Why do people throw rice at weddings? What do … This is a great and eco-friendly alternative. I went to a wedding the other day and people blew bubbles as the bride and groom departed. 2 Rice throwing is an ancient tradition, now mostly because venues don’t allow it. If your venue does not allow it, check out these fun ideas for what to throw at your weddings instead of rice. Most people of course don’t throw rice anymore, but only because some venues won’t allow it. June 22, 2012 July 2, 2012. And when the ceremony is over, many brides and grooms are pelted with rice. That got me thinking, why do people throw rice at weddings, or today birdseed, bubbles. If you want to do something nice for the earth on your big day, bird seed is an awesome way to go. The rice is considered a “life giving” seed. Weddings are weird. If you do want your guests to greet you as you leave your wedding, why not give out rose petals to throw? Nobody wants an accident to ruin their big day, which is why venues are increasingly telling people to leave the rice at home. What to Throw At Weddings Instead of Rice. It’ll create a beautiful effect without the stress. Before you whip a handful of starch at your newly married friends, let's examine why. Where else do you expect a room full of your friends to watch you exchange jewelry under the guidance of clergy? 1 Bird Seed.