Exit Strategy: Planning Your Wedding Send-Off

When planning a wedding, couples often focus on the ceremony and reception, but the send-off can be just as memorable. Here, we explore the history of the wedding send-off and options that may provide the proverbial cherry-on-top of your wedding experience. 

A Brief History of the Send-Off

Throughout history, wedding send-offs have been a cherished tradition in many cultures. Rice was thrown at newlyweds as a symbol of fertility and prosperity in ancient times. It was popular in Europe for guests to toss grains or herbs to ward off evil spirits. This was also seen as a way to bring good luck to the couple. In more recent times, the tradition evolved to include confetti, flower petals, and even birdseed. Today, couples have stepped outside of the traditional wedding send-off. They are getting more and more creative with their matrimonial exit strategy! Overall, the wedding send-off allows guests to bid one final “Congratulations” to the couple.

Choosing a Send-Off

A wedding send-off should reflect the couple’s personality and style while creating lasting memories. It symbolizes the end of festivities and the start of the couple’s new life. The goals of a wedding send off are to celebrate the couple’s union, bid farewell to guests, and create a magical moment captured in photos. It’s done to add an extra touch of magic and excitement to the wedding day, and leave guests with a lasting impression. Overall, couples should want a send off that is fun, unique, and reflective of their love story.

A Few Unique Ideas

Confetti or Streamer Canons: These can create a dramatic and festive atmosphere as guests shower the newlyweds with colorful confetti or streamers. To make this idea a bit more environmentally friendly, biodegradable confetti can be used.

Bubbles: Bubbles add a whimsical and romantic touch to the send off, creating beautiful photo opportunities. Couples can choose to have custom individual containers of bubbles for guests to blow upon their exit. Another option is to use bubble machines to add whimsy.

Second Line Parade: Perfect for couples who love a Gulf Coast flare, a second line parade involves a brass band leading guests in a lively procession. This can also be modified to any cultural music that fits the couple’s unique style!

Sparklers or Smoke Bombs: Sparklers add a touch of sparkle and romance, while smoke bombs can create a dramatic and visually stunning effect.

*Protip: Make sure that you plan this option with your venue and wedding planner so that the proper materials are used. Traditional “firework stand” options are not recommended for these types of events.

Custom Pennant Flags: Personalized flags with the couple’s initials or wedding date add a unique and stylish touch to the send off. 

Traditional Birdseed: A classic option is birdseed. This symbolizes fertility and abundance, is eco-friendly and creates a lovely send off moment.

Sword Salute: Ideal for military couples or those with a love for history, a sword salute involves guests forming an arch with swords or sabers for the couple to walk through.

Rose Petals: Rose petals create a romantic and elegant send off, adding a touch of natural beauty to the occasion.

Dried Flowers or Leaves: Eco-friendly and rustic, dried flowers or leaves make for a charming and environmentally conscious send off.

Lanterns: Lanterns, released into the night sky, symbolize the couple’s hopes and dreams for their future together. Keep the weather and proximity to trees and power lines in mind when opting for this send-off. 

Popping Champagne: A celebratory option, popping champagne bottles can add an element of luxury and excitement to the send off.

Fireworks or Cold Sparkler Machines: For a truly unforgettable send off, fireworks are enjoyable for both the couple and their guests. For a less expensive alternative, couples can opt for cold sparkler machines. Cold sparkler machines shoot out bright sparks that resemble mini fireworks.

The wedding send-off holds historical significance and cultural tradition. From ancient rituals to modern-day innovations, it’s a cherished moment symbolizing well wishes and celebration. Couples should select a send-off that aligns with their personalities and creates lasting memories for themselves and their guests.

With a plethora of unique ideas available, couples can tailor their send-off to reflect their love story. Whether it’s a festive confetti canon, whimsical bubbles, or a spirited second line parade, each option adds its own touch of magic to the occasion.

From sparklers to rose petals, each send-off idea offers its own charm and elegance. It’s important to consider logistical factors such as venue regulations and environmental impact when planning. Ultimately, the wedding send-off serves as the perfect finale to a couple’s special day, leaving guests with lasting impressions and fond memories to cherish.