Perhaps the most bittersweet moment of any wedding is the traditional wedding send-off. Family and friends all gather to send their final wishes with the new couple as they head off for their new life together. Although throwing rice has long been the traditional send-off, more and more couples are choosing more festive and original ideas. From bubbles to glowing paper lanterns, these unforgettable wedding send-offs are the perfect way to add a final special ingredient to every wedding celebration. Full disclosure, I didn’t have a send-off at my own wedding…the hubs and I were too busy still partying to have one!
Flower Petals
Flowers have always been the perfect ingredient for weddings. From bouquets to table arrangements, no wedding would be complete without at least a few carefully selected flowers. Use this wedding mainstay in your send-off with flower petal potpourri. Lavender, roses, and daisies are all great options. Combine multiple flowers for extra color. Carry this confetti theme over into the rest of your wedding by using the potpourri as a delicate table confetti. Be sure to set some aside for your flower girl to sprinkle down the aisle. Vintage sheet music or creative scrapbooking paper are both great options for creating simple cones to store the potpourri prior to your send-off. This sweet-smelling confetti is the perfect finishing touch for Boho or chic weddings as well as “old-fashion,” traditional ceremonies.
Bubbles
Blowing bubbles isn’t just for children. This whimsical send-off gives the final moments of your celebration a simple, but joyful atmosphere. This playful, bubble-filled backround is a perfect photo opportunity for you and your spouse as well as your guests. Create special bubble wands or bottles to double as unique guest mementos for each of your guests.
Confetti
Weddings don’t have to be “stuffy” and serious. Transform your wedding into an exciting party with festive confetti. Your send-off will easily become a party in and of itself as your loved ones launch confetti and streamers with “confetti cannons” or homemade “party poppers.”
Wish Wands
Some formal wedding venues have policies that prevent many types of wedding send-offs due to clean-up concerns. However, this fun tradition is still possible with mess-free, elegant “wish wands.” These fairytale-like wands are easy to create with a variety of ribbon types and accessories to match any wedding theme. Lace, faux flowers, and even bells are additional ingredients for unique wands your guests can proudly use to wave goodbye.
Sparklers
With more and more weddings hosted at night, sparklers offer a unique and exciting farewell, particularly for beach weddings and late-night receptions. Present individual “sparkler kits” to each guest near the end of your reception. As you and your partner make your exit, you’ll be greeted by an unforgettable sparkler display. Be sure your photographer captures this exciting, eye-catching moment.
Glowing Lanterns
For a more elegant light-up display, say goodbye to your guests with an awe-inspiring glowing lantern send-off. Guests can write personalized messages and wishes on each lantern before lighting it and sending it up into the dark night sky. Even long after the celebration ends, these lanterns will still create an amazing spectacle.
Autumn Leaves
Seasonal weddings hold a special charm, particularly if the decorations are nature-based. Capture the cozy, colorful Autumn charm by using natural leaves as your wedding send-off. The vibrant oranges, reds, and yellows provide a simple but chic alternative that will make everyone smile. Be sure you and your partner take some time to play in the leaves with your guests!
Wedding send-offs are a special moment for you and your partner to share with loved ones. There are many unique ways to say goodbye. Some of the best wedding send-offs double as guest mementos and favors to preserve these priceless memories. Be sure to make the most of this special opportunity with a creative, unforgettable send-off.
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