Outdoor Gender Reveal Ideas

The best outdoor reveals use color you can see from across the yard. Smoke bombs, smoke cannons and gender reveal fire extinguishers fill the air with pink or blue. Confetti cannons shower everyone in color. For a bigger moment, set off several at once or pair smoke with confetti.

Yes, when used as directed in an open outdoor space. Our smoke bombs are non-toxic and pour out pink or blue smoke for 45+ seconds. Hold them at arm's length, point them downwind and keep them away from dry grass, buildings and faces. Check local rules first, since some areas restrict smoke products during burn bans.

Smoke bombs give the longest show, with 45+ seconds of color for photos and video. Smoke cannons are point, twist and pop, sending color 20+ feet into the sky. Confetti cannons need no lighter and burst biodegradable tissue confetti, so they're the easiest pick with kids around. Many parents use two: confetti for the pop, smoke for the photos.

Late afternoon, in the hour or two before sunset, gives the softest light for photos. Pink and blue show up best against a clear sky or green trees. Avoid midday sun, which washes out color, and pick a backup date in case of rain.

Light wind is fine and can spread smoke into a bigger cloud. Stand with the wind at your back so the color blows away from you, your guests and the camera. In strong wind, choose a reveal with an instant burst, like a fire extinguisher or an exploding sports ball.

We don't recommend it. Fireworks laws vary by state and town, some areas ban them completely, and they carry real fire risk in dry weather. Smoke cannons, confetti cannons or a fire extinguisher give you the same wow moment without a fuse.

Our confetti is biodegradable tissue, so a rake or leaf blower handles most of it. Fire extinguisher powder is water-soluble and hoses off patios. Burnout powder is biodegradable and rinses off tires, rims and paint with water. Let used smoke bombs cool completely before you throw them away.

Put guests in a half circle 20 to 30 feet back, facing you. Your photographer stands with them, with the wind at their back so color drifts away from the lens. Mark your spot with balloons or a sign so everyone knows where to look when you count down.