Lyla Dejesus
Decorating your wedding reception is an important task on your wedding to-do list. The decorations you choose will help set the stage for the occasion and create a lasting impression on you and your guests. Whether you're working with a blank slate or a venue that already has a specific type of decor in place, there are many ways to make the space your own. From choosing a theme and colour scheme to adding personal touches, you can create a well-coordinated event that reflects your style and vision.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Venue | Banquet halls, ballrooms, rooftops, historical venues, restaurants, private beach houses |
| Decorating constraints | Fire codes, installation details, approval to modify the space, no-tacks/tape policies |
| Existing decor | Ornate flooring, patterned walls, glamorous light fixtures, antique hardwood floors, marble fireplaces, spiral staircases |
| Colour palette | Emerald green, gold, royal blue, silver, white, burgundy, ivory, dusty rose, sage green |
| Theme | Vintage, modern, monochromatic, minimalist, opulent |
| Decorations | Tablecloths, napkins, chair sashes, candle holders, cutlery, chargers, balloons, garlands, plants, antique furnishings, lace tablecloths, old picture frames, old typewriters, suitcases, gramophones, geometric shapes, contemporary art |
| Focal points | Backdrops, light displays, floral installations, cakes, head tables |
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What You'll Learn
Choose a theme and colour scheme
Choosing a theme and colour scheme is one of the most important parts of wedding planning, as it will guide the rest of your decorative choices, including the types of flowers and lighting you select. A good theme will give you a chance to immerse yourself and your guests in a well-coordinated event.
If you're working with a tight budget, you might want to choose only two or three decorations that add visual impact to key areas of your venue. For instance, you could opt for a lighting effect, dramatic ceiling decor, or a stunning wedding cake. Adding something metallic to your designs can also elevate your aesthetic.
Before deciding on a theme, it's important to consider the type of wedding venue and the decor that's already in place. Historical venues, for instance, may have specific types of decor that cannot be changed, but that doesn't mean you can't add personal touches. You can use pipe and drape or screens to hide certain features, or bring in decorative rugs or a tiled dance floor to conceal the existing flooring. If you like the existing decor, you can use it to your advantage and highlight unique elements with spotlights or floral arrangements.
Once you've chosen a venue, you can decide on a theme and colour scheme. If you're feeling nostalgic, a vintage wedding reception with antique furnishings, lace tablecloths, and old frames might be the way to go. Dusty rose, sage green, and ivory are suitable colours for this theme. For a modern wedding reception, you might opt for a crisp, minimalist design with a monochromatic colour scheme and pops of bold colours like black, white, and metallics.
For a luxurious and elegant look, consider an emerald green colour scheme with gold accents. You can use emerald green tablecloths, napkins, and chair sashes, and add glamour with golden chargers, candle holders, or cutlery. Royal blue decorations with silver or white accents are also striking, and some consider royal blue table runners a "must-have". For autumn or winter weddings, a combination of burgundy and gold creates a luxurious and romantic atmosphere.
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Work with the venue: Highlight unique features or conceal aspects you don't like
When it comes to wedding reception decorations, you can get creative and make the venue your own, even if there are some existing features you don't particularly like. Here are some tips to help you work with the venue and create a cohesive and beautiful space:
Highlight Unique Features
If your venue has some stunning architectural elements, don't hesitate to highlight them. For example, if there's a marble fireplace or a spiral staircase, use spotlights or decorative floral arrangements to draw attention to these features. Beautiful antique hardwood floors can be accentuated with a monogrammed gobo, and a grand picture window can be the perfect backdrop for the sweetheart table.
Conceal Aspects You Don't Like
If there are certain aspects of the venue's decor that you're not a fan of, there are ways to conceal or minimise their impact. For example, if you don't like the existing carpet, bring in decorative rugs or a tiled dance floor to cover it up. If there are paintings or sconces that don't fit your theme, you can use pipe and drape or screens to hide them without modifying the existing fixtures.
Work with the Existing Decor
Consider using the existing decor to your advantage, especially if it matches your wedding style. This can save you time and effort. For example, if the venue has ornate flooring, patterned walls, or glamorous light fixtures, you might not need to add much more to create a stunning space.
Fill the Space Appropriately
If you're working with a large banquet room or a high-ceilinged ballroom, consider the impact of scale. Tall centerpieces and large tables will be more visually impactful in these spaces. You can also use decorative lighting, such as uplighting, to embellish walls or columns without adding clutter.
Avoid Clashing with the Venue
While adding personal touches is important, avoid decorations that clash with the existing decor or architectural features. Opt for elements that complement and enhance the venue's natural beauty. For example, if the venue has a rustic vibe, you might want to accent the exterior with string lights, draping, or fresh floral garlands to add a wedding-day flair while retaining the homey feel.
Remember to get creative, think about what you can highlight or conceal, and always get the go-ahead from your wedding planner or venue manager to ensure you're adhering to any necessary guidelines.
