Odds are, when you think of ideas for a wedding send off, you think of tossing bird seed or rice. Wedding exits have evolved quite a bit and while bird seed is still an option, throwing rice after a wedding is frowned upon these days. But, that doesn’t mean that you can’t get creative with how you exit your big day. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite wedding send off ideas to help you choose one that fits your style and wedding.
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What is a Wedding Send Off?
A wedding send off is a formal way for wedding guests to bid farewell to the newly married couple. It also lets your wedding guests know that the wedding festivities have concluded and it is time to go home. Wedding exits make wonderful photo opportunities as they capture friends and family celebrating the newlyweds. Your exit can make for a great candid photograph!
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How to Have a Seamless Wedding Exit
- Understand the Venue Rules
Talk with your wedding venue about wedding send-off rules. Some wedding venues are strict about what they allow for wedding exits. For example, your venue may not allow sparklers depending on the time of year and weather conditions.
- Make it Relevant
Choose a wedding send-off that goes with the overall aesthetic of your wedding. Think of your exit as the final wedding memory that wraps up the vibe you’ve created from the ceremony through the reception.
- Consult Your Photographer
It is important that your wedding photographer know what your plans are for your wedding exit. It’s likely they’ve seen the full gambit of send-offs and can offer some advice. You also want to make sure that your photographer is prepared to capture the moment!
- Designate Helpers
Appoint one or two wedding guests to help coordinate the logistics of the send-off. Think of every worst-case scenario and plan ahead. For example, have extra lighters and matches if you plan a sparkler exit.
- Communicate the Plan
Prepare adequate signage that tells your wedding guests what they are supposed to do.
- Go with the Flow
Be prepared that your exit may not go exactly as you planned. Try to enjoy the moment, even if there is a hiccup or two. Your guests probably won’t even notice.
Wedding Send Off Ideas
Let Sparks Fly
Nothing says grand wedding exit like a sparkler exit! Be sure to let your wedding photographer know ahead of time that you plan on having a sparkler exit so they can properly capture this magical moment.
For the DIY couple, learn how to make sparkler tags for your wedding send off in our tutorial.
Throw Paper Airplanes
Guests can throw paper airplanes, symbolizing the couple's journey together.
Add Fairy Lights to Ribbon Wands
The fairy lights add a special touch to these ribbon wands. Perfect for an evening exit!
Personalized LED Foam Sticks
Distribute these glowing foam sticks for a colorful and radiant exit for an evening wedding.
Hand Rolled Streamers
How fun are these hand-rolled streamers? They make for a great photo opportunity!
Biodegradable Wedding Confetti Kit
These biodegradable confetti kits are a responsible way to toss confetti for your wedding send off.
Wave Ribbon Wands
Add a touch of elegance to your wedding exit by having your guests wave ribbon wands as you leave the reception with your new spouse. Choose ribbon colors to match your wedding theme.
Musical Instruments
Distribute small musical instruments like tambourines, maracas, or kazoos to guests, and have them play music as you make your exit. This lively and musical send-off will add a festive atmosphere to your departure.
Blow Bubbles
Guests can blow bubbles as the couple walks by, creating a whimsical atmosphere. Don't forget a sign like the one pictured to let guests know what to do!
Beach Ball Toss
If you're having a beach wedding, beach balls make a fun and fitting send-off.
Vintage Cars
Leave the venue in a vintage car, creating a classic and romantic departure.
Wedding Confetti Poppers
Leave your wedding in style with this confetti popper, making your exit a moment of pure joy and enchantment that you and your guests will cherish forever.
Toss Birdseed
Birdseed is a traditional and eco-friendly option for a rustic wedding send-off.
Miniature Bells
Have guests ring small bells for a melodious send-off.
Wave Tiny Hand Flags
Hand out small flags with the couple's names and wedding date.
Lavender Toss
Lavender buds create a fragrant and picturesque send-off.