How Many Rose Petals Do I Need for a Wedding Exit?

To determine the number of rose petals needed for a wedding exit, you need to consider several factors, including the number of guests, the desired coverage per guest, the type of rose petals, and the specific wedding exit style.
Number of Guests and Desired Coverage

Guest Count: Assume you have 100 guests attending the wedding.
Coverage per Guest: For a traditional wedding exit, 1-2 handfuls of rose petals per guest is common. Let’s use 1.5 handfuls as an average.
Type of Rose Petals and Costs
Fresh Rose Petals
Quantity: Fresh rose petals are often sold in bulk, with each bag containing between 8 to 12 cups of petals (approximately 0.61 pounds).
Cost: Costs can vary, but you can expect to pay around $3 to $15 per square foot depending on the density of coverage.
Usage: For tossing, a general guideline is 1/3 to 1/2 cup of fresh rose petals per guest.
Dried Rose Petals
Quantity: Dried rose petals are lighter and require less volume for the same coverage. For tossing, 1/3 to 1/2 cup of dried petals per guest is recommended.
Cost: Dried rose petals are generally less expensive than fresh ones but can vary based on the supplier.
Biodegradable Rose Petals (Silk)
Quantity: For tossing, 12 to 18 silk rose petals per guest are recommended.
Cost: Silk petals are often more cost-effective in the long run but can vary based on quality and supplier.
Calculations for Wedding Exit
Fresh Rose Petals
Quantity Needed: For 100 guests with 1.5 handfuls (approximately 1 cup) per guest:
– 100 guests × 1 cup/guest = 100 cups
– Given that each bag contains 8-12 cups, you would need 10 bags (assuming 10 cups per bag for simplicity).
Dried Rose Petals
Quantity Needed: For 100 guests with 1/3 to 1/2 cup per guest, let’s use 0.4 cups as an average:
– 100 guests × 0.4 cups/guest = 40 cups
– Given the density, you might need fewer bags compared to fresh petals, but the exact number depends on the supplier’s packaging.
Biodegradable (Silk) Rose Petals
Quantity Needed: For 100 guests with 15 petals per guest (average of 12-18):
– 100 guests × 15 petals/guest = 1500 petals
– This can be adjusted based on the specific coverage desired.
Logistical Considerations
Sourcing
Local Suppliers: Local flower shops can provide fresh rose petals, but for bulk orders, online wholesale retailers are often more cost-effective.
Delivery Options: Ensure that the supplier can deliver the rose petals 1-2 days before the event to maintain freshness.
Storage
Fresh Rose Petals: Store in the shipping bag to preserve humidity. Keep in a cool, dark environment. No refrigeration is required, but a cooler room with AC is recommended.
Dried Rose Petals: Can be stored at room temperature in airtight containers to maintain their condition.
Biodegradable (Silk) Rose Petals: Store in a dry place to prevent moisture damage.
Summary
- Fresh Rose Petals: Approximately 10 bags (each containing 8-12 cups) for 100 guests.
- Dried Rose Petals: Approximately 40 cups for 100 guests.
- Biodegradable (Silk) Rose Petals: Approximately 1500 petals for 100 guests.
Reference
- Fiftyflowers: Real Rose Petals: Buying, Prepping And Storing 101
- Team Flower: Rose Petals: How to Calculate Quantities and Pricing
- Petal Garden: Petal Quantity Calculator