Happy 4th of July!
Okay so it's still only the 3rd, but we thought we'd get the celebrations started early, with a little Independence Day inspiration – that works all year 'round.
Nothing screams 4th of July more than fireworks and sparklers.
And who doesn't love them? Not only are they pretty and fun, but they add such a sense of occasion to a party – and look pretty awesome in the pictures too!
Photo by Mango Studios via Ruffled
Of course a full firework display can be pricey, but if you have room in your budget, it's an epic way to finish out your wedding day, with a bang – literally.
And for the rest of us, a sparkler send-off is an equally special way to light up the night, as you leave the party.
Of course there are a few things to remember…
The Sparkler Send-Off
If you're planning a sparkler send-off, be sure to let your photographer, and your guests know in advance. Sometimes you just have to organise the fun!
Sparkler cards, with a couple of sparklers in them, make great favours, as well as letting the party know what time to light them up.
If you don't have a lot of smokers among your guest list, be sure to provide matches or lighters to avoid a staggered sparkle!
Look for extra long sparklers for your send-off, so that they last long enough for some perfect snaps (and don't singe your hair!)
Photo by Tessa J Photography via 100 Layer Cake
Added Sparkle
Sparklers don't have to be kept until the send-off, you can feature them in your getting ready shots, as part of your ceremony, in your portraits, or even on your cake.
If your heart is set on one of those dreamy long exposure sparkle shots, be sure to tell your photographer in advance, as they may need an assistant, or special equipment to set up the shot.
If you're planning to feature sparklers at your wedding, why not introduce them with your engagement photos or save the date, so your guests know to expect a little sparkle.
Finally, if you have splashed out on fireworks, be sure to check that they are weatherproof, that all safety measures have been taken, and make sure you're synced up on what time they'll go off… You don't want the sky to light up, while you're still enjoying your post-dinner coffee!
And now some pictorial inspiration to inspire a little sparkle for your wedding day…
Effervescent Engagement
Photo by Jennie Andrews Photography via Inspired by This
Adorable Americana
Photo by CJK Visuals via Style Me Pretty
Photo Op
Photo by Scott Lawrence via Style Me Pretty
Let Love Shine
Photo by Janet Howard Studio via Style Me Pretty
All My Heart
Photo by Paper Heart Photography via The Wedding Chicks
Ceremonial Sparkle
Photo by Elizabeth Messina Photography via Brides
Cherry on Top
Photo by Mustard Seed Photography via Ruffled
Fancy Flares
Photo by Chris Spira Photography via Belle & Chic
What a Sparkler?
Photo by Bianca Wilde Photography via Envy The Bride
Circle of Sparkle
Photo by Rad + In Love via Style Me Pretty
Kiss the Bride
Photo by Jose Villa Photography
Magical Night
Photo by Amy Arrington Photography via The Wedding Chicks
Solo Sparkler
Photo by Endearing Studios via Floridian Weddings
Light Up the Night
Photo by Jillian Mitchell Photography via Style Me Pretty
Epic Romance
Photo by Jess Barfield Photography via Style Me Pretty
Sweet Send-off
Photo by Amy Caroline Photography via Style Me Pretty
Lovely Lights
Photo by Alixanne Loosle Photography via Inspired by This
Picture Perfect
Photo by Haley Sheffield via Southern Weddings
The Big Finish
Photo via Brides
The View from Above
Photo by Jen Fariello Photography via Style Me Pretty
Dream Come True
Photo by Rebecca Arthurs Photography via Style Me Pretty
Oh photos like these just make me feel so warm and glowy!
Do let us know your 4th of July plans, and if you have any more tips on featuring sparklers or fireworks at your wedding, please share them in the comments below.
For more 4th of July wedding inspiration, check out Americana prettiness, here + here.
