<< Left: A White Dove Wedding in Sacramento California by Doves of White
White doves at weddings are symbolic of celebration, new beginnings, peace, love, serenity and the Holy Spirit. They have been used in ceremonies throughout the world for centuries. Their beauty, as they soar into the sky and circle overhead is truly breathtaking. They have the ability to create a memory that guests will remember and talk about for years to come.
Wedding doves can represent eternal life, love, happiness and unity. They signify the celebration of the beginning of your new marriage together. This is a unique way to express that special love and joy you are feeling on your wedding day and really “wow” your family and guests. Something about them just tugs at our hearts!
There are many things about the doves that you may find surprising! White doves at weddings are specially trained birds, actually a unique type of homing pigeon. They have an inborn ability to find their way home if properly trained to use it. The scientific world is still unsure of exactly how they do it! This is the only reason white doves at weddings can be released - they find their way home, often awaiting their handler upon his return from the event!
White Doves Weddings - Seek A Professional!
Members of the WDRP spend countless hours in the handling, caring and training of their white doves. They are healthy, well fed and well trained. They have their own "houses" or coops with special one-way doors to let them in when they get home. They know there will be fresh food and water awaiting them and are fed only after the release, a way to control any chance of an “accident.”
A Qualified Handler is a Vital Part of Every Release!
A stunning white dove release doesn't happens on accident! Although our members may make it look easy, truth be told they study the fine art of performing white dove weddings. A trained (appropriately dressed) handler will bring the doves to your wedding site in beautifully decorated release baskets. They will set up the equipment in an area that is safe to perform the release. It is important the birds are not released into people, traffic, or wires and that they have a clear flight path to the sky. There is much to consider - a knowledgeable handler can also guide you and coordinate the release with your photographer/videographer so he or she can get the best possible pictures.
Knowing When...
Under certain weather conditions a release may have to be cancelled for the safety of the birds as white doves can not fly in heavy rain, fog, extreme wind or the dark. It affects their homing ability and puts them at risk of getting lost or hurt and we care too much for our birds to let that happen. A release must also take place with enough time for the birds to get home, which is generally 2 hours before sunset.
White doves at weddings are a very beautiful, special addition to your wedding day if done professionally. The “oohs and aahhs” of the guests says it all.
To find someone with high standards that can service your area see our list of White Dove Release Companies