How to Execute The Perfect Sparkler Send Off in ORange COunty
How to Execute The Perfect Sparkler Send Off in ORange County
So you've decided to end your wedding reception with an epic sparkler send off. You only get one shot at this, so we've put together this step-by-step guide to help you create the perfect send off. As Orange County wedding photographers and videographers who have captured dozens of sparkler exits and other types of exists, we can assure you a little planning goes a long way.
Choosing the Right Sparklers for Your Send Off
When you're shopping for wedding sparklers, you may think any old sparklers will do. Unfortunately, that's not the case. There is a lot of variety, and choosing the right ones can make or break your send off. Fortunately, by following a few easy guidelines you can easily choose the perfect sparklers for your wedding.
Opt for Smokeless Wedding Sparklers: A little bit of smoke may not matter at your Fourth of July cookout, but at your wedding, smoke can ruin your grand exit. Because of this, it is key to purchase smokeless sparklers. They ensure your sparkler send off photos are clear while also creating a more pleasant environment for guests.
Choose the Correct Size: It is also crucial to purchase appropriately sized sparklers to ensure they will last through the entire send off. For weddings with less than 150 guests, you should select sparklers that are at least 20 inches. For weddings with more than 150 guests, you should select sparklers that are at least 36 inches. We also suggest avoiding 10-inch sparklers. They are cheaper, but they simply won’t stay lit for your whole sparkler send off.
Purchase Long-Lasting Sparklers: Aside from selecting the appropriate size of sparklers, we also suggest researching brands that offer long-lasting sparklers. Sparklers vary in quality, with some burning more rapidly than others. By purchasing from a trusted brand, you can rest assured that your sparklers will burn brightly throughout every moment of your sparkler send off.
Selecting the Best Lighters for Sparkler Send Offs
When coordinating a sparkler send off, one key element which often gets overlooked, is lighters. You'd be surprised how many couples end up scrambling to figure out a game plan minutes before their grand exit. It’s worth putting some advance thought into the best lighters for your sparkler send off.
We recommend you stay away from matches. They require two hands to light, are very inconsistent, and can become extinguished very quickly. Sparklers take a second or two to light, and with matches, that time will be extended. While traditional lighters are a step up from matches, they can still be inconsistent. The best way to light sparklers for your send off is to use a butane or propane lighter. Regardless of what you choose, aim to purchase one lighter per six guests.
The best way to light sparklers for your send off is to use the lighter to light the first sparkler in a group, then use that lit sparkler to light the rest in that group. Sparklers burn at a much higher consistent temperature and will light the additional sparklers faster than a lighter would.
Setting Up a Sparkler Display Table
Once you’ve purchased your sparklers and lighters, it’s time to move on to our favorite part of coordinating a sparkler send off—the display! There are three key elements that should be included in every sparkler display:
Something to place the sparkler on—it can be a table, a metal cart, a colorful bookshelf, or a vintage dresser.
Something to hold the sparklers—you have so many fun options. For a rustic wedding, repurpose a wooden crate. For something more personal, splurge for a custom sparkler send off bucket.
Details about when and where the send off will take place—a sign or a chalkboard are just a few easy ways to let guests know the plan!
Hiring a Photographer and Cinematographer
A well-executed wedding sparkler send off is guaranteed to be one of the most memorable moments of your wedding day. You will want to have this moment captured so that you can look back on it for many years to come. Unfortunately, wedding sparkler send offs are difficult to photograph, which is why it is essential to hire an experienced wedding photographer and cinematographer that know how to capture them. Our team specializes in capturing these magical moments for couples getting married in both Los Angeles and Orange County.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a sparkler send off last? A typical sparkler send off for a wedding of about 100 guests lasts between 5-7 minutes. This is why having the right size sparklers is so important.
Do you need a wedding planner for a sparkler send off? Having a planner or a day-of coordinator can be very helpful for organizing the send off and making sure it runs on time. They can help line up guests and distribute the sparklers.
Is it safe to have a sparkler send off? Yes, a sparkler send off can be safe when you follow the right precautions. Be sure to buy the correct type of sparklers, have a plan for lighting them, and have a bucket of water or sand at the end of the line for safe disposal.
When you choose a professional team, you can trust that every detail of your sparkler send off will be beautifully preserved. If you're looking for a team that can handle both the photography and videography for your wedding, you can learn more about our combined photo and video packages here.
Sparkler Send-Off Policies at Top Orange County Venues
When planning your grand exit, it's important to know your venue's rules. Many locations have specific policies about sparklers for fire and safety reasons. Knowing this information beforehand will help you plan an unforgettable farewell without any surprises.
Here is a guide to some of the most popular wedding venues in Orange County and their sparkler policies.
Venues Where Sparkler Exits are Allowed
Rancho Las Lomas: This venue is one of the most popular locations for sparkler send-offs. The property's open spaces are ideal for this kind of event.
Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort: This venue generally allows sparkler exits, as its large outdoor spaces can accommodate them safely.
The Villa, Orange: This location typically allows sparkler send-offs. Its layout works well for a grand exit.
The Colony House: As a more modern and open venue, The Colony House generally permits sparkler exits on its property.
Ebell of Santa Ana: This venue often allows sparkler send-offs, which can be a beautiful way to end the night in its historic courtyard.
The Muckenthaler Cultural Center: This property has a large open lawn area that is often used for sparkler exits.
Calamigos Ranch: This rustic, outdoor venue in Malibu, while not technically in OC, is a popular choice for sparkler send-offs due to its open spaces and rustic feel.
Ole Hanson Beach Club: This oceanfront venue in San Clemente allows sparkler exits on its property.
Balboa Bay Resort: This venue allows sparkler exits on its grounds, but not on the docks.
The Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa: This venue is a popular choice for sparkler exits due to its open lawn and ocean views.
Venues Where Sparkler Exits are Not Allowed
The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel: Due to fire and safety regulations, this venue does not permit sparkler exits.
Casa Romantica: This venue does not allow sparklers.
Mission San Juan Capistrano: This historic landmark does not permit sparklers or other fire-related exits on its grounds.
Santiago Oaks Regional Park: Sparkler use is not allowed at this park venue.
Pelican Hill Resort: Due to strict safety protocols, this venue does not permit sparkler exits.
Hotel Laguna: This venue does not allow sparkler exits because of its proximity to the ocean and residential areas.
Serra Plaza: This venue does not allow sparklers inside or outside of the venue.
Monarch Beach Resort: This venue does not permit sparkler exits due to fire and safety regulations.
The Heritage Museum of Orange County: This museum does not permit sparkler use on its grounds.
The Center Club: As a downtown venue, The Center Club does not permit sparkler exits.
Do not worry if your venue does not allow sparklers. There are many beautiful and creative alternatives, such as a confetti exit, bubbles, or glow sticks, that still make for amazing photos.