These days, a Sparkler Exit is all the rage. If you’re considering this for your wedding, there are a few things to think about:
1. Choose the “right” kind of sparkler.
There are two main styles of sparklers that people consider for “wedding sparklers” – but only one is ideal. You’ll want to choose a long-burning sparkler that doesn’t emit a lot of smoke, but has a lot of sparkle.
Don’t choose the sparklers covered in colorful paper – that paper will burn, emitting a smoke (oops – this is what I chose for our own sparkler exit – smoke city!!) that will overwhelm the sparkle, making for photos that are only so-so.
Instead, choose the traditional sparklers (pictured below). They come in the traditional stick, or you can even find shapes, like hearts.
2. Timing is everything.
Most sparkler exits are done just after dusk, not in that complete pitch-blackness of night time. On the west coast, the ideal time in the summer for such an exit is anywhere from 9:15-9:45 pm.
If you’re unsure, ask your photographer for recommendations. Most have a time frame in which they feel comfortable shooting this to get the best results – and after all, that’s what it’s all about!
3. Let there be light!
Have a lot of matches on hand. Make sure every other guest has a book of matches. Have your coordinator, best man and/or maid of honor be in charge of this – and handing out the sparklers. Have enough on hand to have 2-3 sparklers per guest.
4. The Photographers.
Of course, let your photographers know as soon as possible that you’ll be doing a sparkler exit – and make sure that they’re confident in their ability to do one. Not every photographer can capture this unique element to your day, as it poses its own difficulties photographically.
Make sure to order extra sparklers, and get some to your photographers a few days (at least!!) before the wedding, so that they can practice and be aware of the burn time.
On the day of the wedding, let your photographers instruct your guests. No one should light the sparklers until the photographers tell them they’re ready – and the photographers should have some safety tips to review with your guests too (like holding them up instead of straight out, burning brides/grooms does not make for a fun exit!).
You’ll likely walk a few steps, stop, walk a few steps, stop. This isn’t as much of a “movement” shot as it is posed. The key is to have you within the line of sparklers, so that the light from them is all over you. Most of all, enjoy it! You’re about to head off for your wedding night!
