Whether you’re planning your special day in a big backyard, a favorite garden, a cliff by the sea, or a meadow in the pasture, you’ll find that a gazebo can simultaneously, and beautifully, combine the feel of an indoor and an outdoor wedding ceremony. It’s magic likely lies in its ability to provide an easy focal point against the often-vast background of breathtaking natural settings. Not only that, but, with the proper decoration, a gazebo in any destination can flow seamlessly from indoor to outdoor, and we’re here to tell you exactly how thanks to these ten simple and stunning suggestions.
For the “I Do’s”
1. Decorate Your Walkway with Garlands
From pine to flowers, garlands can take all different shapes and sizes, just like most venues. Some of our favorites include rose garlands, strands of lights, and long satin ribbons. Any will do for decorating your gazebo for your big day; it just depends on what you are after!
2. Illuminate the Evening with Lanterns
If you’re not planning on saying your “I do’s” during the day, then you will probably need a little assistance in lighting your way down the isle. By hanging lanterns from the eaves and the frame of your gazebo, you will be able to cast the perfect romantic glow on your evening, your marriage, and all of those supporting you.
3. Add a Touch of Flowers
While a seemingly obvious solution to the “how to decorate your gazebo” dilemma, flowers are classically beautiful and never a bad choice. There are millions of flowers and thus, endless options for your special day to be absolutely handpicked. Not to mention, it will add a lovely, natural fragrance.
(Source: Style Me Pretty)
4. Strew the Walls With Streamers
Although you may think these items are a bit childish at first, don’t count them out just yet. Draped from the rafters or wound around the pillars of your gazebo, streamers can add any amount of color you desire, from subtle to absolutely vibrant. It adds a little festivity and casual fund on your big day.
5. Drape your Drapery
Similarly, drapery can have a comparable effect to that of the streamers, with a twist of mystic romance. By hanging your drapery around the stairs and the front of the gazebo, and even gently along the sides, you can create a delicate and subtle frame for your stage on your big day. And the material may also effect the mood of your ceremony. Sheers add a soft warmth and lightness to the whole setting, while more heavy tapestries stand for elegance.
(Source: the knot)
6. Hang a Sparkling Crystal Chandelier
Having a chandelier hanging from the center of your gazebo definitely pulls forth more indoor inspiration for your outdoor day, adding yet another dimension of sophistication to such a seemingly simple structure. Plus, it can add tender lighting, a bit of sparkle, and even tangible warmth if you choose to use candles.
7. Use Different Tones of Lighting
While along the same line as lanterns, hanging strands of lights along your structure allows for a little more control. In fact, you can almost illuminate every inch of your gazebo’s exterior this way. From stringing them all across the roof to simply wrapping them around its pillars, you can add just the right amount of glow to your wedding stage.
These past seven decorative ideas are fabulous, but the fun doesn’t stop there. Any of these suggestions can be combined to work beautifully together. If you want flowers and strands of lights, go ahead! A garland and a chandelier will surely be wonderful as well. You can even toss a few streamers in with your drapes!
For the Reception
For the last three suggestions, however, we want to consider the “after the vows” functions of your gazebo as well. After all, it can be both a stage for your ceremony, but it can equally be a wonderful part of your day during the reception!
1. Create and Design a Gifting Area
Everyone needs one, so why not have a cute place for your packages instead of a back room in the church or a table somewhere off to the side of the party? After all, your guests spent a lot of time and effort choosing and wrapping your gifts, so might as well let them shine for a bit. It’s an easy spot to direct your guests and their gifts to, and you can decorate it with the same theme of your reception. Besides, prettily wrapped packages are almost decorations themselves.
2. Offer Tons of Tasty Food and Drinks
Whether you decide to have a bar at your wedding or just a sweets smorgasbord for your guests, your gazebo can be the perfect place for everyone to dish up or drink up – or both!
3. Don’t Skip Out on The DJ Booth
As mentioned above, your gazebo is a stage, so making it the perfect place for a band or a DJ. By having the music elevated above your dance floor, you can really set the party mood, and let the DJ do his incredible work.
In the end, whether you decorate with flowers or lanterns, or if you use your gazebo to say your “I-do’s” or simply house your drinks, it can be a perfect addition to any wedding. Be a little creative and have fun! After all, your wedding day is one to remember, so have fun decorating in your unique taste.