Creating Magical Wedding Moments With Flying Lanterns

Flying lanterns are a gorgeous and fun addition to any wedding celebration. They are a great way to include your guests in your special day and create memorable moments. Whether you opt for a group release or an intimate moment with your partner, flying lanterns can be customised and decorated to suit your wedding theme. Making your own flying lanterns is a unique and creative idea, but it's important to prioritise safety and check that sky lanterns are legal in your area.

Flying Lanterns for Weddings

Choosing the right paper

When it comes to choosing the right paper for your flying lanterns, there are a few key factors to consider. The type of paper you choose will depend on the desired look and functionality of your lanterns. Here are some options to consider:

Wax Paper: Wax paper is a popular choice for making sky lanterns due to its lightweight and translucent properties. It allows light to shine through, creating a soft and romantic ambiance. Wax paper is also easy to work with and can be glued together to form the cylinder shape of the lantern.

Kite Paper or Butter Paper: If you're looking for an alternative to wax paper, kite paper or butter paper can be used. These papers have similar characteristics to wax paper and will allow your lanterns to glow beautifully.

Tissue Paper: Tissue paper is another option for your flying lanterns, especially if you want to add a pop of color. It comes in various colors, allowing you to create lanterns that match your wedding color palette. When using tissue paper, it's important to treat it with a fireproofing product to ensure it doesn't catch fire.

Fireproofing: Regardless of the type of paper you choose, it's essential to consider fire safety. Some papers, like tissue paper, may require additional treatment with a fireproofing product to prevent them from igniting. Make sure to follow the instructions on the product carefully and allow the paper to dry completely before assembling your lanterns.

Weight: The weight of the paper is another crucial factor. The paper should be lightweight enough to allow the lantern to fly. Thicker or heavier papers may weigh down the lantern, affecting its ability to lift off and soar into the sky.

Durability: Choose a paper that is durable enough to withstand the heat of the flame and the outdoor conditions on your wedding day. You don't want the paper to tear or disintegrate easily, especially if there is a slight breeze.

Decorations: If you plan to decorate your lanterns with paint, markers, or stickers, ensure that the paper can handle these additions without tearing or becoming too heavy. Test out your decorations on a small piece of the paper first to see how it reacts.

By considering these factors, you can choose the right paper for your flying lanterns, ensuring they are both functional and aesthetically pleasing for your wedding celebration.

Preparing the fuel

To prepare the fuel for your sky lanterns, you will need unscented candle wax, a pan, a stove, a fork, a strip of cloth, and some tongs.

First, place a medium-sized, unscented candle in a saucepan and put it on the stove over medium-low heat. Let the candle melt completely, stirring the wax every couple of minutes. Once the wax is melted, fish out the wick with a fork and throw it away.

Next, dip a strip of cloth into the melted wax. The strip of cloth should be around 1 foot (0.30 m) long and 1-2 inches (2.5-5.1 cm) wide. Any kind of cloth fabric will work. Once the cloth is covered in wax (this should take about a minute), use a pair of tongs to lift it out of the pan. Let the cloth dry for about 2 minutes.

Finally, turn your sky lantern upside down so that the wire frame is facing up. Wrap the wax-covered cloth around the middle of the wire frame and tie several knots. Keep tying knots until the whole strip is bundled up in the centre of the frame and the ends are no longer sticking out.

Alternatively, you can dip a paper towel square into the wax, let it dry, and then poke a hole through the square. You can then tie it to the centre of the wire frame with a piece of string.

Building the frame

Materials:

• Thin wire
• Metal wire ring (approximately 12" in diameter)
• Tissue paper or wax paper
• Glue
• String or twine
• Scissors

Steps:

