Nothing creates excitement quite like a sparkler exit or fireworks at your wedding. To be sure your displays go off with a bang, and without any issues, there are a few things you must know. Read on and get the lowdown on how to create a safe and sensational spectacle with fireworks or hand-held sparklers.

Fireworks Displays

Before you plan for and book a big display of fireworks at your wedding, be sure that your venue will permit it. To put on a show, plenty of outside space is needed for safety and that is why many venues do not allow them. If you get the go-ahead, you’ll want to hire a company with a lot of experience who includes music in their displays to make them even more thrilling and romantic. Then, you'll want to work with your planner, photographer and MC to coordinate the time and place, and get their support in making the most of your moment. Check the number of hours covered in your contract to ensure your photographer will be on hand to get stunning photos like the award-winning shots below. 

Because the timing will depend on the season, plan on having your display around 30 minutes after sundown and remember that during the longest days of the year this can be very late at night. The last thing you want is to schedule your display after most of your guests have left, so fireworks work best when they are scheduled around between 60 and 90 minutes after sunset, especially if there will be a lot of kids at your wedding. 

If you want to keep your fireworks show a secret, have your DJ call everyone to outside to share your surprise, and be sure all your vendors know to keep it on the down-low until the the big event explodes. 

When it comes to budgeting, you can expect to pay $3K and up for fireworks at your wedding. So take some time reviewing proposals unless the sky is your limit. And if you want a smaller but noteworthy display, consider using fireworks during your cake cutting or first dance and you'll have a blast at your celebration.

Sparkler Exits 

Many venues are more lenient about sparklers than they are about fireworks, and these dazzling send-offs make for a memorable exit.They do take a bit of coordination and common sense safety, including keeping them away from little kids and being sure there is no dry brush or grass that could be ignited. We suggest you don’t keep it a secret until the last minute because you’ll want everyone prepared and ready to send you off with a bang. 

We think the most wonderful thing about sparkler exits is that they photograph exceptionally well. Everyone is delighted by the show and their excitement shines through in the pictures.

To set up your exit, have your guests line up in two rows parallel to each other, (usually between 10 and 12 feet apart). In order for everyone to get all the sparklers lit in time for your exit, you’ll need to have several long lighters on hand and be sure there is one for every four guests. Matches put hands at risk so have your MC encourage lighters only. 

While standard sparklers are 12 inches long, sparklers can be purchased at 24 inches which burn for 2 minutes, and 26 inches which burn for 3. The 24-inch size is most popular for weddings because they last long enough without being unwieldy.

When the moment comes, remember to smile, kiss and ham it up for the camera. The photographs you get from having fireworks at your wedding may be some of your favorite shots from your day. 

P.S. Having insurance through a provider like Wed Safe or your venue can give you piece of mind and may be required. 

Want more tips for your wedding planning? Check out our blog posts with dozens of topics dedicated to making your wedding day fun and easy. And when you need a photographer who is skilled enough to take epic shots without missing a moment, discover our directory. Without a doubt the most highly curated list of wedding photographers available online in every style.