Magical Beginnings, a butterfly farm that operates out of downtown Los Gatos, has sold Monarch butterflies for release during special ceremonies the past seven years. Earlier this year, the owners of Magical Beginnings ventured into a new area by selling preserved rose petals.

Much like the butterflies, preserved rose petals are the latest alternative to throwing rice or releasing balloons at weddings, grand openings, movie premieres and other festive occasions. Unlike the butterflies that must be released in a warm climate, the rose petals can be used even at a winter event on the East Coast, notes Magical Beginnings co-owner Chris Hundley.

One box of petals is equivalent to four dozen roses, according to co-owner Michael Talesfore. Prices range from $29.95 to $49.95 per box, depending on the color of the petals.

Most churches and event halls today prohibit participants from throwing rice, blowing bubbles or releasing balloons because these items cause the floor to be slippery, stain carpets or get tangled up in telephone lines.

But with preserved rose petals, "the petals are freeze dried. No chemical, no stain," says Hundley.

The petals retain their natural look and scent for a couple weeks after the sealed package they come in is opened—an advantage over silk petals that look fake and lack fragrance and also over fresh petals that can be more expensive and wilt more quickly, Hundley and Talesfore say.

"The Ritz-Carlton turns down their beds with petals," Talesfore says.

The preserved petals have also been used in window displays at Nordstrom and some stores at Santana Row.

But the rose petals aren't used only for commercial purposes. Magical Beginnings customer Peter Norton ordered rose petals for his 25th annual Kentucky Derby party at his home. He accented his home with the petals scattered across tables and the piano.

"The petals looked like they were just plucked off a flower—very soft and fine. The fragrance was excellent," Norton recalls.

Norton was also thrilled when Hundley and Talesfore showed up at his doorstep and made recommendations about the decorations. "They know how to best enhance a room or space, " he says. "They are able to work and adapt to anybody's needs. They were very responsive."

Up next for Hundley and Talesfore is the possibility of selling the rose petals to Hollywood producers and owners of spa facilities. Their butterflies have already been used at a number of private parties thrown by celebrities.

Magical Beginnings is located at114 Royce St., Suite H, in Los Gatos. To place an order, call 1.888.639.9995 or visit http://www.rosepetalweddings.com or http://www.butterflyevents.com.