Ideas for Wedding Reception Decor

There are many ways to decorate a wedding reception.

Decorating for a wedding reception can be overwhelming. There are many aspects of decorating that are necessary, and the kind of decorating necessary varies with the venue for the reception and the kind of reception at the wedding. To choose the best decorations, consider the venue and the theme and style of the wedding.

Lighting

How the reception area is lit can transform the feel of the reception. How much lighting you need will vary on the location of the wedding and the time of day. Outdoors, more lighting is necessary if the reception will go into the night. Candles inside of cups are one of the most romantic lighting styles, both indoors and out. Outdoors battery-operated lanterns can illuminate without causing trouble. Indoors, keep lighting soft at night and use as much natural lighting as possible during the day.

Tables

Table decorations are very important at wedding receptions. The guests will spend the majority of their time at tables. Place long tablecloths over serving tables. Use shorter cloths on tables used for seating. Place a contrasting runner matching the wedding colors over the base cloths for a simple elegance. Use centerpieces based on the theme of the wedding. Floral arrangements and food arrangements work well for centerpieces, as well as candles and colored stones. Use a matched set of dishes for the table for a cohesive look.

Flowers

The flowers used in the reception area should look similar to those used in the ceremony. Choose colors that fit with the main wedding colors. A small arrangement on each table provides an elegant touch. You can also place flower arrangements in urns around the reception area and on serving tables for additional decoration. Use natural plants, such as greenery and twigs for an earthier decorative style for the reception room. Hot-house flowers add elegance, and wildflowers suggest relaxed beauty.

Miscellaneous Decor

There are a few other items you can use in the reception area for decoration. Outdoors, consider placing battery-operated candles in trees for a soft glow. Use tents to house the reception seating and stage or dance floor. Indoors, drape fabric along the walls and from the ceiling for a dream-like effect. Provide an arch or other beautiful backdrop for taking pictures of guests and family members. Decorate the gift table with flowers or wedding-themed figurines.

References

• Wedding Flowers and Reception Ideas: Reception Ideas
• The Knot: Unique Wedding Reception Ideas