Introduction: Confetti tosses are one of the most joyful moments of a wedding day, filled with energy, laughter, and smiles - exactly the kind of moments I love to capture. But as with every element of your wedding, a bit of planning can turn your confetti moment into an unforgettable scene, perfectly framed for stunning photos. Here’s everything you need to know to make your confetti toss magical.
1. Understand Your Venue’s Confetti Policies
Before you start picking your favourite type of confetti, check your venue’s rules. Town halls and registry offices often have strict no-confetti policies for environmental or cleanup reasons, but don’t worry - there are still options! For indoor ceremonies, think about alternatives such as bubbles, dried petals, or even eco-friendly metallic confetti poppers for a touch of glamour.
For outdoor weddings - whether it’s in a field, at a country estate, or outside a church - biodegradable confetti is the way to go. It’s safe for the environment, easy to clean up, and often the only type allowed at many venues.
2. Pick the Perfect Confetti for Photographs
If you’re aiming for those dream-like, editorial-style confetti shots, the type of confetti matters.
Biodegradable Petals or Confetti Pieces:
These not only look beautiful but also fall gracefully, giving me time to capture the perfect shot. Dried flower petals, such as lavender or rose petals, create a romantic vibe.
Bold Colours:
If your wedding theme allows for it, pick bright colours that pop against the backdrop. A mix of gold and white works beautifully for elegance, while rainbow hues bring a fun, playful feel.
Large Pieces Over Small:
Larger confetti pieces, whether paper or petal, fall more slowly and are more likely to appear prominently in your photos.
3. Plan the Confetti Toss Location
The right location can make all the difference. For town halls or after-church ceremonies, the iconic shot is often taken as you exit the building. Check the lighting at your venue ahead of time; soft natural light is perfect, and shadows can be avoided with some smart positioning.
For field or outdoor ceremonies, wide-open spaces offer a stunning backdrop. Think about the season too—golden hour lighting in summer is particularly magical.
If it’s raining, consider moving the confetti toss indoors. A dramatic staircase or an entrance hall with great architectural features can create a striking indoor alternative.
4. Get Guests Involved
Guests sometimes need a little encouragement to throw confetti effectively for those editorial shots. Arrange guests in two clear lines to create a confetti aisle. This ensures even coverage as you walk through, and it creates a natural framing for your photos.
Tossing Technique Tips:
Encourage guests to throw upwards rather than at you! This creates a cascade effect, prolonging the moment and keeping you comfortable.
5. Be Prepared for the Weather
Weather in the UK is famously unpredictable, but that doesn’t mean your confetti moment has to suffer.
Rainy Day Alternatives:
Instead of traditional confetti, opt for bubbles, ribbon wands, or sparklers (if your venue allows). These can create magical moments indoors or under covered areas.
Windy Days:
If your ceremony is outdoors, consider petals or slightly heavier confetti to avoid it being carried away too quickly.
6. Don’t Skimp on Confetti
More is more when it comes to confetti. Small handfuls can look sparse in photos, so make sure there’s plenty to go around. Consider providing pre-filled confetti cones or baskets for guests so everyone is ready when the moment comes.
7. Enjoy the Moment!
When the time comes, don’t overthink it. Walk slowly, keep your heads up, and enjoy the celebration around you. The best confetti photos happen when couples are relaxed, happy, and fully immersed in the moment.
Conclusion
Your confetti toss should reflect the joy and excitement of your wedding day, and with a bit of planning, it can be a standout moment in both your memories and your photos. I’ll be there to capture the story as it unfolds, creating timeless images you’ll cherish forever.