Nothing creates excitement quite like fireworks at your wedding. To be sure they go off with a bang, and without any issues, there are a few things you must know. Read on and get the low down on how to create a safe and sensational spectacle with large fireworks or 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 and many venues will not allow fireworks because of safety considerations. If you get the go-ahead, you’ll want to hire a company with enough experience that will include music in their display to make it even more thrilling and romantic. Then, all you have to do is be sure your planner, photographer, and MC know when the event will take place and how to help you make the most of it. Check the number of hours covered in your contract to ensure your photographer will be on hand to get stunning photos like the ones below.

Because the timing will depend on the season, plan on having your show 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 by 9 PM at the latest, 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 one place to share your surprise, and be sure all your vendors know to keep it on the down-low. 

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 because everyone is delighted 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, and consider doing a dip or giving a kiss for the camera. The photography you get from this moment may just be one of your favorite shots from your wedding day. 

We believe that all of the photos shown here are extraordinary examples of why you should consider fireworks at your wedding. This week our Editor's Award goes to Jeff Tisman Photography for his masterful capture of this blissful couple going out in a blaze of glory.

Want more tips for your wedding planning? Check out our blog posts with dozens of topics dedicated to making your big day fun and easy.