A balloon release is a popular memorial ceremony performed by people all over the world. Many see it as a symbol of love, hope and letting go. At Water & Sons, we understand that when someone dies it’s a natural instinct for us to find ways to stay connected, however this tradition has a significant harmful implication on the planet.

As your balloon soars into the sky it can be easy to forget the journey it’s about to embark on. These  balloons land in trees, wires and poles, meaning birds and wildlife can become tangled, and at worse even strangled. These undisposed balloons end up in oceans, along shores and across the countryside, wildlife can then confuse pieces of balloon for food and lead to internal injury. 

Balloons are a huge contributor to our plastic pollution problem. While they take moments to release, they take hundreds of years to biodegrade.

Alternatives to Balloon Releases

If you’re looking for balloon release alternatives to pay a special tribute to your lost one there are still plenty of ways that will provide that same feeling of letting go, without the damaging impact on the ecosystem.

1/ Wildflower Seed Bombs

Seed bombs are small balls crafted from a mixture of wildflower seeds, clay and compost. You can scatter them over flower beds, allotment patches or your garden. As they break down they scatter seeds in a more random arrangement to create a sea of stunning flowers for a beautiful memory and nod to your loved one. Your wildlife friends will love you too; enticing and providing food for butterflies, bees and other insects.

You can easily make your own wildflower seed bombs or purchase them from your local garden centre. Be sure to check permission before spreading if you wish to add to an existing wildflower meadow or memorable public place.

2/ Releasing Bubbles

If you’re looking to re-create the same balloon release impact, then consider swapping them out for bubbles. Blowing bubbles into the sky can look just as impactful and still provide the sense of letting go, but without the long-lasting harm.

You can create your own using eco-friendly soap or washing-up liquid, or you can purchase bubble wands and machines, just be sure to dispose of plastic properly afterwards.

We would recommend using different kinds of wands to create bubbles of different sizes to showcase a more lively display.

3/ Petals Down the Stream

Memorial releases are not just bound to the air; the sea, rivers and streams can be great places to gather and remember. However you must be so careful what you release into the water, that’s why we suggest scattering natural rose petals, or thoughtful messages on biodegradable paper.

Writing out memories or simple words can make their send off easier. This could be anything from saying the word ‘goodbye’ to ‘it’s been a pleasure knowing you’, or even using a humorous greeting that they were known for.

4/ Planting Trees or Flowers

If you want to create a long-lasting memory for your loved one then planting their favourite shrub, tree or flower in a remembrance spot in your garden, or memorable place, can be the perfect way. You can host a ceremony, or celebration of life around it. Taking turns to dig out a section of the ground can mean you all play a part.

Some like to bury something personal alongside the plant, like a necklace or ring, for a more significant, personal impact. Symbolic of lasting life, planting a memorial tree provides family and friends with a place to visit, and spend time. A place to feel close to their lost one.

People also find it comforting to scatter ashes during the plant, marking it as a memorial for life.

Whether this is your first loss, or you need some extra support, be sure to read our advice on scattering ashes for helpful information before your memorial.

We understand how important personal touches are, that’s why we give you full autonomy over every detail including the hearse and coffin. We also offer the option to turn ashes into keepsake jewellery with Ashes into Glass, so you have a memory to last forever.

For further information regarding how Waters & Sons can help pay fitting tribute to your loved one, please feel free to contact us at any time.