Franklin Dean
Planning a wedding reception in an LDS church gym? It can be done! From draping and lighting to creative backdrops, there are many ways to transform a gym into a beautiful setting for your big day. Whether you're looking for elegant and refined or fun and inexpensive, with a bit of creativity and planning, you can turn an ordinary space into something memorable. Check with your church to see what decorations are allowed and get started on creating your dream wedding reception!
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Lighting | String lights, icicle lights, uplighting, paper lanterns, Edison bulbs, chandeliers, electric tea lights |
| Draping | Wall-to-wall, sheer fabric, hoop in the center, white satin ribbon, PVC pipes and fabric |
| Flooring | Removable flooring, area rugs, rented carpeting |
| Tables | Tablecloths, table runners, cylinder vases, floating candles, candy bar, food stations |
| Chairs | Metal chairs, covered with chair covers, sashes, swags |
| Dance floor | Space for a dance floor, balloons, live music |
| Restrictions | No real candles, no liquor |
| Other | Use of outdoor areas, photo booth, fake plants, lounge furniture |
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What You'll Learn
Use draping and lighting to hide basketball hoops
If you're looking to hide basketball hoops with draping and lighting, here are some ideas to achieve that elegant transformation for your wedding reception in an LDS church gym:
Draping Techniques
Start by using sheer fabric for wall-to-wall draping to soften the room. You can drape fabric from the ceiling, with a hoop in the center, and let it cascade towards the walls. If you can't remove the basketball hoops, consider draping fabric with a slit so it falls straight down over the backboard, with the hoop poking through. You can then tie vines, fairy lights, faux flowers, or coloured ribbons to the hoop so it blends in with your chosen theme.
Lighting Options
To enhance the draping and further distract from the basketball hoops, lighting can be a powerful tool. Avoid fluorescent lighting and opt for string lights, paper lanterns, Edison bulbs, or even chandeliers to create a romantic ambiance. Electric tea lights are a safer alternative to real candles, reducing potential fire hazards.
Additional Tips
If you're unable to drape the hoops, consider covering them with balloons, crepe paper, or ivy, and stringing white Christmas lights to create a magical backdrop. Alternatively, rent some eye-catching items, such as a backlit lattice or lights in tulle, to draw attention away from the hoops and towards elegant focal points.
Remember to check with your building coordinator about any rules regarding decorations and enjoy crafting a beautiful wedding reception in an LDS church gym!
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Create a dance floor and cover the floor with rugs
If you're planning on having a dance floor at your wedding reception, you'll need to ensure that there's enough space for one. It's important to consider the size of the gym and whether it can accommodate a dance floor along with seating and tables for guests.
To create a dance floor, you can consider using rugs to cover the gym floor. Rugs can add a unique and eclectic touch to your wedding reception. If you're concerned about the gym floor's appearance, rugs can be a creative solution. However, it's important to carefully lay out the rugs to prevent tripping hazards. You can consider using a large rug or overlapping smaller rugs and securing them with tape to minimize the risk of tripping.
Alternatively, you can build a dance floor using 2 x 2's and sheets of plywood, which can be more cost-effective than renting a dance floor. This option allows you to customize the size and design of the dance floor according to your preferences.
Once you've created the dance floor, you can enhance the space by adding decorations and lighting. String lights, lanterns, chandeliers, and uplighting can transform the gym's ceiling and create a romantic ambiance. You can also use fabric draping to soften the room and give it a more elegant feel.
Remember to plan the layout of the gym carefully, ensuring that there is enough space for the dance floor, tables, and guest movement. By combining creative flooring solutions with decorative elements, you can transform the LDS church gym into a beautiful and memorable wedding reception venue.
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Use high-quality linens and table settings
When transforming an LDS church gym into a wedding reception, it's important to pay attention to the little details that will elevate the space and create a memorable experience for your guests. One way to achieve this is by using high-quality linens and table settings. Here are some ideas to guide you through the process:
First, consider the overall aesthetic you wish to create. High-quality linens come in a variety of materials, colours, and textures, allowing you to set the desired tone for your reception. From elegant satin and velvet to sheer fabric and scuba wrinkle-free cloth, the right choice of material can instantly elevate the look and feel of your tables. You can even incorporate 3D elements, such as a tinsel overlay, see-through lace, or embroidery for a unique touch.
Colour plays a significant role in setting the mood and telling the story of your wedding. You can opt for traditional wedding colours like white or go bolder with reds, yellows, greens, blues, and purples. Consider coordinating the linens with other design elements, such as the bridesmaid dresses, floral arrangements, or even the details on your tableware. This cohesive approach will delight your guests and create a personalised atmosphere.
Next, think about the different types of linens you will need. Tablecloths, runners, napkins, and chair covers are essential elements of your table settings. Steamed tablecloths are a great way to ensure a polished, wrinkle-free look. Additionally, consider the size of your tables when selecting tablecloths to achieve a well-fitted, complete appearance. Don't be afraid to mix and match colours and patterns to add interest to your tables.
