Diy Chandeliers: Light Up Your Wedding On A Budget

Lighting is one of the most important décor elements at a wedding. It can be the difference between a one-note design and an immersive space filled with inviting ambience. Chandeliers are a great way to elevate your decor and reinforce the wedding style. While chandeliers can be expensive, there are ways to create cheap, lighted chandeliers for your wedding. You can opt for 'fake' chandeliers made from premium materials that look beautiful in any setting, or you can hang string lights through an existing trellis of greenery for a dainty, yet elegant look. You can also drape lights over your ceremony arbor or hang chandeliers from oak trees for a whimsical, outdoor wedding.

Mix antique chandeliers with greenery

Mixing antique chandeliers with greenery is a great way to create a statement installation at your wedding. This unexpected combination is sure to be a serious photo op moment for you and your guests.

To achieve this look, you can follow these steps:

First, source antique chandeliers. These can be family heirlooms, thrifted, or rented from event rental companies. The number of chandeliers you need will depend on the size of your venue and the desired impact.

Next, select the type of greenery you want to use. You can choose from a variety of options such as ivy, eucalyptus, vines, garlands, or leafy greens. Fresh greenery will add a natural fragrance to your wedding, enhancing the atmosphere.

Then, plan the placement of your chandeliers. Consider hanging them at different heights to create a sense of dimension. If your venue has trees, hanging chandeliers from branches can add a whimsical touch. Alternatively, you can hang them indoors above banquet tables, dance floors, or sweetheart tables to create a romantic atmosphere.

Finally, install the chandeliers and begin adding the greenery. You can wrap and weave the greenery around the chandelier arms and framework, allowing some leaves to drape and hang naturally. If using flowers, intersperse them throughout the greenery for added colour and texture. Ensure that any lighting sources, such as candles or lightbulbs, are safely secured and won't come into contact with the greenery.

By following these steps and adding your personal touches, you can create a stunning display of mixed antique chandeliers with greenery, leaving your guests in awe and with plenty of photo opportunities.

Create a ceiling of lights

Twinkling fairy lights are a great way to create a starry night effect at your wedding venue. Hang them in abundance to create a light-up drapery effect. You can also use them to create a ceiling of lights at an outdoor wedding to reflect the night sky.

For a more rustic look, consider using string lights to create a ceiling light wall. This will illuminate your guests from above and behind as they enjoy their dinner.

For a more modern look, try hanging disco balls with your lighting. The mirrored tiles will reflect the light and add a fun, whimsical touch to your wedding decor.

If you're looking for a more elegant option, chandeliers are a great choice. Hang them at different heights to create a sense of dimension. For a more natural look, consider using rattan chandeliers, which are made of strands of palm and will add a light and airy feel to your wedding.

Another option is to use paper lanterns to create a ceiling of lights. Choose lanterns that contrast with your lighting to make them stand out.

Don't forget to consider the power source for your ceiling of lights. Make sure you have access to power outlets or use battery-powered lights.

Hang chandeliers from trees

Hanging chandeliers from trees is a great way to create a whimsical and elegant outdoor wedding reception. Here are some tips and ideas to achieve this look:

First, consider the type of chandelier you want to use. You can find inexpensive chandeliers at thrift stores, on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or OfferUp. If you're feeling creative, you can make your own chandelier using a cardboard base and decorating it with lights and beads. Another option is to use hanging floral chandeliers, which can add a romantic and natural touch to your wedding decor.

When hanging the chandeliers, look for strong branches that can support the weight of the fixture. You'll also need to ensure you have access to power outlets or use battery-powered lights. If you're hanging multiple chandeliers, play with the height to add dimension, and consider draping lights or garlands between the trees to create a cohesive look.

To make your chandeliers even more eye-catching, decorate them with paint, beads, or other trinkets. You can also change the light bulb colours using an app on your phone to match the theme of your wedding or celebrate different holidays.

Finally, remember to have a plan for accessing and cleaning your chandeliers. They will need to be cleaned regularly and may need to be taken down during severe weather, so ensure you can safely reach them without climbing on a ladder.

Use candles of varying heights

Using candles of varying heights is a great way to showcase your wedding venue curation. Opt for tall pillar candles and mini votives to create a similar effect to the image from this real-life wedding.

Candles are a fantastic way to save money on wedding centrepieces. You can alternate between votive and taper candles, allowing guests to interact across the table. Cylindrical vases will protect the candles from accidentally falling. If your venue allows, you can also use real candles to create a romantic atmosphere.

For a rustic wedding, bark heart lanterns can be purchased from your local home decor store. You can also create your own candle holder by hot-gluing twigs to a glass votive and adding a flameless pillar candle.

If you want to add a unique glow to your table decor, try using submersible LED lights in vases with water and flowers. The lights will illuminate the flowers, and you can add floating candles on top. For a creative twist, use table mirrors underneath the vases to create reflections.

For a simple yet stunning effect, fill glass hurricanes with pillar candles and place them on a table with stones from outdoors. This will create a romantic atmosphere for your wedding reception.

Use Moroccan-inspired lanterns

Moroccan-inspired lanterns can add a touch of exotic glamour to your wedding. With intricate metal cutouts and ornate glass designs, these lanterns create a gorgeous effect of flickering light, making them perfect for outdoor events or casting a beautiful glow on tabletops.

You can find Moroccan-inspired lanterns in a variety of colours and styles, from vibrant glass lanterns to elegant metal candle holders. For a truly unique touch, consider purchasing a DIY Turkish Lamp Kit and creating your own Moroccan-style lantern.

When using Moroccan-inspired lanterns as part of your wedding decor, consider the following:

• Size and placement: Moroccan lanterns come in various sizes, from small tabletop centrepieces to large hanging lanterns. Choose the size and placement of your lanterns based on the overall look you want to achieve and the amount of light you want to create.
• Lighting source: You can use real candles or LED lights with your lanterns. If using candles, ensure you choose a safe location and take the necessary fire safety precautions. LED lights are a safer alternative, especially for outdoor events.
• Colour and style: Moroccan lanterns come in various colours, including gold, silver, bronze, and multicolour. Choose a colour and style that complements your wedding theme and decor.
• Hanging or tabletop: Moroccan lanterns can be hung from trees, placed on tables, or used as part of a centrepiece display. Get creative with your display by wrapping laurel around homemade posts or incorporating other decorative elements.
• Battery-powered options: If you're looking to create a lighting display in an area without access to power outlets, consider using battery-powered lanterns or fairy lights. This will give you more flexibility in your setup and reduce the need for extension cords.
• Safety: Ensure that any lighting displays you create are safe and secure, especially if hanging lanterns from trees or other structures. Follow the venue's guidelines and regulations regarding lighting and fire safety.

Frequently asked questions