Happy 4th of July!

Okay so it's still only the 3rd, but we thought we'd get the celebrations started early, with a little Independence Day inspiration - that works all year 'round.

Nothing screams 4th of July more than fireworks and sparklers.

And who doesn't love them? Not only are they pretty and fun, but they add such a sense of occasion to a party - and look pretty awesome in the pictures too!

Photo by Mango Studios via Ruffled

Of course a full firework display can be pricey, but if you have room in your budget, it's an epic way to finish out your wedding day, with a bang - literally.

And for the rest of us, a sparkler send-off is an equally special way to light up the night, as you leave the party.

Of course there are a few things to remember...

The Sparkler Send-Off

If you're planning a sparkler send-off, be sure to let your photographer, and your guests know in advance. Sometimes you just have to organise the fun!

Sparkler cards, with a couple of sparklers in them, make great favours, as well as letting the party know what time to light them up.

If you don't have a lot of smokers among your guestlist, be sure to provide matches or lighters to avoid a staggered sparkle!

Look for extra long sparklers for your send-off, so that they last long enough for some perfect snaps (and don't singe your hair!)

Photo by Tessa J Photography via 100 Layer Cake

Added Sparkle

Sparklers don't have to be kept until the send-off, you can feature them in your getting ready shots, as part of your ceremony, in your portraits, or even on your cake.

If your heart is set on one of those dreamy long exposure sparkle shots, be sure to tell your photographer in advance, as they may need an assistant, or special equipment to set up the shot.

If you're planning to feature sparklers at your wedding, why not introduce them with your engagement photos or save the date, so your guests know to expect a little sparkle.

Finally, if you have splashed out on fireworks, be sure to check that they are weatherproof, that all safety measures have been taken, and make sure you're synced up on what time they'll go off... You don't want the sky to light up, while you're still enjoying your post-dinner coffee!

And now some pictorial inspiration to inspire a little sparkle for your wedding day...

Effervescent Engagement

Photo by Jennie Andrews Photography via Inspired by This

Adorable Americana

Photo by CJK Visuals via Style Me Pretty

Photo Op

Photo by Scott Lawrence via Style Me Pretty

Let Love Shine

Photo by Janet Howard Studio via Style Me Pretty

All My Heart

Photo by Paper Heart Photography via The Wedding Chicks

Ceremonial Sparkle

Photo by Elizabeth Messina Photography via Brides

Cherry on Top

Photo by Mustard Seed Photography via Ruffled

Fancy Flares

Photo by Chris Spira Photography via Belle & Chic

What a Sparkler?

Circle of Sparkle

Kiss the Bride

Magical Night

Solo Sparkler

Light Up the Night

Epic Romance

Sweet Send-off

Lovely Lights

Picture Perfect

The Big Finish

The View from Above

Dream Come True

Oh photos like these just make me feel so warm and glowy!

Do let us know your 4th of July plans, and if you have any more tips on featuring sparklers or fireworks at your wedding, please share them in the comments below.

For more 4th of July wedding inspiration, check out Americana prettiness, here + here.