“Dove Release Information”
Written by Kristel Simmonds-Cobb Kristel Simmonds-Cobb Brooklyn, NY
It has been said that if doves are seen on your wedding day, a happy home is assured. Therefore as a spectacular addition to your wedding, you may wish to consider a white dove release.
Doves have traditionally symbolized love, fidelity, peace and prosperity; therefore they are the perfect symbol for the union of a bride and groom. However before you decide to arrange for a dove release, you should keep the following things in mind:
A dove release should only be performed by a professional release company. A reputable dove release company will raise, train and care for their birds properly. Do not use a company who offers to mail the doves to you for a self-release. Also, a knowledgeable and properly attired representative of the company should be present at your wedding to ensure a beautiful and safe release of the doves. The Association of White Dove Release Professionals has established a set of standards that reputable member companies adhere to.
A dove release company should only use white racing homing pigeons in their releases. The doves that are typically sold in pet stores (ring neck doves) should not be used for releases as they are ill equipped to deal with the hazards of the wild and predators. Homing pigeons are related to the dove species but they are larger and are specially bred and trained to fly long distances. However, it is generally recommended that a release be done within 50 miles of their loft.
A dove release should be done at least two hours prior to sunset. This is to give the birds the chance to return to their loft since they will lose their navigational ability after the sun sets.
A dove release should not be done during inclement weather.
A dove release should only be done outdoors. If your wedding ceremony is held in a house of worship, a release can be done on the steps of the site at the conclusion of the ceremony.
To minimize the chance of an �accident� during a release, the doves should be on a special feeding program. During your interview with the release company you can ask for further details.
When properly done, a white dove release can add a special touch to your wedding; making it one that you and your guests will never forget.