Who doesn’t love a good sparkler? No matter how many times we see them or use them, there’s just something about playing with fire/sparks that is so much fun. This blog’s focus is toward those frequently asked questions about sparklers. So without further ado…

1. Does Shadowland allow sparkler send-offs?

Yes! We do allow sparkler send-offs. Due to city ordinances, lighting lanterns and sending them off into the skies is no longer allowed in St Joe city limits, but sparklers are allowed.

2. How do sparkler send-offs generally work at Shadowland?

Let’s go through the ideal situation! For arguments sake, let’s say the bar closes at 11 and the end of the night is at 11:30. Sparklers would be at 11:15. Your DJ would make an announcement for guests to exit the ballroom toward the sunset patio. Shadowland staff assists in handing out sparklers and we have to be the drink police…alcoholic drinks are not allowed past our patio (city rules again) and that is where guests need to line up for a proper send off. Staff works with your photographer to form two lines, about 10 feet apart from each other. Once the guests are in place, your photographer is ready to go and you newlyweds are set, Shadowland staff will help light sparklers. Then off you go! Take it slow, dip and kiss in the middle, and get some fabulous shots! If you choose, you can have someone pull your car around if you really are going to leave right after the send-off. When the sparklers go out, Shadowland also has a large bucket/trash can full of water ready nearby for used ones. By this time, it’s either 11:30 or a bit after and it lends nicely to starting the clean-up process.

3. How do my guests know there is a send-off?

Communication is key! Make sure your DJ is on board and knows what’s happening. When I go over the timeline with them, I do go over the above process with them so they can make the correct announcements. It also helps if you have a few signs around the venue so your guests see them throughout the night. Cocktail tables and the bathrooms are great places to put something like that.

 4. How many sparklers to buy?

As much as we don’t want to think about it, not every single guest will stay for the whole time. It’s probably a safe bet to allocate one per person for 75% of your guest count. So if you have 150 total guests, 75% of that is around 115 sparklers. If you take an honest look at your guest count and think that’s too few or too many feel free to adjust. These are just guidelines.

5. How big of sparklers to buy?

From our experience, we have found the 3-minute sparklers work best. It gives us time to light them and gives you time to walk down the middle and not feel rushed.

Another tip if you want even more unique photos, when you sneak off with your photographer after dinner for sunset pictures, take a couple bridal party members too and have some fun with the smaller sparklers.
Sparklers really do make for some amazing photos but like any part of the big day, they do require some planning and forethought. Ask Shadowland any questions you have and keep in mind the more communication there is, the more successful the day will be!

Photos: Ben Pancoast Photography and Summer Jean Photography