[Kornari]

Hello everyone

Now before anyone says anything, yes I know that using live animals as decor for a wedding can be very controversial. This is where my question comes in. I had the idea of using betta fish in bowls as part of my reception decor. Is it appropriate to include a note with my invitations to ask guests if they would like a betta fish as a favor (perhaps for a child)? That way I would only buy as many bettas as there are people who want them and they will have homes after the reception is over.

[Wedding Queen and MOG]

You may be surprised to know that we've actually had a similar question in the past!

Using live animals, like fish, can be tricky. There are issues you may not have considered like, what would you do if some of them died. Probably not the look you're going for - dead fish floating atop o fish bowl. On that same note, will guests want to eat (perhaps even be served fish) with fish swimming around in bowls on the table? Just some considerations.

Now, on to your question. Due to the fact that you really shouldn't be questioning your guests about what favor they want, and especially putting them in a position to say no since it could be embarrassing, I'd either have the dish there if you decide you like the idea, and allow guests to take them if they like. But then, as you probably have already thought, you may have lots of fish left and you'll need a home for them all.

maybe one of our wedding planners have an idea for using something else for a similar theme. Tell us a little more about your wedding theme.

[Kornari]

Well we just started planning and are just tossing around ideas for themes But I happened to see a beautiful centerpiece done with a beta bowl and thought it might be something we'd like.

And yes, I do understand the "dead fish" thing. My roommate and I owned a betta fish until just a few weeks ago when he unfortunately died and it is not a pretty thing. However if we did decide to go with the idea I think now that doing it sparingly might be my best bet. That way I will have only a few fish (maybe 3 or 4) to find homes for and hopefully they would be hardy enough to last the night. I know our fish went through several movings and illnesses in the time we had him.

Thanks for your advice.

[Wedding Queen and MOG]

Don't forget to only have one fish per bowl due to the fighting issue. Kinda bad karma for a wedding!

[Nancy Tucker]

I have only had one experience with live fish in a centerpiece. Some of the guys got drunk, turned frat house and ate the fish one by one. It was a bit disgusting..I personally would skip the live fish.

[Etiquette Now]

Oh my! Now I'll have that picture in my head all day. People can be very interesting sometimes.

I agree that it sounds like it would be lovely. But, as Nancy stated, people can be unpredictable and impulsive. The fish might not have a chance.