Planning a Wedding?
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If you’ve started your wedding planning journey already, you might have noticed that the wedding venue market is crowded. So many people are opening their own wedding venue, because, yes, it is a profitable business.
However, not every venue owner has a keen eye for “the wedding factor” and will offer an unappealing wedding venue or space at a lower price simply to make an income. Some venue options and function halls need serious wedding TLC and some more than others…
Beautiful, breathtaking venues are naturally more expensive, and even more so if they are already popular.
Why?
Well for one, they know every bride wants to get married there, so they always have clients. And two, they are fully booked, which means that they can now ask any price they want.
But what if you have found the best-located venue, but sadly they didn’t make any effort to turn it into a beautiful wedding venue?
It is up to you to add your own personal style to change this venue’s appearance and transform it into a magical space for your big day. Read on for some tips on how to turn this ugly duckling into a breathtaking one!
How to Transform an Unappealing Wedding Venue
What makes a wedding venue beautiful?
Before you go on your venue-scouting adventure, you need to know what you are looking for, especially if you don’t have an eye for a pretty wedding venue.
Pro tip: The wedding venue workbook can help you map out exactly what you want, plan your venue budget, and compare your favorite venues.
Know this: Nearly any space can be transformed into a perfect venue if you already know what style you’re going for. Also, one venue might be beautiful to one bride, and unappealing to the next.
If you’re specifically looking for a rustic farm-style venue, then you should locate a venue with a suitable setup. If it’s the ideal location but lacks certain elements, you can always make a plan to hire those things for your wedding day.
The same goes for any other wedding style you wish to use. However, take note of how much you’ll have to change at a venue before diving in because, in the end; it might become more expensive than just actually getting that dream venue. For example, if your style is boho and outdoorsy, it is better to book a rustic farm-style venue than a Tuscan or modern-style venue.
Let’s dive right into some of the ways you can transform your venue!
1. Draping
We’re not talking about the brightly colored draping in the school hall when you had your prom night.
We’re talking about the magical drapery of white and cream tulle, chiffon, and sheer voile… Yes, those words actually exist in the fantastic world of fabrics! 🙂
Fabric used for draping at weddings
There are a few fabrics to choose from, and you also have to make sure that the length is correct. Measuring for draping is key to getting the look you want.
- Tulle – stiffer than other fabrics, so it’s best to use this for the cake table or bridal table.
- Chiffon, Voile, and Satin – these are all better suited for ceiling and wall draping. It’s much more flowy, and softer to use and they come in various colors.
If you’re not up for the task of draping, you can hire a company or team that specializes in draping.
Why and where to use draping?
The main reasons to use draping at your wedding are to:
- cover up ugly walls and unsightly things at a wedding venue
- give the venue a softer look and feel
- make the venue look more elegant
- make the atmosphere and look of your wedding more romantic
- use any wedding style you want – because full-on draping is like a blank canvas! You can then use any theme, style, and color scheme for your wedding because the venue doesn’t have a certain style anymore.
2. Decor Elements
Wedding decor is the one thing you can use to make the wedding “look and feel” come together. You can use decor elements in bright colors to distract from the dull walls or add some plants in smaller spaces, along with earthy elements to bring the outdoors inside and make the venue feel more toned down – that’s the beauty of nature! Small details here and there make all the difference.
When working on your wedding style, theme, and color scheme, think about what decor element or two you can include to make it all come together. Also, think about where you will be able to place all of your decor items – there will be additional tables in your reception area for things like the wedding cake and
For example, if you’re going for a vintage theme, maybe include a few strings of pearls in your centerpieces, or a few old suitcases at the gift table.
With a boho wedding theme, you can include a few natural elements such as feathers and dried flowers at your wedding reception.
For a rustic farm wedding in a barn, throw in some burlap bows, lace runners, cowboy boots, and hay bales, and you’re golden!
Pinterest is full of ideas for weddings, so if you already know what your style is, go ahead and search for decor, styles, elements, colors, and so on.
