How to Plan Epic 'Will You Marry Me' Fireworks for Your Proposal

We bet you see stars in your eyes every time you look at your S.O. Popping the question with "will you marry me" fireworks as the backdrop to your proposal is a surefire way to start this new chapter in your love story. And while there are other proposal ideas you could go for, this one speaks especially to the firecracker in your life. We had a chat with Nora Sheils of Portland- and Seattle-based Bridal Bliss Event Planning, who has expertise in helping couples plan a breathtaking proposal firework display. Let's take a look at all you need to know about an extra-special fireworks proposal with all the bells and whistles your love deserves.

In this article:

• Can Fireworks Spell 'Will You Marry Me?'
• How Much Do Proposal Fireworks Cost?
• How to Plan a Proposal with Fireworks

Can Fireworks Spell 'Will You Marry Me?'

There have been tons of innovations with fireworks over the years, and if you're looking for proposal fireworks that say, "Will you marry me" in the sky, it's technically feasible, but it can be tricky. With fireworks, you can't quite control which direction they'll end up once they've made their way upward. You may have seen letter-style fireworks for holidays, theme park shows and other big events with drones that more easily spell out a phrase or sentence, so see what services or vendors you can work with to ensure the message in the sky comes across correctly.

Another thing to consider is that spelling out this four-word phrase will take quite a while, and it may be difficult for your spouse-to-be to uncover what's being said with these sparks. There are ways to make the shape of the fireworks look like a word or sentence when they first launch, but it's a brief burst that they could miss in a blink.

Overall, you can absolutely include fireworks in your epic proposal. Be sure to consider ways to elevate the "just said yes" moment without spelling the entire phrase out with fireworks. We highly suggest these fun options: a ring-shaped firework in the sky, fireworks shooting off around a "will you marry me" sign, a private proposal with a fireworks display and a nighttime picnic or taking a long-exposure photo with sparklers where you write out "will you marry me" in the secret message.

How Much Do Proposal Fireworks Cost?

When considering a fireworks proposal, cost plays a huge role. There's a range between a simple display and a luxury display that rivals Disneyland. Shorter displays with simple, classic fireworks can cost a few hundred dollars, while the longer, more elaborate displays can cost thousands. Sheils says, "Pricing really depends on the length of show time, setup and the specifics of the location/show." She adds that you can consider cold sparks, a machine that simulates fireworks and is usable in many different locations, making them a safer, budget-friendly choice.

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Depending on what time of year you propose, like around Independence Day or New Year's, you may even be able to find fireworks yourself. However, keep in mind certain fireworks laws in your area before stocking up. A luxury display of fireworks with shapes, certain colors and other special effects will be pricier and require the right venue and vendors to make this dream come to life.

At the end of the day, just make sure the type of display you create speaks to your S.O. and what they like. Perhaps they love smoke bombs and sparklers the most, or they want to watch the night sky dazzle with vivid colors. Creating the proposal of their dreams is all about listening to their desires.

How to Plan a Proposal with Fireworks

"Fireworks add that wow factor to any event, including proposals," Sheils says. "Timing is of the essence, and quite a bit of background work needs to go into it." Now that you've decided on a jaw-dropping fireworks proposal, let's get into some tips and tricks to make sure it runs smoothly and is unforgettable.

Book the Right Vendors

"Make sure you find a qualified and licensed pyrotechnic group. They should be able to gather the required documentation and permitting to ensure you are on the up and up," Sheils says. You may also want to hire a proposal planner to help set things up so that your only job is to hold out the ring.

Plan for a Nighttime Proposal

What better way to surprise your S.O. than with a proposal at the end of a perfect date? Fireworks work best at nighttime, of course, so plan your whole day and night around the big moment. Since it requires darkness, however, make sure you're able to get to the right spot safely and that you're not disrupting any nearby people or animals.

Consider Decor and Extras

A fireworks proposal is one of the most exciting engagement trends, and you can inject plenty of other fun extras into the moment. How about renting a boat while you watch the fireworks up above? Or book a luxury picnic to celebrate afterward.

Check Weather Conditions

A fireworks display may be a no-go in too dry or rainy conditions. Sheils says, "Keep in mind that burn bans happen quite a bit, and either have a plan B in place or know that if the weather gods are against you, you may not be able to make it happen." Keep track of the weather, and be ready to move quickly if the skies are clear.

Have a Photographer Nearby

Capturing the moment is a must, so book a proposal photographer to hide away while you pop the question. What's more romantic than a shot of you two while fireworks surround you? Coordinate with a local photographer about the big moment to have a memory you'll cherish forever.

Pick the Right Location

Be sure you have an open area without a crowd where you're allowed to shoot off fireworks. In case you need a backup plan, Sheils adds, "Another, much less expensive option, is cold sparks. You get the same fireworks vibe but on a much smaller scale, more contained and allowed at many venues (even some indoors)."