Are you planning to add a send-off to your winter wedding? Or are you just wondering what in the world is a send-off? A send-off means your grand exit. Believe it or not, send-offs or grand exits are historical and hold roots throughout the centuries. In Roman times, guests would throw grain or rice as the couple left to symbolize fertility. As a Royal Tradition, leaving in style is a must in England. Prince William and Princess Kate drove off in a gorgeous Ashton Martin departing from Buckingham Palace.
The grand exit is a symbol that represents the couple’s transition into married life and the new life they will build together. It is a time to celebrate the couple's excitement and send them off with memories. These are the perfect ideas to end the night and the photos will be magical. It’s also a great way to signal to your guests that the wedding reception is over, without having to kick anyone out. Winter gives us some additional send-off ideas that utilize the chilly air and magical white, wintery landscape. So, let’s get into the best winter wedding send-off ideas!
Streamers or Tinsel
Deck the halls.. With tinsel streamers! This is a fun, yet safe way to send the happy couple off to their honeymoon or night on the town. The best part is they are affordable, can be an easy DIY project for you and your wedding party, and leave little to no mess. Streamers or tinsel also are the perfect sparkle in your photographer’s camera! We love how they are captured in wedding photos. This is also a safe place to find the tackiest, shinest, streamers in all the land. They also require little setup and are perfect for kids and adults.
Sparklers
Sparklers are a classic. I can’t tell you how many send offs we’ve done with sparklers. And the best part is they look absolutely magical in the winter months! The good news is during the summer our team and I are on the lookout while the sparklers are in guests hands. We have a bucket on hand filled with water and are prepared for anything that could resemble a fire. But in the wintertime, due to the cold weather and snow, fire is less of a concern, but you should still keep an eye out on the twinkling lights. If you do choose sparklers for your grand exit, opt for the longer sparklers – like the 22 inches. The 12 inch can get a little scary, and depending on your number of guests in attendance, it may take a long time to light. There is also a difference in quality between the sparklers you get from the fireworks store and wedding sparklers. And, if you have a large attendance of guests, we’d skip the sparklers or talk to your photographer about a faux exit, because chances are the sparkler will not stay lit by the time everyone has lit their sparkler!
Glow Wands
Okay, so maybe you’ve been to Disney on Ice and seen or purchased glow wands for your littles. Glow wands are a perfect addition to your winter send off. The LED is perfect, because it’s less prep work and will show up beautifully in your photos. You’ll want to make sure that it is truly dark outside for the effect to fully take place, but these are a great, non-mess, kid friendly option that will create a beautiful, yet fun send off!
Bubbles
Bubbles are not overrated. Did you know that bubbles actually capture light and photograph beautifully? If caught with the right exposure, bubbles can actually mimic snow! Bubbles are an affordable option and fun for all ages during a send off. They are mess free, float beautifully and can photograph well. This is the perfect option for a whimsical bride and groom who want little hassle when it comes to a send off. Just grab some bubbles and get blowing!
Cold Sparkler Machines
This is a modern way to send off - and you’re probably wondering what cold sparkler machines are. They give the same effect as the allure of a firework, but unlike fireworks, you won’t need a permit or license. You can rent these machines or purchase your own (although we recommend renting for a more budget friendly option.) They create sparkler sparks, and are perfect for lining your grand exit. The photographs are truly STUNNING and can be set up prior to your grand exit for planning purposes.
Getaway Car
There is nothing quite as timeless as exiting your reception and entering your getaway car. If you’re looking for an affordable way to exit that is quick, leaving your wedding venue by car is a great opportunity to thank and say goodbye to your loved ones. In turn, they get to cheer you on as you embark on your new married adventure. Your family and friends can also decorate your cans and don’t worry there are many modern options that don’t involve cans dangling from the bumper.
We love a good send off and we recommend that you take a moment to think about how you want to be sent off on your newlywed journey. Whether you want to dazzle down the aisle with sparklers or streamers of tinsel or opt for the timeless getaway car, take the time to research and plan what works for you and your partner. Be sure to consult your venue to ensure your send-off plan is approved and doesn’t break any rules or regulations. If you are planning to use sparklers, be prepared with plenty of lighters and a safety plan, including somewhere to put the sparklers out. Don’t forget to talk with your photographer and you can even incorporate a faux exit with you wedding party and immediate family to ensure those photos are secured. But, don’t forget to have fun with it – this is the send-off that celebrates you and your spouse on your new journey!
Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Tacoma Wedding Planner with over 19 years of experience. We create awe-inspiring experiences—Events filled with meaning and refined elegance. Behind the scenes, our experienced team collaborates on each stage of the process, executing your vision and a wedding, celebration, or corporate event that is unique to you.