Pro tip: Planning out your decor can become overwhelming if you aren’t sure what to do to make your venue magical. Many venues have their own in-house decor which you can use to style your wedding, so be sure to look for venues with this option.
Bonus Tip: A good way to organize your venue expenses, decor, party rentals, and other finer details is by using the printable wedding venue workbook to get things done.
3. Flowers
Flowers, even artificial ones, are synonymous with beautiful weddings. This is the ultimate go-to wedding element that you can really play around with to make your venue beautiful.
Flowers can be added anywhere and everywhere, provided that you have a budget for it.
Flowers are a big expense in planning a wedding. If you haven’t set up your wedding budget for flowers yet, consider using the wedding planner bundle to help you set up and manage your entire wedding budget correctly as well as decor and flower planning.
Even paper flowers can be used to make a venue more attractive. You can place giant paper flowers outside in the gardens or the lawn. Smaller flowers can be used inside and as a backdrop for your guests to take photos in front of. YouTube tutorials are here for the rescue, and you can easily find how-to videos for making paper flowers.
Pro tip: Extra large floral arrangements or floral wall installations can be used to cover up unappealing walls or outdated wallpaper.
4. Backdrops
Any backdrop, big or small, can be used to cover up an eyesore at the venue or to simply just bring more pizzazz to your dream wedding.
A backdrop can also be used as a photo booth background or prop for wedding guests to take selfies in front of.
You can also use a backdrop behind the bridal table, or all around the venue walls. The great advantage is that you can then incorporate nearly any theme or style into your wedding.
If you want to create a backdrop, you can use nearly anything. From flowers, balloons, and greenery, to giant hoops, draping, and arches. Add some sparkle by including string lights to your backdrops.
Pro tip: You can add a backdrop or arch to your wedding ceremony and move it to the reception area later to take more photos at.
5. Lighting
There is simply nothing more romantic and whimsical than the perfect lighting at a wedding. Soft lighting creates a romantic atmosphere that you only ever experience on wedding evenings.
The best methods to bring about this type of lighting are by including lots of candles in your decor and by bringing in some string lights or fairy lights.
Candles can be added nearly anywhere at both your reception and ceremony venues. Use it in floral arrangements, candelabra, and on tables. You can also add candles in lanterns and place them either inside or outside along paths.
Fairy lights can be strung along beams, walls, and outside in trees. You can also include them in your draping.
Also, when looking at lighting, and if your venue (and budget) allows it, some venues’ lighting can be replaced by chandeliers 🙂
Whether you’re planning an intimate backyard wedding or a grand celebration, the right lights can set the perfect mood and elevate every detail of your décor. Let’s dive into some brilliant lighting ideas that focus on fairy lights, string lights, light bars, and sound-activated lights, along with other inspiring suggestions to bring your dream wedding to life.
Fairy Lights
Fairy lights are the epitome of romance and enchantment. Their soft, twinkling glow can instantly make any venue feel magical. Hang them draped across trees, along the edges of the ceiling, or even intertwined with floral arrangements.
For a backyard wedding, imagine the delight of your guests as they enter a space adorned with delicate fairy lights that perfectly capture the essence of your love story. These lights can transform a plain outdoor area into a whimsical wonderland, setting the stage for a night full of magic and memories.
String Lights
String lights are a timeless way to add warmth and sophistication to your venue. They’re incredibly versatile—whether you drape them overhead to mimic a starry sky or use them to highlight architectural features, string lights provide a subtle yet effective glow.
For venues that may initially seem uninviting, string lights can be the perfect solution to create depth and ambiance. Picture a serene backyard wedding where string lights gently illuminate the scene, enhancing every shared smile and tender moment of your unfolding love story.
Light Bars
If you’re looking to infuse a touch of modernity into your wedding décor, light bars are an excellent choice. These sleek, linear fixtures can be used to create dynamic accents throughout your venue. Position a light bar near the dance floor, behind the head table, or as a backdrop for the cake to introduce bold pops of color and movement.
