Here at J.T. Meleck, we’ve always known our handcrafted rice spirits were special, but lately, we’ve noticed a trend that adds another level of uniqueness to our product. Louisiana Rice Vodka Signature Drinks at Weddings
Incorporating rice into events leading up to or during the actual day of the ceremony is a longstanding tradition that has evolved over the last few hundred years. Which leads us to the main question: Why do we throw a hail of tiny white rice grains at the newly married couple as they make their way from the ceremony? Rice or grains symbolize fertility and are a symbol of prosperity. The wish was for the couple to have a family, and if your fields had a lot of grain growing in them, you were prosperous. Some of our favorite signature J.T. Meleck Signature wedding cocktails include:
J.T. Mint to Be J.T. Meleck Vodka, Pineapple Syrup, Muddled Lime and Mint Leaves, Topped with Lemon Lime Soda – Mint leaf garnish
J.T. Classic French 76 J.T. Meleck Vodka, Simple Syrup, Lemon Juice, and Champagne – Lemon twist garnish
J.T. Pink Petal J.T. Meleck Vodka, Pink Lemonade, and Lime – Lemon twist or edible dried flower garnish
For more information and signature cocktail ideas, email our team via [email protected]
“It’s a tradition for family and friends to shower the newlyweds with good wishes as they walk into a new life together,”
Shot of a happy newlywed young couple getting showered with confetti outdoors on their wedding day
What Is the Rice Toss?
The rice toss is a symbolic wish to the just-married couple for a life of prosperity and fruitfulness, which to the ancients meant many children. As a blessing, guests shower the couple with rice as they exit the ceremony.
Here, we delve into the ancient tradition with help from an expert.
The History and Meaning of the Rice Toss
The history and the tradition of showering newlyweds at a wedding with rice, seed, and grains predate Christianity. The Celts, mighty warriors, were also an agronomist culture who tossed rice, millet, and other grains to appease spirits and ask for blessing and fertility for the couple. Ancient Romans used wheat. Italians toss candies or sugared nuts. The Polish use rice but also place coins at the couple’s feet to ensure prosperity. In Morocco, it’s dried dates or figs and Eastern India’s tradition is a rain of flower petals.
“It’s a tradition for family and friends to shower the newlyweds with good wishes as they walk into a new life together,” adds Nora. No matter the culture, the significance of the throw is similar. It’s a demonstrative ritual performed by the guests and family to wish the couple good fortune, a prosperous marriage, and children if they desire.”
