Many firework companies film their displays. Ask them if they have any previous displays on DVD so you can see their work before hiring them.

Do you have any tips to add? Let us know in the comments to help each other out!

I've done a little bit of initial research and one of the most important things when dealing with firework companies is making sure that they're covered by public liability insurance – all of the reputable ones will be able to assure me of that I'm sure. Some companies offer a service where they liaise with the local authorities and the venue, so they need to be told the location details well in advance of the date.

The venue will need to be told too so they can expect the fireworks company to come over and scout everything out. I've already checked that they are happy for us to have a fireworks display – some venues are unable to accommodate them, or have time restrictions if they are near residential areas.

The process includes design, setting it all up as well as firing on the night, so I need to check exactly what is included in any wedding fireworks display package. We need to decide upon the timing as soon as possible too – something to start off the dancing perhaps or to mark the end of the day? I suppose it depends on when we decide to leave, but I think I'd like to have the fireworks display at the start of the dancing – I don't want us to miss them because we're getting ready to have our send-off!