The versatility of light bars allows you to tailor the lighting to match the rhythm of your event, making them an ideal addition to any contemporary wedding setting—even in a venue that might seem lackluster at first glance.
Sound-Activated Lights
Imagine lights that pulse, change color, and dance in sync with the music—sound-activated lights can do just that!
These lights add a playful, interactive element to your wedding, transforming any space into a dynamic celebration area. Perfect for energizing a dull corner of your venue, sound-activated lights can help create an immersive atmosphere where every beat of the music mirrors the heartbeat of your love story.
They’re especially effective on the dance floor, ensuring that your guests are always in the groove, whether you’re celebrating under the stars at a backyard wedding or in a sophisticated indoor setting.
Other Lighting Suggestions
- Mason Jar Candles: Embrace a rustic, DIY charm by using mason jars as candle holders. Fill them with fairy lights or a small candle to create clusters of soft, intimate light. This touch works beautifully for a backyard wedding, adding a nostalgic element to your décor that tells a unique part of your love story.
- LED Uplights: Strategically placed LED uplights can wash your walls or trees with rich colors, creating dramatic backdrops that enhance the overall ambiance.
- Lanterns and Chandeliers: Incorporate hanging lanterns or even chandeliers for a vintage or elegant twist. These pieces add character and serve as striking focal points in otherwise plain spaces.
- Laser Projections: For a modern and innovative touch, consider laser projections. They can create patterns or even custom designs that reflect personal details of your love story, turning your venue into a canvas of light and color.
Lighting Tips
- Plan Your Layers: Combine different types of lighting to create depth. A mix of ambient, accent, and task lighting will not only illuminate the space but also add visual interest.
- Test the Setup: Always test your lighting setup before the big day. Walk through the venue with your planner or decorator to see how the lights interact with the surroundings.
- Consider the Time of Day: Lighting requirements can vary greatly between a daytime backyard wedding and an evening event. Adjust your lighting plan accordingly to maintain a warm, inviting atmosphere at all times.
- Personalize Your Touches: Your wedding is a celebration of your unique love story. Use lighting to highlight personal elements—like a special corner decorated with mason jars filled with tiny lights—to make the venue truly yours.
6. Furniture
Furniture rentals for both indoors if there is space, and outside is an ingenious way to fill up space where other elements simply won’t work. Your guests will love to lounge about as they enjoy the special day with you.
You can get additional furniture such as couches and ottomans for the outside areas, and make it even more special by adding free-standing draping around the furniture to create “booths” or “lounges”.
Don’t make it too private, though! You still want your wedding guests to dance and mingle with each other to get the event going.
7. Structures
If you want to go even bolder and make your venue more appealing, consider adding larger structures outside.
You can hire a tent-and-pole structure to create your reception venue. Or, you can use a big marquee tent as a ceremony hall or for your reception (or both!).
Some venues have giant structures in place, such as pergolas, domes, or giant arches. You can turn this into a feature by dressing it up with flowers, greenery, draping, and string lights. Let your photographer include this feature in your wedding photos.
Also Read: 30+ Acrylic wedding ideas for your big day
8. Features
Additional features can also be used to spice up an unappealing wedding venue.
However, you should definitely have a look at your budget first before deciding on including this for your wedding day.
Features can include things like ice sculptures, water features, potted plants, and things like arches and floral walls.
Pro tip: If you have too much space to fill, especially at the wedding reception, consider expanding the dance floor so that you don’t have to decorate every nook and cranny or bring in large structures or furniture.
Planning a Wedding?
Save time and effort by grabbing our Wedding Planner Bundle! With over 500+ pages to choose from + edit, we made sure to not leave anything out, giving you peace of mind!
by Tanya Guilfoyle
Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, Tanya has been an active contributor and planner in the wedding industry since 2016. When not writing useful content for brides and wedding professionals, she can be found designing templates for her Etsy shop, TWCprintables.
