10 ideas for wedding sendoff throws

It's traditional to throw something at the bride and groom as they leave the wedding site, but choosing what that "something" is can be a bit of a challenge. The traditional wedding throw, rice, has been banned at many ceremony sites because it's hard to pick up and bad for wildlife. When searching for your rice alternative, look for something cheap, simple to use, and easy to clean up. Here's a list of 10 good ideas.

1.) Birdseed. Seeds are quickly becoming the standard alternative to rice. A big bag of birdseed will be enough for all your guests, and it doesn't cost much. It's easy to get rid of, too - just a wait a few days and birds will eat it. Ask your wedding site about birdseed before you buy it, however; some places discourage this throw because it attracts large numbers of birds, which make more mess than any other send-off toss alternative would.

2.) Bubbles. Another classic sendoff substance, bubbles are easy and don't make a mess. Some wedding supply businesses sell individual bubble containers with wedding designs. They're not the cheapest options out there, but buying bubbles won't break your budget either.

3.) Candies. Individually wrapped candies can be a great throw if you've got lots of kids (or candy-loving adults) around. After the sendoff throw, everyone can grab a few sweet treats. If you go this route, make sure someone sweeps up any remaining candies after guests have had their fill.

4.) Streamers. You can find miniature containers filled with multi-colored ribbon at some party supply stores. Usually, the ribbon stays attached to the container for easy clean up; everyone can just throw away their streamers after the send off. These are a festive way to celebrate, but they can be costly.

5.) Lavender. This sweet-smelling flower makes an inexpensive sendoff throw. Buy lavender in bulk and give guests little bags or paper cups filled with it. After the couple leaves the wedding site, the lavender can either be swept up or left on the ground to perfume the area.

6.) Sparklers. Nighttime weddings look gorgeous with a sparkler-lined sendoff. Obviously, these aren't thrown but held in the air as the bride and groom run by. Sparklers are cheap and aren't messy, making them a popular choice for modern ceremonies.

7.) Confetti. Find biodegradable confetti for an easy,colorful toss.

8.) Bells. Give each guest a bell to ring as you run by. Bells also double as wedding favors; have your names and dates engraved on them for a thoughtful memento guests can take home. Nice bells will be more expensive than other send-off options, but if they're made into favors the price can be worthwhile.

9.) Colored sand. Beach weddings can make a statement with a
sandy sendoff. Buy bulk colored sand--the kind used in sand art--and give a
handful to each guest. Instruct them to throw the sand in the air, not on the
bride and groom. If you get the sand in your wedding colors, it can be a nice
way to make the sendoff more personal.

10.) Rose petals. Freeze-dried rose petals aren't too expensive, but they're still gorgeous. Buy a bulk-sized bag and let each guest take a scoop. The petals will flutter when they're thrown, creating a romantic, hovering effect.