Why do people Toss Rice at a wedding?

It is said that by tossing rice at the bride and groom following the ceremony that  the newlyweds brought good luck.  In the days of the horse and buggy, the guests used to shower them with nuts and grains to insure a bountiful harvest, and many children to work the land. During years of a poor harvest, rice was tossed instead. This tradition continues today with rice or birdseed (where permitted),  flower peddles or bubbles to wish the Bride and Groom much happiness. Incidentally, it is not true that birds eating rice thrown after a wedding ceremony will cause their stomachs to enlarge and eventually explode.  If you decide to incorporate this to your wedding and please make arrangements to have someone pick up any left over confetti or flower peddles.  As a wedding photographer in Maui, I mostly see confetti, bubbles and flower peddles. Having the guess participate in this tradition surly is a great addition to bride and groom’s wedding  photos.