If you're working within a budget, renting linens can be a cost-effective option. However, be mindful of the quality when renting, as lower-priced linens may not always be of the desired standard. Disposable tableware and linens designed for frugal couples can also help you save money without compromising on elegance.
Finally, don't underestimate the impact of lighting on your linens. Consider using string lights, paper lanterns, Edison bulbs, or even chandeliers to create a magical atmosphere. Just remember to use electric tea lights instead of real candles to adhere to safety regulations.
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Use balloons, paper lanterns, and fairy lights
Balloons, paper lanterns, and fairy lights can be used in a variety of ways to transform an LDS church gym into a beautiful wedding reception venue. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Balloons
Balloons are a versatile and inexpensive way to add colour and fun to the reception hall. You can fill the balloons and let them hang from the walls and ceiling, creating a festive atmosphere. Make balloon "trees" by tying them together and placing them on the dance floor, weighting them down with potted plants. A balloon arch over the cake table will also make for a great backdrop. If there are basketball hoops in the gym, you can cover them with balloons. Create a bouquet of helium-filled latex balloons tied together with ribbons and a small weight, then drop it through the basketball hoop. The balloons will cover the backstop, and the ribbons will gracefully drape down, concealing the basket.
Paper Lanterns
Paper lanterns add a soft and elegant touch to the lighting. Hang them from the ceiling, mix them with string lights, or use them as centrepieces for a dreamy effect. If you want a DIY option, cover a hula hoop in white satin ribbon and attach the lanterns all around it. Then, hang the hoop from the ceiling at your desired height, creating a stunning light display with a halo effect.
Fairy Lights
Fairy lights or string lights can be used to transform the entire atmosphere of the gym. Drape them across the ceiling, intertwine them with tulle or fabric, and let them hang gracefully. You can also use fairy lights to outline doorways and corners, wrapping them around poles to hide them. For a magical touch, consider using "icicle" lights or mini lights intertwined with artificial plants. Remember to use electric tea lights instead of real candles to comply with LDS church rules.
By combining balloons, paper lanterns, and fairy lights in creative ways, you can achieve a beautiful and elegant transformation of the LDS church gym, making it a memorable wedding reception venue for you and your guests.
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Check with the church about alcohol and decorations
When it comes to transforming an LDS church gym into a wedding reception venue, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind regarding alcohol and decorations. Firstly, it is essential to check with the church about any rules and restrictions they may have in place. Some LDS churches may not allow alcohol consumption on their premises, so it is important to clarify this before planning to serve alcoholic beverages. Serving alcohol may be restricted, with some churches only permitting beer, wine, and champagne, while others may have a completely dry campus.
Regarding decorations, it is important to communicate with the church to understand any limitations or guidelines they may have. Some churches may have specific rules about what can and cannot be used to decorate the space. For example, the use of real candles may be prohibited due to fire hazards, so electric tea lights or other flameless alternatives may be required. It is also important to consider the extent of the decorations. While wall-to-wall draping, balloons, and lighting can transform the space, it may be costly and time-consuming, especially if the gym has prominent sports features like basketball hoops and court lines.
To create a romantic and elegant atmosphere, soft and sheer fabrics in neutral tones can be draped from the ceiling to the walls. Uplighting can be used to enhance the fabric draping and create a warm ambiance. String lights, paper lanterns, Edison bulbs, and even chandeliers can be incorporated to add a touch of magic to the space. However, it is important to be mindful of any fire safety rules and avoid open flames.
If the gym has a basketball court that detracts from the desired aesthetic, consider covering it with removable flooring or area rugs. Additionally, pay attention to the tables and chairs. Cover metal chairs with chair covers, and use tablecloths for all tables, including those for guest seating and food service. Choose elegant disposable tableware and table settings if your budget is limited. Overall, strike a balance between your chosen colour scheme and neutral tones to avoid an overwhelming colour palette.
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Frequently asked questions
Decorating a church gym for a wedding reception can be a fun and creative process. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Use draping and lighting to create a romantic and elegant atmosphere.
- Cover the basketball hoops and court lines with fabric or balloons to hide the gym equipment.
- Rent or buy a wedding tent to place over the ceiling, walls, and/or floor to create a clean canvas for your decorations.
- Use higher-quality linens and table settings to add an air of elegance.
There are several budget-friendly options to consider when decorating an LDS church gym for a wedding reception:
- Use string lights, paper lanterns, or Christmas lights to create a magical atmosphere.
- Rent or borrow furniture and decorations, such as chairs, tables, and backdrops.
- DIY your decorations using PVC pipes, fabric, and balloons.
- Utilize natural elements such as ivy or potted plants to create a rustic or outdoor-themed reception.
When planning a wedding reception in an LDS church gym, here are some important things to consider:
- Check with the church to see if there are any restrictions on decorations or alcohol service.
- Determine if you want to incorporate traditional wedding activities such as cake cutting, first dances, and speeches.
- Plan for enough space for a dance floor and food service.
- Consider using an outdoor area or pavilion if the church has one available.
