Confetti know-how

One of the most spontaneous pictures in any wedding album is the moment the photographer captures colourful confetti raining down on the laughing newlyweds. Traditionally guests threw rice over the happy couple to wish them a lifetime of good fortune but over the centuries rice evolved into confetti and, at one time, most guests picked up a box of standard, multi-coloured confetti at the corner-shop. However, couples today are increasingly choosing the shades of confetti they want by providing it themselves. They are also opting for colour-themed petals rather than confetti, either fresh or preserved, which they carry through to the reception where it is also used to decorate tables.

One increasingly popular idea is to provide confetti or petals in paper cones, perhaps in a shade that complements the wedding's colour scheme or in paper printed with the details of the day, a special poem or even a score of music from the ceremony. Another way to ensure that you are only showered with confetti or petals of your own choosing is to provide large baskets outside the ceremony, perhaps carried by bridesmaids or pages, so that guests can grab a handful as they leave.

Remember

• Most churches, register offices and approved premises have strict rules governing the use of confetti, so check with your minister or venue contact first. Virtually all will ban the use indoors and - because even the gentlest breeze can blow the pieces where they're not wanted - many will only allow it in designated areas outdoors.
• Bear in mind the time of year. Both paper confetti and petals can bleed if it is drizzling or if the pieces land on warm, perspiring skin.
• Think carefully about the size of your confetti. Very small pieces may seem like a good idea but you could find yourself picking it off your skin and out of your hair all day long. Larger pieces are easier to remove before the reception. Keep the smaller, metallic or glittery versions for decorating tables.
• Children get very excited at the prospect of throwing things over the bride and groom, so if you have a limited amount of personalised confetti or scented petals, ask someone to check that young attendants don't hog it all. Keep some back for that perfect photo moment and only give a little to bridesmaids and pages or you may find the whole lot on the ground before you have both feet outside the church door!

Photo www.lovegroveweddings.com

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