How Much Wedding Confetti Do You Need? A Guest-Count Guide
You've found the venue, chosen the dress, and finally agreed on the playlist. Now someone asks the question that stops you in your tracks: "So... how much confetti do we actually need?"
It's one of the most common questions we hear, and after more than 12 years of helping couples plan their confetti moments, we've got a pretty good feel for it. Order too little and the back row of guests are left throwing imaginary petals. Order too much and you're carrying a suitcase of spare confetti home.
So, let's get it just right. Grab your guest list and let's do the maths together (don't worry, it's the easy kind).
The quick answer
As a rule of thumb, plan on a handful of petal confetti per guest. That works out at roughly 100ml per person, or about 1 litre for every 10 guests. The larger-sized petals work slightly differently (freeze-dried petals or preserved rose petals) 1 litre for 6-8 handfuls.
Your confetti calculation cheat sheet
Cones, envelopes or handfuls: which should you choose?
Confetti cones are the classic choice. Each one holds 100ml of petals, so they're perfect for handing out to guests as they arrive/leave the ceremony. No scooping, no fuss, and everyone gets the same amount. If you're having an aisle or exit throw, cones are the easiest way to keep things organised.
Envelopes are great if you'd like to hand out neat little packets of petals. We have two types: glassine envelopes hold 60ml each, and biofilm envelopes hold 100ml, to provide one guest's share. Because the glassine ones are smaller, we usually recommend those for use with the smaller-sized petals (larkspur, jasmine, heat-dried rose, lavender).
Handfuls for those who love a more dramatic moment, petals scattered along the aisle or a big overhead throw.
@constancedoylephotography
Not everyone will throw (and that's fine!)
Here's a little secret: you probably don't need to count every single guest.
Young children often enjoy the petals more than they throw them, while some guests prefer to watch. If your guest list includes plenty of little ones or you expect a few non-throwers, you can safely trim your estimate by around 10 to 15 per cent. HOWEVER, always discuss the confetti moment with your venue/photographer/wedding planner to find out how they go about organising it. We have noticed over recent years a trend to get everyone involved in the confetti moment. Having this discussion will help you understand how many guests you need to cater for.
If you want a really full, abundant look, add a little extra. It's always nicer to have a few handfuls to spare than to run short.
When you might need a bit more
The cheat sheet is a great starting point, but a few things can change the numbers:
- You want petals on the aisle too. If you're scattering petals down the aisle as well as throwing them, add roughly 1 to 2 litres per metre of aisle to your total.
- You're having two confetti moments. Ceremony and exit throws? Plan for both, or ask guests to save a few petals for later.
- It's an outdoor wedding. A little breeze may carry petals away quickly, so a touch of extra is a good idea.
- You want a bigger, fluffier look in photos. More petals means a fuller cloud in the air, which photographers love.
A few handy tips for a smooth confetti moment
- Hand it out in advance. Pop an envelope on each seat, or ask an usher to pass the cones round before the photographs.
- Brief your guests. A quick "throw on the count of three" from your photographer or wedding co-ordinator makes for much better pictures.
- Check your venue's rules first. Many venues have their own confetti policies, and biodegradable petals are often the preferred choice. Our guide to UK venue confetti rules can help.
- Order a little early. Give yourself time to receive your confetti and check you're happy with the amount before the big day.
Why petal confetti is a lovely choice
Our dried flower petal confetti is fully biodegradable, so it's kind to the venue grounds, the wildlife and the planet. It also looks beautiful, with soft, natural colours that show up wonderfully against dresses, suits and venue backdrops.
If you'd like to see the colours and options, take a look at our wedding confetti collection.
Ready to order?
Now you know your numbers, the fun part begins: choosing your colours! Browse our petal confetti and find the perfect shade to match your day. And if you're still not sure how much to order, send us a message. We're always happy to help.
Happy planning!
The Dried Petal Company
