Sparklers are so 2015. Bid farewell to your nearest and dearest with one of these more memorable sendoffs instead.
Best during the day time:
Bubbles
Pass out tiny tubes for guests to use; for extra oomph, set up an automatic bubble machine nearby. The iridescent spheres will add some glimmer to your getaway.
Pompoms and Foam Fingers
Lend some team spirit to your goodbyes with foam fingers from your fave sports shop and pompoms in coordinating colors. Pro tip: This is especially fun if the the newlyweds attended rival colleges.
Flower Petals
Ask your florist to create a petal bar where guests can fill paper bags with blossoms to toss over your heads on your way out. Choose petals in your wedding colors to tie your departure into your theme.
Seasonal Touches
What flower petals are to spring weddings, fake snow and fall leaves are to winter and autumn celebrations. Offer your guests baskets of your chosen material, then get ready to run through seasonal weather elements of your own making.
Push-Pop Confetti
Whether you’re celebrating your nuptials on New Year’s Eve or just want to add a celebratory air to your exit, arm each guest with a push-pop to shower you with glittering confetti on your way out the door.
Best at night:
Glowing Balloons
Open flames are a no-no, but you still want a brightened dash to the getaway car. Our solution: insert tiny LED balloon lights into balloons before inflating with helium, then pass out to guests as they line the walkway.
Fireworks
To end with an actual bang, select a venue that will allow you to salute family and friends with fireworks. Maryland’s
Herrington on the Bay, a less urban spot about an hour from DC, will set you up with a pyrotechnic display to remember.
Glow sticks
Not only do they bring a party atmosphere to any moment, glow sticks are another non-flame alternative that will add an amazing array of colors to your exit photos.
Caroline Cunningham joined Washingtonian in 2014 after moving to the DC area from Cincinnati, where she interned and freelanced for Cincinnati Magazine and worked in content marketing. She currently resides in College Park.
