The butterflies are ordered from a company that is registered with the International Butterfly Breeder's Association (IBBA). They breed and sell butterflies which are native to the release area. They ship the butterflies out overnight delivery to be received the day prior to the event. Each butterfly is packaged in a triangular shaped box. They are packed in a styrofoam box with a cold pack to keep them cool, thus sleepy. :) You unpack them and keep them in a cool place overnight (cellar or fridge). About an hour prior to the event you put them at room temperature.Quote:
Originally Posted by jrebel7
Butterfly releases can be done for weddings, funerals, cancer events and memorials, etc. The concept is that according to an old Native legend, butterflies cannot talk, so you whisper your prayers and good wishes to them, then release them to carry them up to the Great Spirit.
Sometimes they are released directly from a butterfly cage, but they are not fancy at all, certainly not suitable for a wedding. I wanted to create a fairly stable, natural environment for them, yet pretty at the same time. I used a wooden base, covered with a silk material, then a nylon sheer with daisies on it. I attached a grapevine wreath on the bottom, and joined it to another on top with small bamboo plant stakes. On the day of the event, flowers from the bouquet were places inside, and some orange Gatorade which the butterflies love (only orange, though). Later that night the butterflies hid up in the spaces of the top grapevine wreath, or between the material and the wreaths to sleep.
The most common butterfly to be used here in Canada and in the eastern States are the Monarchs and Painted Ladies. In California they can use different ones. It is truly a glorious event. I really do think you would love to see one.
Hugs, Didi
