Wedding Send Off Ideas for a Memorable Exit
Wedding days unfold in a thread of unforgettable moments, and the send off is your grand finale. It’s that magical moment when you and your partner officially step into your new life together, surrounded by cheers, lights, and love. The party is over for the night, but the memories will live on. Unlike wedding recessionals, which occur after the ceremony, send offs (or wedding exits) happen at the end of your reception, giving you one last chance to make a final splash before calling it a night. Here are some creative wedding send off ideas to ensure your exit is as unforgettable as the rest of your big day.
1. Bubbles
Who doesn’t love the timeless charm of bubbles? Picture this: you and your partner make your exit, surrounded by a soft shimmer of floating bubbles like something straight out of a fairy-tale. Perfect for daytime or outdoor weddings, bubbles are as romantic as they are fun, and they look amazing in photos! Consider adding a personal touch with bubble wands shaped like hearts or decorated to match your wedding colors. Also, if you’re looking to add a lot of bubbles to the scene, consider mixing in a few bubble guns.
Photo by Party of Two at Laboratory Mill in Lincolnton, NC United States
2. Small Glow Sticks
Ready to light up the night? Small glow sticks are a fantastic budget-friendly option that will leave your guests cheering. Hand them out in your wedding colors or go for a rainbow of hues for a playful twist. The best part? Glow sticks are kid-approved and safe for all ages (unlike sparklers), making sure everyone can join in on the fun.
Photo by Charles Moll at Spokane Farm in Spokane Washington USA
3. Fiber Optic Wands
Want to add a touch of high-tech sparkle to your send off? Fiber optic wands are the way to go! These wands, with their multiple light modes, create a fun display of light as your guests wave them in the air. They’re perfect for a modern wedding vibe and double as fun dance floor props if you pass them out to your guests earlier in the evening. These are a common go-to option for couples who want a sparkler-type look and feel but aren’t able to make it happen because of venue restrictions.
Photo by Kevin Heslin at La Mariposa Hotel in Manuel Antonio Costa Rica
Photo by Stefani Ciotti at Deer Creek Ridge in Malibu, CA USA
4. Light Wands or Light Sabres
For the couple who loves a bit of whimsy (or maybe just a good Star Wars reference), light sabres or wands bring a playful, unique vibe to your exit. Imagine your guests forming an arch of glowing sabres for you to walk through! Plus, your photographer will capture some truly unforgettable shots.
Photo by Jessie and Dallin at Oak Hills Reception and Event Center in Layton, UT United States
5. Lanterns
If you’re dreaming of a serene and elegant send off, lanterns provide the perfect option. Whether you opt for floating lanterns drifting into the night sky or handheld ones carried by your guests, the warm glow creates a nice, or what some might say, “enchanting” atmosphere. This idea works especially well for rustic, boho, or outdoor weddings.
Photo by Picturist Photography at Cavallo Point Lodge in Sausalito, California United States
6. Car Goodbye
There’s something super classic about a grand car exit! Whether it’s a vintage convertible adorned with flowers or a sleek modern ride with a “Just Married” sign, a stylish getaway car makes a statement. Add some flair with streamers, tin cans, or even LED lights, and drive off into your happily ever after in style.
Photo by The Macmeekens at The Grand Ivory in Leonard, Texas United States of America
7. Confetti
Confetti has a way of bringing joy and excitement to any celebration. It’s colorful, playful, and totally customizable. Go green with biodegradable options for outdoor venues, or add a touch of glam with metallic confetti for evening weddings. Hand out cones or poppers for a fun and easy distribution, ensuring your guests can’t resist getting involved.
Photo by JCM Photography at Crest Center & Pavilion in Asheville, NC United States
8. Sparklers
Few things are as magical as a sparkler send off. Hand your guests sparklers to light up the night as you make your exit, creating a dazzling pathway of sparkling lights. This idea is especially photogenic, resulting in stunning shots of you and your partner surrounded by a golden glow. Make sure to check with your venue about sparkler policies, and consider providing buckets of sand or water for safe disposal. Read more about Wedding Sparklers in this article.
Photo by Jeff Tisman at The Ashford Estate in Allentown NJ United States
Photo by Andy Sidders Photography at Monkton Barn in Buckinghamshire UK
9. Just Natural – With No Props
Sometimes, simplicity is the most beautiful choice. For a natural send off, line up your guests in two rows to form an aisle. As you and your partner walk through, your friends and family can clap, cheer, and offer their well-wishes. This no-prop option creates an intimate and heartfelt moment that’s all about the love and energy of your guests. It’s perfect for couples who want a low-key but meaningful exit, and it makes for timeless, emotion-filled photos.
Photo by Heritage House Photo at East Wind Long Island in Wading River, NY United States
Other Ideas and Inspiration
Here are a few more wedding exit ideas for you to consider.
Photo by Irina Duane at Boyne Hill House Estate in co. Meath Ireland
- Flower Petals: For a romantic and fragrant touch, nothing beats a shower of flower petals.
- Streamers: Handheld streamers are simple, fun, and incredibly photogenic.
- Fireworks: Want to end with a literal bang? A fireworks display is the ultimate grand finale.
- Balloons: Eco-friendly balloons in your wedding colors add a whimsical, celebratory vibe.
- Snow or Fog Machines: Perfect for winter weddings or creating a dramatic, cinematic moment.
More Inspo
For your inspiration, here are few more wedding send off photos from our incredible photographers.
Photo by Authentic Collective at Old Edwards Inn and Spa in Highlands, North Carolina USA
Photo by In Love and Adventure at The Red Earth Venue in Moab, Utah USA
Photo by Irina Duane at Ballymagarvey Village in Balrath, Co. Meath Ireland
Photo by 4 Eyes Photography at The Heritage Centre in Cremona, AB Canada
Photo by Buffy Goodman at backyard wedding in Calgary, Alberta Canada
Photo by Geoffer Lopez at Eventos del Sol in Santa Ana, San José Costa Rica
Photo by The Macmeekens at The Grand Ivory in Leonard, Texas United States of America
Photo by Milan lazic at lacuna lofts in Chicago United States
Photo by Marie Filonenko at Gorzelnia 505 in Wielkopolska Poland
Photo by Mauricio Urena at La Casa de la Ruina in Antigua Guatemala
Photo by Heritage House Photo at Gatsby On The Ocean in Wantagh, NY United States
Your wedding send off is more than just an exit; it’s the last big moment of your celebration—a chance to leave a lasting impression. Whether you choose a classic like bubbles, a fun twist with glow sticks, or a show-stopping getaway car, make sure it reflects your unique love story. With these wedding send off ideas, your exit will make the highlight reel for your big day, leaving you and your guests with great, lasting memories.