• Measure and cut a length of thin wire: Double the length of the cylinder's open end to find the circumference. Cut a piece of wire that is about 2 inches (5.1 cm) longer than the circumference.
• Form a ring: Bend the wire into a ring shape, overlapping the ends by 1 inch (2.5 cm). Twist the ends together securely.
• Attach perpendicular strips: Cut two lengths of wire that span the diameter of the ring, with a little extra. Twist one end of each length to any point on the ring, and wrap the other ends on the opposite side so they cross in the centre. These strips will support the fuel source.
• Prepare the tissue paper: Cut two pieces of tissue paper slightly larger than the wire ring. You can also use wax paper, which is ideal due to its lightweight and translucent properties.
• Attach tissue paper to the ring: Apply glue to the edge folds of the tissue paper and carefully wrap it around the wire ring. Ensure the tissue paper is secure and allow it to dry.
• Assemble the cylinder: Repeat the previous step with two more pieces of tissue paper and another wire ring. Once both rings are covered, glue the ends of the tissue paper together to create a cylinder. You can use Kraft paper tape to secure the ends.
• Add string for support: Attach two pieces of string in the form of a cross on each open end of the cylinder. Secure them with Kraft paper tape.

Once you have completed these steps, your lantern frame should be sturdy and ready for the next steps, which include preparing the fuel and lighting your lantern. Remember to always practice fire safety and check if sky lanterns are legal in your area before proceeding.

Decorating the lanterns

Choose a Colour Scheme

Select a colour or colours that complement your wedding theme. Traditional white lanterns are always elegant, but you can also choose coloured lanterns to add a pop of colour to your decor. Consider using the bride and groom's favourite colours, or colours that match the wedding party's attire.

Add Personalised Messages

Encourage your guests to write their own well-wishes, messages, or quotes on the lanterns. This can be done with paint, markers, or stickers. It adds a heartfelt touch to the decorations and involves your guests in the celebration.

Incorporate Flowers

Flowers are a beautiful addition to any wedding, and they can be used to decorate your lanterns as well. Fill the lanterns with fresh flowers during the day for a romantic and elegant look. You can choose flowers that match your bouquet or the centrepieces to create a cohesive look.

Hang Lanterns from Shepherd's Hooks

Shepherd's hooks are a great way to display your lanterns. Place them along the aisle, at the entrance, or around the venue to create a whimsical and enchanting atmosphere. You can also hang the lanterns from trees or ceilings if your venue allows it.

Use Lanterns as Centrepieces

Lanterns can also be used as centrepieces on the reception tables. Place a lit lantern in the centre of each table, surrounded by flowers or other decorations. This adds a soft glow to the tables and creates a romantic ambiance for your guests.

Decorate the Steps and Windowsills

If your venue has steps or windowsills, decorate them with lanterns to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Line the lanterns up along the steps or place them on the windowsills to add a touch of light and elegance to the space.

No matter how you choose to decorate your flying lanterns, they are sure to add a magical touch to your wedding celebration. Involve your bridal party and guests in the process to make it even more memorable!

Launching the lanterns

Launching sky lanterns at weddings has become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to media outlets and social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. They are a great way to include your guests in the celebration and create lasting memories.

Choose the Right Location:

• Select a large, open area free of vegetation, such as a field or a spacious outdoor venue.
• Ensure the area is safe and legal for sky lanterns. Avoid launching near trees, power lines, or tall buildings.
• Check local fire department regulations and restrictions on sky lanterns in your area.

Prepare the Lanterns:

• If you are making your own sky lanterns, follow the steps outlined in the previous response for constructing the paper shell, building the frame, and preparing the fuel.
• Alternatively, purchase ready-made sky lanterns in various colours and styles.
• Decorate the sky lanterns with your guests. Provide paint, stickers, or markers to allow guests to write well-wishes and personalised messages on the lanterns.

Group Release or Intimate Moment:

• Decide whether you want to release the lanterns as a couple or involve all your guests in a group release.
• For a group release, pair guests up and provide each pair with a lantern to light and release together. This creates a stunning visual effect and keeps costs reasonable.
• For a more intimate moment, the bride and groom can release a single lantern together or include the bridal party for a handful of releases.

Lighting and Launching:

• Wait for the right weather conditions. Avoid windy or rainy days, as these can affect the lanterns' flight and safety.
• Use a lighter to ignite the fuel source inside the lantern. Hold the lantern at arm's length and light the wax-covered cloth or fuel source.
• Allow the lantern to fill with hot air, which will make it float upward.
• Once you feel the lantern being pulled upward, gently release it and watch it soar into the sky.

Remember to practice proper fire safety and always have a fire extinguisher nearby in case of any issues. Enjoy this magical moment with your loved ones as you release the lanterns and celebrate your special day!

Frequently asked questions