Not all smoke bombs and fireworks are made equal. Some produce weak colours, have short burn times, or even fail to ignite. Using low-quality products can leave you with a disappointing reveal and poor photos.

How to Avoid It:

Buy from a trusted supplier that specialises in gender reveal smoke and fireworks.
Check product reviews and opt for high-quality, vibrant smoke that lasts long enough for great photos.
Test a sample beforehand to ensure the product works as expected.

Wind, rain, or extreme heat can ruin a smoke or firework reveal. A strong breeze can blow the smoke away too quickly, while rain can prevent fireworks from igniting.

How to Avoid It:

Check the weather forecast for the day of your reveal.
Choose a sheltered location if possible, especially for smoke reveals.
If rain is in the forecast, have a backup plan (such as an indoor or rescheduled reveal).

A gender reveal lasts only a few seconds, so capturing the moment perfectly is crucial. A common mistake is missing the best shot due to poor camera positioning or slow reaction times.

How to Avoid It:

• Brief your photographer or videographer on where to stand and when to start recording.
• Use multiple cameras or phones from different angles for better footage.
• If using smoke bombs, allow a few extra seconds before celebrating, so the smoke has time to fully develop.

Fireworks, smoke bombs, and even powder cannons come with some level of risk. Accidents like burns, inhaling too much smoke, or setting fire to dry grass can happen if safety isn’t a priority.

How to Avoid It:

• Always follow manufacturer safety guidelines for smoke bombs and fireworks.
• Keep a safe distance from flammable objects and other people.
• Have a fire extinguisher or water source nearby in case of emergencies.
• If you have young children or pets, ensure they are kept at a safe distance.

A poor location can affect visibility, safety, and the overall impact of your reveal. For example, doing a smoke reveal in a windy, open field may make the smoke disappear too fast, while fireworks in a highly populated area may be unsafe.

How to Avoid It:

• Choose a wide, open area for smoke reveals, free from obstructions that could block the view.
• For fireworks, check local regulations to ensure they are allowed in your chosen location.
• Consider the lighting—outdoor fireworks are best done in the evening, while smoke reveals look best in natural daylight.

If you want a genuine reaction, it’s important that no one accidentally reveals the gender too soon. This happens more often than you’d think—either through packaging errors, miscommunication, or guests who spill the secret.

How to Avoid It:

• Order from a trusted supplier who ensures the correct colour product is packaged securely.
• Have only one trusted person (who isn’t the parents-to-be) handle the setup.
• If ordering online, specify that you don’t want to know the gender and have the results sent directly to the supplier.