Dove & Butterfly Release

There are many ways to make your wedding celebration special and unique. One way is to release doves or butterflies as you leave the church or as part of your reception. The beauty and symbolism will delight everyone, young and old. When deciding whether you prefer doves or butterflies there are several factors you should consider, including the season of the wedding, time of day of the wedding and the location.

Butterflies are cold-blooded creatures. Ideally the temperature should be between 60 and 70 degrees. If the weather is too warm, the butterflies become very active, if it is too cold they slow down. Most reputable butterfly ranches will not sell or ship the insects between November and March.

Doves, on the other hand, can be released year round. Like butterflies, however, they should not be released in bad weather. Butterflies, while awaiting release, should be kept in cool, shaded areas, away from direct sunlight. They should also be released at least one hour before sunset. Doves must be released during daylight hours. The birds, which can fly between 55 and 60 mph, must be given enough time to return home before dark. That is one of the reasons the location of your wedding is a factor. Each dove release professional has a distance limit for release, usually anywhere from 50 to 600 miles. When it comes time for the actual release, generally with butterflies you can do it yourself. For doves, ask the provider about the services of a release coordinator. Anyone can open a box; a trained release coordinator can give your release the art you are seeking. Dove and butterfly releases provide you with one more way to make your special day unique and memorable.