How to Use Smoke Bombs at Your Wedding

It’s hard to look through photos of wedding inspiration without stopping at an image of a couple surrounded by a cloud of color. And that’s all because of smoke bombs.

Smoke bombs are becoming increasingly popular as couples look to create an incredible moment for unforgettable wedding photos. But they’re not as simple to add to your festivities as they may seem. There are a number of planning, timing, and safety tips to keep in mind. But we’ve got all the details you need to decide if they’re the right fit for your celebration.

Below, find tips and tricks from an industry pro on how to use smoke bombs at your wedding.

Why Use Smoke Bombs at Your Wedding?

Smoke bombs are a unique way to create a splash of color at your wedding. A plume of colored smoke is released into the air for a short window of time for a fun, playful moment. “It’s completely unique, and there is a little child in all of us when it comes to something like a Fourth of July celebration. It’s a great way to create a large visual at a low cost,” says Keith Willard, owner of Keith Willard Events.

How to Incorporate Smoke Bombs Into Your Wedding

If smoke bombs are permitted at your venue, there are a variety of options for outdoor use. First, consider the timing of releasing the smoke bombs. Willard says using them during the daytime produces the best results. It’s also important to think about the small window of time that you’ll actually have smoke in the air. Smoke bombs typically only last from 60 to 90 seconds, so timing them right to make the most impact is important.

As you implement smoke bombs into your day-of timeline, think about the most important moments or highlights throughout the event. Opportunities such as you and your partner's first kiss, making an entrance to your reception, or a colorful send-off are all great options.

Planning to only use them for photos? These can be better planned. Plan a break for photography and incorporate smoke bombs into your couple’s portraits or wedding party photos.

Safety Tips for Smoke Bombs at Your Wedding

The key to successfully using smoke bombs at your wedding is to consider safety first. Smoke bombs fall in the same category as fireworks, so all restrictions and safety precautions apply in the same way. “It’s important that everyone that is using them knows exactly how to use them, and how to use them safely,” says Willard. “Where there is smoke there is fire, even if it’s a slow small burn.”

Consult an event planner that is experienced with using smoke bombs, or check with a fireworks company. Designating someone who is trained to use them is the safest option. "Keep in mind that you are going to need a lot of space to set these off," says Willard. "Smoke bombs cannot be ignited in confined spaces."

With your timing, think about wind direction and speed. Like fireworks, you don’t want to set them off during high winds. Willard says high winds can also make the smoke dissipate much faster, ruining the photo-worthy moment.

It’s best to plan to limit your time spent within the smoke cloud to avoid inhaling the smoke. The colored smoke also has the potential to stain clothes, depending on the smoke bombs, your distance, and the length of time spent around it. Willard suggests giving guests and others around your venue a heads-up that you plan to use smoke bombs. The last thing you want is to have all of your wedding guests covered in colored smoke.

After the smoke bombs have gone up, be sure to have a designated person clean up the garbage remaining from setting them off.

Photography Tips for Smoke Bombs at Your Wedding

If you’re planning to incorporate smoke bombs for specific portraits, talk with your photographer first. Double-check to be sure they are comfortable with capturing photos incorporating smoke bombs and that they have experience with it. They may have other great tips for timing, colors, locations, and more to incorporate into your planning.