Create Magical Wedding Lantern Centerpieces

Lanterns are a versatile and timeless decorative item that can be used to create a romantic and elegant atmosphere at weddings. They come in different shapes, sizes, styles, and colours, making it easy to find the perfect lantern that matches the wedding theme and colour palette. Lanterns can be used in a variety of ways, such as hanging from the ceiling, placed on tables, or used as aisle markers. They can also be filled with flowers, candles, or fairy lights to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. In this article, we will explore different ideas and tips for creating lantern centrepieces for weddings.

Choosing the right lanterns

• Consider the size of the lantern in relation to the size of the table. You want to ensure that the lantern is proportional to the table and doesn't overwhelm the space.
• Think about the overall style of your wedding. If you're having a rustic wedding, for example, wooden or metal lanterns with a distressed finish might be a good choice. For a modern wedding, sleek and minimalist lanterns in metallic tones could be more suitable.
• Decide on the type of candle you want to use. Traditional wax candles, LED candles and flameless candles are all popular options. If you're using real candles, consider the colour and size that will best fit the lantern and your overall theme.
• Determine whether you want to use flowers in your centrepiece. Flowers can be placed inside or around the lantern to add a touch of colour and elegance. If you're using flowers inside the lantern, consider the size and type of flowers that will fit well without blocking the light.
• Don't be afraid to mix and match. Combining different styles and sizes of lanterns can create a unique and eclectic look. You can also mix and match with other table décor, such as flowers, candles and table numbers.
• Personalise your lanterns by adding photos, monograms or quotes that are meaningful to you and your partner. This will make your centrepieces even more special and memorable.
• If your venue has restrictions on open flames, opt for LED candles instead of real ones. This will ensure your centrepieces are both beautiful and safe.
• Consider the venue and the overall ambiance you want to create. For example, hanging lanterns from trees or ceilings can add a whimsical touch to an outdoor wedding, while elegant white lanterns can enhance a romantic indoor setting.
• Think about the colour palette of your wedding and choose lanterns that complement or contrast with your chosen colours. For example, white lanterns can stand out against a darker background, while gold lanterns can add a touch of glamour.
• Finally, don't forget to have fun and be creative! Lantern centrepieces are a great way to showcase your personal style and add a magical touch to your wedding reception.

Using candles

Candles are a classic and romantic way to light up your wedding. They can be used in a variety of ways, from centrepieces to bouquets and table decorations, and are an excellent way to set the mood for a romantic dinner or a sweet after-party.

Greenery-Draped Lanterns with Floral Accents

Place a candle inside a glass-encased lantern and decorate it with arching greenery and romantic roses. This combination will create a romantic and elegant atmosphere for your wedding tables.

Elegant Tapers with Repurposed Stemware

Add height to your wedding tables by using stemmed glassware and delicate tapered candles. You can customise the design with any colour scheme to fit your wedding theme.

Dusty Rose & Blush Wreath with Votives

Create a charming and romantic tablescape with votive candles of varying heights encircled by a greenery and floral wreath. This classic and beautiful arrangement fills the table and leaves space for conversation during the reception.

Rustic Simplicity with Bud Vase Accents

For a warm and inviting atmosphere, opt for minimalist bud vases filled with flowers and flanked by pillar candles. This simple yet elegant centrepiece will create a cosy and elegant ambiance.

Dramatic Elegance in Dusty Blue & Navy

Combine the height of a candelabra with an abundance of elegant flowers. While this arrangement may look intricate and expensive, it can be recreated using designer flower boxes.

Vineyard-Inspired Wine Bottle Decor

Transform wine or champagne bottles into elegant candle centrepieces. Remove any labels from the bottles and clean off any residue with vinegar. Drill a small hole in the bottle, just big enough to fit the wire of fairy lights or battery-operated fairy lights. Thread the lights through the hole and arrange the bottles on a table or shelf.

Mini Pumpkin Lanterns

Mini pumpkins are a great idea for a fall wedding. Hollow out the pumpkins and place a small candle or LED light inside to brighten them up. Decorate the outside with flowers, paint, markers, glitter, or anything else that suits your style.

Garden Wedding Lanterns

For a garden wedding, place lanterns in the middle of the tables, hang them from trees, or use them to line the aisle. Decorate the lanterns with faux flowers and candles, or real flowers with a water source to keep them fresh.