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Create a focal point: A backdrop, light display, floral installation, or cake
When it comes to wedding receptions, creating a focal point can be a great way to make your special day stand out. Here are some ideas for backdrop, light display, floral installation, or cake focal points:
Backdrop
A backdrop can serve as a stunning focal point for your wedding reception, setting the tone and ambiance for the event. When choosing a backdrop, consider the space available and the overall theme and colour scheme of your wedding. For instance, if you have a smaller venue, a restrained design might be more suitable, while a larger venue can accommodate a more elaborate backdrop with various design elements. You can opt for a floral archway, a rustic wooden structure, or a simple draped fabric. Personalized signs, playful balloons, cascading flowers, and greenery can also be added to enhance the overall aesthetic.
Light Display
Lighting can be used to create a stunning focal point and elevate the overall ambiance of your wedding reception. When done well, lighting can enhance all the other decorative elements, from your wedding cake to your guests. It can also create awesome photo opportunities. Consider your budget and venue when planning your lighting design. For example, if you're hosting an outdoor wedding, take note of outlet availability and discuss any permits or power requirements with your venue.
Floral Installation
Flowers can be a beautiful way to create a focal point at your wedding reception. Consider a floral arch or a large floral arrangement as the backdrop for your ceremony, creating a "wow" moment for you and your guests. You can also incorporate a statement floral piece at the head table, where you'll eat your first meal as a married couple. A hanging floral arrangement or a flower wall behind the table can make it a stunning focal point.
Cake
Your wedding cake can be a focal point of its own! Choose a spot that is visible and complements your cake's design. Consider adding a backdrop of soft ribbons, a statement room divider, or a framework draped in fabric to make your cake stand out. Don't forget to light up your cake display; spotlights can be fabulous, or you can go for a softer vibe with candles, tea lights, or hanging festoon lighting. Finally, think about the cake stand itself; elevate your cake with a stand that suits your style, with options like glass, stone, or wood, and styles ranging from glitzy to minimalist or floral.
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Table decorations: Linens, centrepieces, and candles
When it comes to table decorations for your wedding reception, linens, centrepieces, and candles are key elements that can elevate the aesthetics of your celebration.
Linens
The type of linens you choose for your wedding reception tables can add a unique touch to your event. For instance, elegant linens can lend a touch of class, while lace linens can evoke a vintage-inspired look. Opting for a monochromatic colour scheme or bold pops of colour can create a modern and crisp aesthetic. Alternatively, a rich colour palette, such as burgundy and gold, can imbue a sense of luxury and romance. If you're aiming for a rustic or garden party vibe, consider pairing burlap with delicate lace for a charming atmosphere.
Centrepieces
Centrepieces are a great way to showcase your creativity and add a personal touch to your wedding reception. Floral centrepieces are always a popular choice, with colourful or white-and-green floral arrangements being equally captivating. For a Parisian carnival vibe, consider punchy pink and blue centrepieces, or opt for a tropical aesthetic with bright green, coral, and blue flowers. If you're seeking a more rustic or bohemian style, rattan chargers and burgundy linens paired with roses, dahlias, and foliage can be a chic choice.
Candle centrepieces exude romance and sophistication. To avoid issues with wax, consider using candle shields, encasements, or flameless candles. Floating candles in cylinder vases or gold vessels paired with flowers can create a stunning and elegant display. For a more mismatched look, you can mix and match candle holders from thrift shops or borrow them from friends and family.
Candles
Candles contribute to the romantic ambiance of your wedding reception. Whether you prefer the elegance of tall silver crystal tea lights or the warmth of vintage-inspired candle holders, candles can enhance the atmosphere of your event. If you're using candles as part of your centrepieces, ensure you take the necessary precautions to prevent wax from damaging your linens.
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Lighting: Up-lights, twinkle lights, or fairy lights
Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood and ambiance of your wedding reception. Up-lights, twinkle lights, and fairy lights can all be used to create a romantic and enchanting atmosphere.
Uplighting is a popular choice for wedding receptions, especially for indoor or covered evening receptions. It involves placing individual light sources at the base of architectural features or points of interest, typically around the perimeter of a space, to draw attention to those details. For example, uplighting can be used to highlight beautiful columns or a spiral staircase in a historic venue. It adds drama and elegance to the space and can also guide guests towards important areas such as the bar or photo booth. However, it is important to note that deep purple and blue uplighting should be used sparingly as they can give a nightclub vibe, and green light should be avoided as it can make food and people look sickly.
Twinkle lights and fairy lights (also known as string lights) can also add a magical touch to your wedding reception. These lights can be used to create an indoor-outdoor concept by covering a paved courtyard or lawn with a reception tent adorned with lights. They can also be draped over trees, wrapped around columns or beams, or used to create a backdrop for a sweetheart table. Battery-powered, corded electric, and solar-powered options are available for added convenience and flexibility.
When considering lighting for your wedding reception, it is important to take into account the existing decor and venue restrictions. Some venues may have specific rules and regulations regarding modifications, so it is always a good idea to consult with your wedding planner or venue manager before making any final decisions.
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Frequently asked questions
Choose two or three decorations or ideas that will have a big visual impact. You can also save money by thrifting and upcycling items.
You can use pipe cleaners to tie decorations to stair bannisters, or fishing line or clear string to hang decorations. You can also use command strips and hooks, or over-the-door and suction hooks.
A good place to start is the season—for example, a rich palette of burgundy and gold is ideal for autumn/winter weddings. You can also opt for a minimalist design with a monochromatic colour scheme, or go for bold colours like black, white, and metallics.
