The Danger with Sparkles

We've all seen them, in movies, commercials and in our favorite bridal magazines. The Sparkle Send Off. Shower of beauty as you go off into your new life. Gorgeous right? Yes but also dangerous. What people fail to realize is these are just handheld firecrackers. A prime example of this is Raleigh photographer Brian Mullins (read his full story here http://resourcemagonline.com/2015/04/how-the-wrong-sparklers-almost-cost-me-my-wedding-photography-career/51219/) he almost lost his hand, and his career, when one of these sparklers blew up in his hand causing 2nd and 3rd degree burns. Not fun. So here are some things to remember is you want the sparklers at your special day.

First things first make sure you are getting the right length. You should get a minimum of the #20. Make sure that you are NOT NOT NOT using matchsticks to light the sparklers. Find the long handled lighters. The easiest way to do this is to light one sparkler and use that to light the others.

Next make sure that your venue allows sparklers. Some don't due to potential fire hazards

Third, make sure you have a way for your guest to extinguish their sparklers once the send off is done

Next make sure there is nothing flammable in the vicinity of the send off. The sparks may seem small and harmless but all it takes is one and that can cause a horrific accident.

There is nothing wrong with doing the sparklers. They really are amazing and they do make gorgeous pictures. But make sure that for the safety of your family, friends, and the venue, you do this safely.