Using flowers

Flowers are a beautiful addition to any wedding lantern centerpiece. Whether you're aiming for a rustic, elegant, or whimsical look, here are some ideas to consider:

Elegant Gold Lanterns Surrounded by Flowers

Fresh roses and hydrangeas encircling modern gold lanterns create a stunning tablescape. This arrangement ensures that the centerpiece doesn't have a "front" or "back," allowing guests to admire its beauty from all angles.

Wood Table with Elegant Lanterns and Flowers

Lanterns don't have to be the sole element in your centerpieces. Combine flower arrangements and lanterns along the length of wooden reception tables for a charming display.

Copper Lantern Centerpiece with Flowers

A lush burst of flowers surrounding a duo of copper lanterns is a perfect choice for an autumn wedding. The juxtaposition between the dark copper and soft white flowers adds a whimsical touch.

Wood Lantern Centerpiece Filled with Flowers

Instead of candles, consider filling your wood lanterns with a cascade of fresh flowers. This idea brings a unique twist to your centerpieces while incorporating a touch of nature.

Gold Lantern Surrounded by Pink Roses

Sometimes, a pared-down concept can still make a statement. A small gold lantern surrounded by fresh pink roses creates a harmonious and romantic centerpiece.

Top Tips:

• Work with a wedding florist to ensure your flower choices align with your vision.
• Flowers can be placed inside the lanterns or used to surround them, creating a frame of florals.
• Consider using flowers that match your wedding color palette to tie the whole event together.

Hanging lanterns

Create a Hanging Stand

You can create a hanging lantern stand by using an ornate oval-shaped object wrapped in flowers and greenery. For example, Sarah Khan Event Styling designed a piece using an ornate oval-shaped lantern wrapped in eucalyptus and flowers in purple tones. Just make sure that the piece isn't obstructing your guests' view.

Suspend from Above

You can also suspend lanterns from above by hanging them from the ceiling along with greenery. This creates an attention-grabbing floating centerpiece that makes a large room feel more intimate and animated. Combine different kinds of lanterns in silver and gold with the greenery to add variety to your decor.

Hang with Rope or Wire

If you want to hang your lanterns, consider using a thick rope handle or wire across the top. You can also insert wire through pre-drilled holes on opposite cross supports and then wrap it around itself. This method ensures safety, especially if you plan to use real candles.

Mix Hanging and Table Lanterns

Combine hanging lanterns with table lanterns to create a cohesive look. For example, you can hang disco balls above the table while having gold lanterns and small gold candle holders on the table itself. This combination will create a luxurious and elegant atmosphere for your wedding reception.

DIY Wood Lanterns

If you're crafty, you can even make your own wood lanterns for a rustic and charming look. Jaime Costiglio provides a simple DIY project that involves constructing wooden lanterns of varying heights and widths using wood dowels, a nailer, and wood glue. You can then finish them with stain or paint to match your wedding colour palette.

DIY lanterns

Firstly, you'll need to decide on the type of lantern you want to use. Lanterns come in a variety of shapes, sizes, colours and materials, so you can choose an option that fits your wedding theme and colour palette. Popular choices for centrepieces include wooden, metal, glass and vintage-style lanterns. Consider the size of your tables and the overall style of your wedding when selecting your lanterns—medium-sized lanterns tend to be the most popular, but small or large lanterns can also work well.

Next, you'll want to think about how to decorate your lanterns. A classic way to embellish a lantern is to place candles inside and decorate the outside with flowers. You can also fill your lanterns with flowers, fairy lights, or other on-theme objects and figurines. If you're using flowers, you can place them inside the lantern or arrange them around the base. Ribbons, monograms and quotes are also great ways to add a personal touch.

If you're feeling creative, you can paint your lanterns to match your wedding colour palette. White lanterns are a popular choice, as they stand out against a darker background and are easy to find. You can also use gold or silver lanterns to add a touch of elegance or modernity to your tablescape.

Finally, decide how you want to display your lanterns. Lanterns can be placed on tables, hung from trees or ceilings, or used as aisle markers. For a unique look, create a hanging stand with an ornate lantern surrounded by flowers and greenery. If you're having an outdoor wedding, lanterns can be a beautiful way to light up your space and create a romantic atmosphere.

With these simple steps, you can create DIY lantern centrepieces that will wow your guests and add a special touch to your wedding day.

Frequently asked questions