VENUES! Reception at the Baltimore Museum of Industry

HOW TO... Rock a Sparkler Exit at Your Wedding

I'm going to be honest here.  I've not seen this done successfully too many times.  When it's the end of the night and your guests have been drinking for several hours, giving them all sticks of fire probably isn't the best idea.  If you think your guests can handle it without lighting the place on fire (or my hair, or your dress) then here are some suggestions to create a beautiful end to a fabulous night.

1.  Get the largest, longest burning sparklers you can find.  I mean the three or four foot kind that weigh a ton.  Yes, they look ridiculously large and make you feel like a tiny gnome but you're going to need them.

2. Create lighting stations.  Get four of your most sober friends or enlist the staff to help out. (Just make sure to ask them ahead of time)  Arm each person with a bucket of sparklers and a long lighter like the kind you use on the grill.  Everyone can light their sparklers at once and they won't burn out before you're ready to exit. 

3. Have a conductor.  You know your cousin who can whistle really loud or your Uncle with the baritone voice? Trying to get people to form two straight lines at the end of the night is like herding cats and no one is listening.  You're going to need someone to yell really loud to get the crowd moving.  

4. Make sure your exit is in an open space.  I know this sounds obvious but a low overhang or narrow walkway will create a fog of noxious fumes.  You also want to make sure your tunnel of light is wide enough for both of you to pass safely.   

5. Make sure the photographer is ready.  I might only get one shot at this so have someone cue you to go when the photographer is in position.  If this all seems too complicated you could always try bubbles.  

IDEAS! Why you need up lighting for your next event

Everyone has a budget but if you want your event to look spectacular I highly recommend investing in up lighting.  When done right it can turn a boring ballroom into a carnival of color and really show off the setting.  Below are some great examples of gorgeous lighting.

Hotel Monoco Alexandria

Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel

The Fairfax at Embassy Row

Hilton Washington DC/Rockville Hotel & Executive Meeting Center

The Westin Annapolis

VENUES! The Inn at the Colonnade in Baltimore Maryland - The Atrium

I recently photographed the Atrium for the Inn at the Colonnade in Baltimore.  This unique room features a domed glass ceiling and beautiful chandelier.  Located near Johns Hopkins in Baltimore this venue is perfect for ceremonies, receptions and all manner of parties. 

VENUES! The Fairfax at Embassy Row-Washington DC

The Fairfax at Embassy Row is an absolutely stunning location for a wedding reception.  There are so many beautiful details to this impressive hotel that I haven't even begun to explore. I am always blown away by the decor when I walk in the ballroom. 

EVENTS! Reception in the Park

Katie and Todd 

Patapsco State Park

Granite, MD