A Guide to Sparkler Photos at Northern Ireland Wedding Venues by Northern Ireland Wedding Photographer Treasure Box Photography
As an Northern Ireland wedding photographer, I've seen my fair share of wedding sparkler exits. They're a beautiful way to end the evening before dancing takes over, and they can make for some truly stunning photos. But if you're not careful, they can also be a safety hazard.
That's why I've put together this guide on how to organise a wedding sparkler photo in Ireland and get awesome photos. Here are my top tips:
1. Ask Your Venue if they allow Sparklers
The first step is to check with your wedding venue if they allow sparkler exits. Some venues may have restrictions or safety concerns, so it's important to confirm the rules and regulations before making any plans. If the venue allows sparklers, find out the specific guidelines for their use, and make sure that your photographer is aware of them.
2. Make arrangements with your photographer
Communicate with your photographer well beforehand to make sure they know it's happening! I have had brides tell me they want sparkler photos as I'm packing up to go home, which allows very little time to prepare and advise. Please don't do this to your photographer! Your photographer will locate the best place to do it and coordinate with the venue to ensure it's safely carried out.
3. Purchase the correct sparklers
The longer the sparkler the better - 18" is an appropriate length. By the time everyone has theirs lit, some folks will be over halfway burned through. It's a good idea for everyone to have two sparklers each, so they can ignite another one if they need to. Here's a link to some sparklers that I'd recommend https://amzn.eu/d/gqNB464
4. Think about how to you're going to light them up
This is often the major stumbling block - not enough lighters! Another idea to quickly ignite sparkers is to purchase a gas torch head, the kind you see used when making creme brûlée and get someone responsible and sober to quickly light each sparkler up. Do not hold a dozen sparklers in at once or you'll all lose your eyebrows...or worse.
5. Limit the number of people
By the time it comes to do a sparkler shot many people will have had a few drinks. Hot metal things and boozed up guests are a risky combination so just grab the bridal party, friends and family - around 15 people will be all that's needed for the sparkler shot. I implore you to not go with the idea of having a sparker photo with all your guests. This is time consuming, complex and possibly dangerous.
6. Have fun!
The most important thing to remember is to have fun! The sparkler photo is the perfect moment to create a special memory. As you walk through the crowds holding your sparklers high and everybody cheers, take a moment to take it all in and remember this for the rest of your life.
A few more safety tips:
Keep sparklers away from flammable materials (eg. the bride's dress!)
Do not light sparklers near people's faces or hair.
Have a bucket of water or sand nearby in case of a fire.
Instruct guests to not point sparklers at each other or at the bride and groom (happens a lot)
Preparing for a sparkler photo may take some time, but it's an excellent opportunity to end your wedding in style and create a lasting memory. Follow these steps, check with your venue policies, and communicate with your photographer, and you'll have a beautiful moment and perfect photo to cherish forever.
All Photos in this blog are by Northern Ireland Wedding Photographer Treasure Box Photography
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