Picture Decorating Ideas With Black Lanterns for Receptions

Arrange black lanterns along a walkway to guide guests.

Lanterns are a novel wedding decoration that can fulfill myriad roles at the reception from the purely decorative to symbolic. Positioning lanterns so that they look well-placed and appropriate in photographs is a wise choice since photographers roam the event documenting each moment. The contrast of a venue with dim lighting and lanterns provides a visual quality that is striking even in black-and-white photographs and using black lanterns only intensifies the contrast. You can employ black lanterns to dramatic heights with various arrangements.

Instructions

1. Arrange the lanterns in a single row, or two parallel rows, to mark a path. This is an ideal way to guide guests through areas with minimal lighting. Place the rows of lanterns on the ground to light the path from below. Alternatively, hang the lanterns from trees or posts to light pathways from above. The lighted path also makes a striking feature in photographs, demonstrating direction and movement to the viewer.

2. Mark areas on the ground with arranged lanterns. You may not have pathways to denote with lanterns, but you can create a lighted circle in which guests should pose for photos or the married couple stands for a significant moment during the reception. Create a decorative ground display with lanterns by spelling the couple's initials or outlining a large heart.

3. Hang black lanterns from the ceiling. Hang several large lanterns to add drama and dim light to the venue or create a dropped ceiling effect by hanging many lanterns close together. Since the lanterns are black, their light should cast a subdued but warm glow that is striking in photos.

4. Arrange a wall of lanterns to create a dramatic backdrop for select parts of the venue. Arriving guests can take pictures in front of the lantern wall, or you can draw attention to the wedding cake by placing it in front of a bank of lanterns.

5. Place black lanterns throughout table settings to create sharp contrasts of dark and light throughout the entire venue. Set the lanterns on the table directly to cast a light on the surface on the setting, or elevate the lanterns with a curved fixture that sits on the table and supports the lantern six to 12 inches above the tabletop.

6. Release black wish lanterns at the end of the reception. Few things achieve as dramatic a photo as a nighttime, wish lantern release. Not only does it incorporate black lanterns and memorable photography, releasing wish lanterns is also a stirring tribute to the celebrated couple as they embark on their new life.