Creating Diy Lighted Wedding Columns: A Step-By-Step Guide

If you're looking to add a touch of elegance and glamour to your wedding, consider creating DIY lighted wedding columns. These stunning structures will not only provide a beautiful backdrop for your ceremony or reception but will also create a romantic and magical ambiance. With careful planning and creativity, you can design and craft these columns yourself, adding a unique and personalized touch to your special day. By incorporating lighting elements, you can transform ordinary columns into breathtaking focal points that will leave a lasting impression on you and your guests. In this guide, we'll explore the steps, materials, and creative ideas to help you craft these illuminated wedding columns seamlessly.

Choosing the Right Materials

When creating DIY lighted wedding columns, selecting suitable materials is crucial for both aesthetic appeal and structural stability. Here are some guidelines to help you choose the right components for your project:

Begin by deciding on the type of lighting you want to use. LED lights are a popular choice for DIY wedding columns as they are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and emit minimal heat. You can choose between LED string lights, LED strip lights, or individual LED bulbs, depending on the desired effect and your level of craftsmanship. If you opt for string lights or strip lights, ensure you select a variety with a flexible wire that can be easily wrapped around the column structure.

For the columns themselves, you have a few options. Many people choose to use PVC pipes as they are lightweight, affordable, and easy to work with. You can find PVC pipes at most hardware stores and cut them to the desired height. Another option is to use wooden dowels or poles, which can be stained or painted to match your wedding color palette. Metal tubing or galvanized pipes can also be used for a more industrial or rustic look. Consider the overall theme and style of your wedding when making this choice.

The base of your columns is important for stability. You can use square or circular wooden platforms, which can be decorated with fabric or flowers to match your wedding theme. Another option is to use heavy-duty flower pots or buckets, especially if you plan to decorate the columns with flowers or greenery. Fill the pots or buckets with concrete or sand to add weight and stability, ensuring they won't topple over.

When it comes to decorating the columns, tulle fabric is a popular choice as it is lightweight and can be draped elegantly. You can choose from a variety of colors to match your wedding palette. Sheer fabric, such as organza or chiffon, can also be used to create a romantic and ethereal effect. Consider using fabric that complements the style and color of the bridal party's attire.

Finally, select your floral arrangements or greenery to adorn the columns. Choose flowers that are in season and match your wedding color scheme. Real flowers add a touch of elegance, but high-quality artificial flowers can also be used if you want a more cost-effective and long-lasting option. Greenery such as ivy, eucalyptus, or ferns can be draped around the columns for a natural and whimsical look.

Lighting Options

When it comes to lighting up your DIY wedding columns, there are a few different options to consider. Each option will create a different ambiance and look, so choose the one that best suits your wedding vision and venue.

String lights are a popular choice for wedding decorations and can be easily wrapped around the columns. Opt for warm white lights for a soft, romantic glow, or choose colored string lights to match your wedding theme. For a more elegant and sophisticated look, fairy lights can be used. These tiny lights are more delicate and subtle, creating a whimsical and magical atmosphere. They can be wrapped around the columns or draped in a way that accentuates the column's shape and design.

Another option is to use uplighters or spotlights to illuminate the columns from the ground. This method creates a dramatic and striking effect, especially if you use colored gels to match your wedding colors. Battery-operated LED lights are also a great choice, as they are easy to work with and can be placed anywhere. These lights are often used in floral arrangements and centerpieces, but they can also be incorporated into your column design. Place them inside clear vases or containers, or wrap them around the base of the column for a modern look.

For a more natural and rustic feel, consider using candles. Place them at the base of the columns or use tall candle holders to add height and drama. Just be mindful of any venue restrictions and choose flame-less candles if needed. Finally, don't forget about the lighting options available for the capitals or tops of your columns. You can place a simple floral arrangement with fairy lights or a more elaborate display with hanging crystals and lights.

Column Construction

For the column construction, you will need some basic tools and materials. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Firstly, decide on the height and width of your columns. A standard size is around 8 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet in width, but you can adjust according to your venue and preference. Purchase PVC pipes in the desired diameter and length. You will need four pipes for each column, forming the structure. Cut the pipes to the desired height using a hand saw or power saw, ensuring they are all the same length.

Next, prepare the base. Cut a small piece of plywood to fit inside the pipe, creating a flat bottom. Attach this securely with glue or screws, ensuring it is level. This will provide stability and prevent the column from toppling over. Now, assemble the pipes. Join the four pipes together to form a square or rectangle, depending on your preferred shape. Use connectors or glue to join the pipes securely, ensuring they are flush and even.

