There are many parts of your wedding to think about while you plan your big day. Typically, brides are most concerned about their ceremony, cocktail hour and reception dinner, but there’s another key part of the night to consider. At the end of the festivities, it would be rude to sneak off through a backdoor when your guests want to say goodbye. That’s why many brides plan a send-off exit, where everyone can gather to cheer them on as they leave the venue.
There are many ways to do this, but sparklers are a popular way for guests to celebrate. They make for great nighttime photos, but they only work well if proper planning is done first.
Read on for a guide to using sparklers for your wedding send-off. Once you’ve read these tips, you’ll be prepared for a truly memorable exit from your wedding.
Designate a Sparkler Team Leader
When you finally get to slice your wedding cake and dance the night away, the last thing you’ll want to do is feel like you need to run everything. That’s why you should designate a sparkler team leader who can be in charge of your send-off.
They should know where the sparklers are kept and when to light them. They can pass them out and be a resource if guests have questions.
Get Your Guests Ready
Another part of your sparkler team leader’s job will be to get your guests ready when it’s time to send you and your spouse off. Everyone can line up outside the front doors to your venue or even on your dance floor if it’s near the exit. Whoever is in charge of your send-off should start spreading the word about 15 minutes before it’s time, so everyone is ready to hold up their sparklers and cheer when it’s time for you to leave.
Choose the Right Sparklers
A common misconception brides have is that all sparklers are the same. That’s just not true. They come in different sizes, which will make or break a good send-off. If you get sparklers that are too long, they’ll look awkward in your pictures and potentially be a hazard if they’re lowered too far while you walk past your guests. Instead, you should buy standard 20-inch sparklers. They’re easier to handle and will last for at least 120 seconds, which is more than enough time to pose for pictures and walk out to your getaway car.
Light the Sparklers Correctly
Whoever you decide to put in charge of the sparkers should know how to light them correctly. Matches will do the job, but the time it takes to light new ones every few seconds may cause some sparklers to diffuse before others.
The best way to light them is with an electric lighter. One push of a button, and there will be a guaranteed flame. There’s no need to worry about it going out or your finger getting too hot.
Have a Fire Extinguisher Ready
You don’t want anything going wrong on your wedding day, especially if flames will be involved in your send-off. Have a fire extinguisher ready in a location that you, your sparkler team leader and your wedding planner know about. Most venues will have one, so talk with your contacts about where it is and how to use it.
Set up Disposal Buckets
After you jump in your car and drive off into the night, your guests will need a place to throw their sparklers away. Before your wedding starts, set up disposal buckets that are filled with water and leave a sign for guests to put their used sparklers in them. After a half-hour, they should be completely soaked and it will be safe to dump them in a garbage bag.
Prep a First-Aid Kit
It’s always a good idea to have a first-aid kit at your wedding, but you’ll need one that’s ready for burns if you use sparklers for your send-off. Be sure to include bandages and burn ointment, as well as an over-the-counter pain reliever. Sparklers shouldn’t cause injuries if they’re used correctly, but it’s best to be prepared in case an accident happens.
Plan What You Can
Sparklers are used all the time for wedding send-offs, but they’re easier to use if you plan what you can ahead of time. Put someone in charge, prep a first-aid kit and be sure to order the correct size. You’ll end up with a memorable and romantic goodbye that will be the perfect way to end an incredible day.
