There is just something about tiny, twinkling lights that exudes romance. So what better way to decorate for your wedding day? You can use them to spotlight the vows you worked so hard to write, or highlight your reception dinner to give it a delicate, backyard vibe. No expensive, OTT installation needed — just a few strings of white lights will give you all the enchantment you want. Plus, when your guests see the glow, they’ll know exactly where the party is at. These 15 string light decor ideas will make you start daydreaming of your own sparkling event. Let’s get lit!
1. Whimsical White: Just because your wedding isn’t full of glitzy glam vibes doesn’t mean that romantic string lights are a no-go. The flowy tulle and crisp white awning seen here are adorned with lights that perfectly complement the vintage vibe of this rustic reception. (via Julianne Brasher Photography / Junebug Weddings)
2. Backyard Beauty: If you’re kicking it outdoors for your reception, use strings of lights to illuminate the space (and keep the party rocking) as soon as the sun goes down. (via Ryan Flynn Photography)
3. Backlit Backdrop: Say your vows in front of hanging string lights to stand out in the most romantic way possible. (via Braedon Flynn / Green Wedding Shoes)
4. Star Light: Dancing is *so* much better when it’s under the stars. You can create your own constellations indoors with large-bulbed string lights draped on every wall.
5. Light Chandelier: This ceiling sparkle is the best way to have a super glam chandelier over your reception without breaking the bank. Hanging it in the middle of the room will surely make it the star of your decor. (via Kerry Bartlett / Style Me Pretty)
6. Industrial Candlelight: Exposed brick is a gorgeous setting for a ceremony, but it’s made a serious dream with candlelight and large-bulbed string lights draped loosely. (via iZO Photography / Polka Dot Bride)
7. Tree Lights: Let Mother Nature lend a hand by securing bunches of string lights to tree branches. Your outdoor reception will radiate under these dreamy drops of light. (via Vasia Photography / Style Me Pretty)
8. Boho Backdrop: Space your string lights farther apart to achieve a boho backdrop that pops off the wall. (via Stacy Paul Photography / Boho Weddings)
9. Dinner Delight: Light up your community dining table with strategically placed lights to give it a more intimate feel. (via Love Is a Big Deal / Green Wedding Shoes)
10. Enchanting Lights: There is something endlessly delightful about string lights at an outdoor wedding. They give off a fairy-tale vibe that couldn’t be more apropos for your happily ever after. (via Anna Kim Photography / Junebug Weddings)
11. Festive Lights Rose Gold Lantern Fairy Lights ($10): Warm up your reception space with these geometric rose gold lights that will bring a touch of industrial design to your modern wedding decor. The twinkling statement lights would also be an adorable way to highlight your sweetheart table.
12. Paradise Beach Wedding: Sometimes you have to let the ocean scenery and beautiful sunsets speak for themselves with this less-is-more approach. Channel this couple’s look by keeping things fresh, modern, and relaxed by using string lights as the major decor attraction. (via Tec Petaja / Town and Country)
13. Daylight: No harsh lighting here. Let these tiny lights glow even during your daytime nuptials for some soft, romantic feels that can’t be matched — except by your love, obvi. (via Sarah Kate / Style Me Pretty)
14. Light Up: Is it us, or is this couple insanely radiant in this light? The straight and plentiful string lights allow them to glow brightly as they celebrate the best day of their life.
15. Crisscross Dream: Zigzagged string lights are perfect atop a more casual fête, but can easily be amped up to suit any dreamy affair. (via Hello Miss Lovely / Ruffled)
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