If you wish to add lighting, this is where you should install it. Consider using LED strip lights or fairy lights. Wrap or attach the lights around the inside of the column, ensuring the wiring is hidden and secure. You can also add a small battery pack or plug to power the lights. Once the structure is complete, it's time to cover the PVC pipes. Use sheer fabric, tulle, or organza to create a soft, romantic look. Wrap and drape the fabric around the column, securing it at the top and bottom with glue, staples, or pins. Ensure the fabric is taut and smooth.

Finally, add any desired decorations or embellishments. You can attach flowers, ribbons, or other decorative elements to the fabric. Ensure any additions are secure and won't interfere with the stability of the column. And that's it! You now have beautiful, lighted wedding columns to frame your ceremony or reception space.

Adding Decorations

Fabric and Drapery:

• Wrap the columns with elegant fabric such as sheer organza, chiffon, or tulle. Drape the fabric loosely around the column, allowing it to flow gracefully to the floor. Secure the fabric at the top and bottom with discreet pins or fabric glue to avoid damaging the column structure.
• Experiment with different colors and textures of fabric to achieve your desired look. For instance, use ivory chiffon with a subtle shimmer or opt for a bold pop of color with a rich velvet drape.

Floral Arrangements:

• Fresh flowers add a romantic and natural touch to the columns. Attach floral foam to the top of each column, then secure bouquets of flowers, creating a beautiful floral topper. Choose blooms that complement your wedding color palette and theme, such as classic roses, delicate peonies, or tropical orchids.
• For a more cost-effective option, consider high-quality artificial flowers, which can be just as visually appealing and require less maintenance.

Greenery and Vines:

• Introduce an organic and whimsical element by incorporating greenery and vines into your column decorations. Drape lush garlands of eucalyptus, ivy, or vine around the columns, allowing the greenery to cascade down gracefully. Secure the greenery in place with floral wire or clear elastic bands.
• For a more dramatic effect, consider using hanging amaranthus or Spanish moss to create a unique and dreamy atmosphere.

Lighting Enhancements:

• Enhance the lighting effects by incorporating string lights or fairy lights into your fabric drapery. Intertwine the lights with the fabric to create a magical, glowing effect. Opt for warm white lights for a cozy ambiance or colorful fairy lights to match your wedding colors.
• Alternatively, place a tall, slender candle lantern on top of each column, housing a flameless candle. This adds a romantic and elegant touch, especially for evening receptions.

Personalized Touches:

• Incorporate personalized elements that reflect your wedding theme or your interests as a couple. For example, if you're having a beach-themed wedding, adorn the columns with seashells, starfish, and delicate netting. For a rustic wedding, try wrapping the columns with burlap and lace, accented with dried flowers or wheat stalks.
• Consider adding monogram letters or your wedding date as decorative accents on the columns for a truly personalized touch.

Remember, when adding decorations, it's essential to consider the overall balance and stability of the columns. Ensure that any added weight is evenly distributed and secured safely to prevent accidents. The decorations should enhance the beauty of your wedding ceremony or reception space while also ensuring the safety and comfort of your guests.

Safety Considerations

Ensure that all electrical connections are secure and correctly insulated. Use a qualified electrician to oversee this aspect if you are unsure. The last thing you want is exposed wiring that could cause a shock or short circuit, especially in an outdoor setting with potential moisture. Take extra care if you are using extension cords to power the lights; these should be appropriately routed and taped down to prevent trip hazards for guests.

Consider the stability of the columns, especially if they are tall or will be placed in a windy area. Weighing down the bases or securing them to the ground or a stable structure is crucial to prevent toppling. Sandbags, weights, or sturdy guy ropes can be used for this purpose, ensuring they are well-disguised and do not detract from the aesthetics.

Use appropriate lighting that is designed for outdoor use and complies with safety standards. Check the IP rating of the lights to ensure they are suitable for the environment, especially if they will be exposed to moisture. Avoid using lights with hot bulbs that could pose a fire risk, and opt for LED lights that remain cool and are energy-efficient.

Never leave lit candles unattended, and ensure they are securely placed within the columns to prevent them from being knocked over. Use appropriate candleholders and consider the placement of the columns to avoid any flammable decorations or fabrics catching alight. If possible, opt for battery-operated LED candles, which provide a similar ambiance without the naked flame.

Be mindful of the placement of the columns to ensure they do not obstruct emergency exits or create a hazard in the event of an evacuation. Keep a clear path around the columns and ensure that any decorations or draping do not pose a trip hazard. If using fabric, ensure it is flame-retardant to minimize the risk of fire spreading.

By carefully considering these safety aspects, you can ensure that your DIY lighted wedding columns enhance the beauty and ambiance of your special day without compromising the well-being of your guests and venue. It is always beneficial to seek advice from professionals and adapt these safety considerations to your specific column design and venue characteristics.

Frequently asked questions