Final Fanfare: How to End Your Wedding With Flair

If you're in the middle of wedding planning, you're probably thinking of your grand entrance. The entrance sets the tone for the reception, so it's normal to think about having a memorable one. While you're thinking about it, consider planning your very own grand exit, too.

Not all couples do a grand exit, so some guests are left guessing when the party's over. A grand exit is the way to go to avoid this awkward air while also leaving a memorable impression.

Here are some creative ideas to end your wedding with flair.

 

1. Classic Sparklers

You can’t go wrong with the classic sparkler exit. Let guests form two lines on either side of the pathway. Give each guest a sparkler and light them. With some grand music, walk through the sparkling path and on the way to your happy ever after! This beautiful sight will be forever etched into your memory and look breathtaking in photos, too!

If you like things more grand, you can ditch the handheld sparklers and go for lines of cold sparks machines. These machines can give a larger, grander spray of lights and can be programmed to go off as you walk.

Most importantly, the sparks are cold to the touch and are generally safer for use than other pyrotechnic effects. Remember that you should only set off sparklers and cold sparks outdoors.

 

2. Smoke Bombs

You can inject color into your grand exit using handheld smoke bombs. Trendy and unique, smoke bombs add a burst of color to the end of your wedding. Give your guests smoke bombs and ask them to set them off simultaneously. Walk through the billows of colored smoke and create a memorable and picture-perfect exit!

Smoke bombs are for outdoor use only, so they’re best used if your wedding ends early and the sun is still out. Remember that the pigment can stain clothing and other items, so only choose this option if you’re willing to deal with a bit of mess.

 

3. Customized Flags

If you have a custom monogram for your wedding, you can incorporate it into your grand exit. Hand your guests small flags or pennants bearing your wedding monogram. As you exit, have them wave your flags and cheer you on to your new life!

If you don’t have a monogram for your wedding, you can use other design elements for your custom flags. You can commission custom artwork or print your names and fun quotes on the flags.

4. Fireworks Display

If you want a grand and dazzling end to your big day, you can splurge on fireworks. Gather your guests outside, say your final thank yous and cap off the night with a beautiful display in the sky.

You can also play music with the fireworks to create a visual and auditory experience that everyone will remember. Don’t forget to call your photographers for incredible shots with the fireworks in the background.

 

5. Surprise Performance From the Couple

If you have the time and willingness to go the extra mile on your wedding day, consider going for an all-out closing performance. A performance is perfect for couples that sing or dance (or both). Your performance will make your wedding end on a high note, giving your guests a unique and beautiful memory.

 

6. Hire Performers

If you’re not the performing type, you can hire professional dancers to liven up your grand exit. A great way to do this is to have them perform alongside you as you march out of the venue. Adding live musicians to your exit parade can take it to the next level.

 

7. The Getaway Car

Everyone knows that classic image of a wedding getaway car with flowers and a "just married" sign. You can make this tradition more meaningful by adding your touch to it.

If you or your spouse are car enthusiasts, you can spend time restoring a classic or vintage car before your wedding.  Whether you tinker with the engine or refurbish the entire exterior, working on it yourself can add so much more value to your getaway car. Just make sure you know what you’re doing before you start that kind of project.

No time or interest in restoring an older car? You can still be involved by decorating the exterior yourself. Add all the flowers, ribbons and other accessories to complete the look. You can hand paint your “just married” sign, too.

 

8. Eco-Friendly Send-Offs

Traditionally, guests would send off couples by throwing rice or other items like confetti. Some also do dove or butterfly releases. However, those traditions can harm the environment or make a mess at your venue. You can opt for similar send-offs for your wedding but with eco-friendly materials. These send-offs are perfect for garden or grassy outdoor venues:

• Fresh Petals: Hand your guests fresh flower petals to throw for your send-off.
• Dried Flowers: Dried flowers are another option and can be more eco-friendly since they are a way to recycle fresh flowers.
• Birdseed: For outdoor venues, throwing birdseed can leave a delightful surprise to local bird life.
• Dried Herbs: Dried lavender or jasmine flowers look beautiful and can give off a wonderful scent when tossed in the air.
• Dried Leaves: Perfect for autumn weddings, throwing dried leaves is thematic, beautiful, and very inexpensive.
• Rice Paper Confetti: Confetti made of rice paper is lightweight and water-soluble. If thrown on an open area, the pieces will eventually dissolve in the rain, eliminating the need for cleanup. Some companies offer rice confetti in butterfly shapes to mimic butterfly releases but without cruelty.

 

9. Bells and Tambourines

If you’re not into throwing petals into the air, you can emphasize sound for your exit instead. Hand your guests small bells or tambourines to shake as you exit the venue. You’ll create impact without making a mess. The send-off will be unique and lovely on video, too.

 

 

Have a Memorable Send-off

Whether you choose a classic send-off or a grand closing, your wedding exit can be just as beautiful as your entrance. Leave a lasting impression and create wonderful memories as you walk off to a life of wedded bliss.

 

Author Bio: Oscar Collins is the editor-in-chief at Modded, where he writes about a broad spectrum of topics. Follow him on Twitter @TModded for frequent updates on his work.

 

 

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