Pros & Cons of a Sparkler Send-Off (from a Photographer’s View)

Sparkler exits have become a wedding classic - and for good reason. The photos are dreamy, romantic, and give your day a big finale moment. But are they always the best choice?

Here’s my honest take as a wedding photographer on the pros and cons of sparkler exits - plus a few alternatives if you want something different.

The Pros of a Sparkler Send-Off

• The Photos (Obviously)
  Sparkler exits look incredible on camera. The light trails, the movement, the joy on everyone’s faces — it all comes together for magical images.

• Encourages Guests to Stay
  Knowing there’s a send-off at the end can motivate more guests to stick around through the reception, giving you a more energetic crowd when it’s time.
  

The Cons of a Sparkler Send-Off

• Extra Hours of Photography Coverage
  A true sparkler exit usually means your photographer needs to stay until the very end of the night. And while we’re all happy to do that, keep in mind: once we’ve photographed 30 minutes of open dance floor, we’ve pretty much captured the full reception vibe. You might be paying for 2+ extra hours just for one set of photos.

• Fire Safety
  Call me cautious, but handing dozens of people fire sticks at once will always make me a little nervous.

• The Cost
  Sparklers aren’t as cheap as you’d think - unless you snag a post-4th of July deal, they can add up fast.

• Small Guest Count Challenges
  If only a handful of people stay until the very end, you may not get the bright sparkler tunnel you envisioned. Less light = less dramatic photos.
  
  
  

Alternatives to Sparkler Exits

Not sure a sparkler send-off is the right fit? Here are a few creative options:

• Do an Earlier Sparkler Exit
  Stage a “fake exit” with your photographer earlier in the evening while energy (and guest count) is still high. You’ll get the photos without staying up until midnight.

• Bubbles After the Ceremony
  Bubble exits photograph beautifully in daylight and bring a sweet, whimsical vibe. Olivia & Spencer's wedding had one of my favorite bubble send-offs ever.

• LED Wands or Glow Sticks
  A fun, safe, and colorful alternative that keeps the dance floor energy alive without fire risks.

Final Thoughts

If sparkler exits make your heart happy, go for it! They’re gorgeous and fun. Just weigh the extra time, cost, and logistics against your priorities for the day. And if they don’t feel right? You’ve got plenty of other send-off options that photograph just as beautifully.