite different from rice. Birdseed flutters and floats more gently. The mix of textures and shapes creates visual interest. Each type of seed makes its own unique sound as it scatters. The combined effect is a lovely multi-sensory experience.
But why throw anything at all?
Wedding traditions carry meaningful symbolism. The act of tossing birdseed grew out of ancient beliefs about transferring fertility and prosperity to the newlyweds. Showering the married couple represented blessing them with abundance. Food ingredients like grain symbolized fertility for an agrarian society.
Another origin theory suggests rice throwing came from ancient Indian and Greek weddings where rice symbolized rain. Guests would throw rice to wish the couple a fruitful union. Early European weddings used wheat for a similar purpose. Newer generations then adopted birdseed as a replacement.
When did birdseed become popular?
Using birdseed is a relatively modern tradition. Rice remained the most popular substance until the late 20th century. But as more couples got married outdoors, they needed an eco-friendly alternative to rice.
Birdseed first gained traction in the 1980s as people became concerned over the environmental impact of rice. Its popularity grew over the 90s and 2000s. Now it is the number one choice for weddings wanting an eco-conscious, biodegradable material to toss.
How much should you buy?
The amount of birdseed needed depends on the number of guests. Here are some guidelines:
- 25 guests – 2-3 pounds
- 50 guests – 5-8 pounds
- 75 guests – 8-10 pounds
- 100 guests – 12-15 pounds
Or figure about 1/4 cup of birdseed per guest. Add a little extra as not all guests may participate. Portioning birdseed into small bags makes for neater throwing and easier cleanup.
What types of birdseed work best?
Look for birdseed blends formulated specifically for weddings. These include:
| Seed Type | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Millet | Small, round, tan seeds. Flutters gracefully when thrown. |
| Oats | Cheap, lightweight, and biodegradable. Can blow farther distances. |
| Sunflower seeds | Large, easy to grab. Crunchy sound when landed on. |
| Corn kernels | Fun, colorful bouncing effect. Visually striking. |
| Wheat berries | Harder texture than other seeds. Makes distinctive rattling noise. |
Mixes may also contain other seeds, dried flowers, and bits of broken rice cereal. Avoid single-ingredient bags like all millet. Blends give fun, diverse textures.
Where can you buy wedding birdseed?
Check for wedding birdseed at:
- Bulk food stores
- Craft stores
- Farm supply stores
- Online wedding vendors
Buy based on color, texture, and scent. Light-colored mixes photograph better. Low debris mixes reduce cleanup. Avoid heavily perfumed mixes near food.
For large weddings, buy in bulk online for cost savings. Smaller weddings can use pre-packaged boxes from craft stores. DIY enthusiasts can purchase ingredients separately.
How is the birdseed given to guests?
Some options for distributing birdseed packets:
- Place at each guest’s seat
- Include with wedding programs
- Hand out as guests arrive
- Insert in gift bags
Individual packets only need 1-2 tablespoons per guest. Wrapping birdseed in netting, tulle, or small paper envelopes contains the mess.
When is the birdseed thrown?
Traditionally, guests toss birdseed at the newlyweds as they exit the ceremony. It creates a dramatic sendoff for the couple’s departure. Some other birdseed throwing opportunities:
- As the couple re-enters at the reception
- During the first dance
- When the couple departs the reception
Discuss plans with the officiant and venue. Throwing inside requires cleaning, so outdoors is ideal. Tossing as the couple leaves the ceremony makes the most visual impact.
How do you clean up leftover birdseed?
Birdseed can leave behind a mess. Make cleanup easier by:
- Sweeping walkways
- Providing tarps for main throwing areas
- Placing garbage cans nearby
- Leaving seed for birds to continue eating
Consider hiring staff to tidy up the venue after guests depart. The couple may be busy with photographs and unable to clean.
Does birdseed attract unwanted pests?
Birdseed should not attract significant pest problems. The small amounts used at weddings get eaten quickly. Avoid spilled piles around food service areas. Storing extra seed away from pests will keep it from becoming a rodent snack later.
Are there any alternatives to birdseed?
Couples uncomfortable with birdseed can toss:
- Flower petals – fresh or dried
- Herbal blends – lavender, rose
- Eco-friendly confetti – star shapes, hearts
- Bubbles
- Butterflies – live or fake
- Sparklers
These create beautiful visual effects when thrown gently. Flower petals offer the iconic romantic look. Just confirm options with the venue first.
Conclusion
The tradition of throwing birdseed arose from ancient beliefs about blessing and abundance. It persists today as an eco-friendly alternative to rice that feeds hungry birds. Choosing birdseed brings good fortune, helps the earth, and makes memories with a festive shower of seeds to celebrate the newly married couple.
