If you’re looking for a stylish way to brighten up your wedding, lanterns are a beautiful solution. Available in a variety of unique styles, shapes and sizes, this versatile lighting accent can fulfill a variety of functions. Hang candlelit lanterns from branches to create a sparkling backdrop, scrawl table numbers onto the glass panes to turn them into dual-purpose centerpieces or create a romantic runway for the bride by lining the aisle with them. You can even make your own lantern designs with a little inspiration and some watercolor paint. No matter what kind of wedding aesthetic you’re going for, get some inspiration on how to rock lanterns at your wedding with these super chic examples.
1. Hanging Geometric Lanterns: Incorporate a hint of modern flair into your wedding with these stylish hanging lanterns. Add succulents or flowers to the highest point of your prisms for a little oomph. (via Amy & Jordan Photography / Bridal Musings)
2. Gold Moroccan Lantern Centerpiece: Pair a bright tablescape with these pierced-metal lanterns for a dreamy bohemian wedding. Throw in more eclectic pieces featuring vivid colors, textures and patterns to play up the Moroccan decor. (via Son Sri)
3. Camping Lantern: If you and the beau are planning a retro-styled outdoor wedding, light the way with kerosene lanterns. Tie the whole camping look together by adding wood slices and rustic mason jar flower arrangements. (via Karissa Miller)
4. Dramatic Altar: Line your altar steps with pillar candles encased in glass lanterns. Go the whole nine yards and create this romantic archway with billowy drapes trimmed with flowers and eucalyptus leaves. (via Jennifer Nichols Photography / The Nouveau Romantics)
5. Rustic Bar Decor: Guests will undoubtedly frequent the bar all evening long, so make sure it matches the look of the rest of the wedding. Dress up the bar at a rustic ceremony with chic metal lanterns, which can double as a calligraphed drinks menu with help from a liquid chalk marker. (via Josh Gruetzmacher / Style Me Pretty)
6. Dessert Table Centerpiece: If your space doesn’t allow for you to hang lanterns above your dessert table, no worries. Just supersize them! When your three-tier donut tray struggles to compete against your lantern centerpieces, you know they won’t go overlooked. (via Claudia Hung Weddings / Wedding Bells)
7. Ceremony Aisle: Use wide, gold-rimmed glass lanterns to illuminate the aisle for an outdoor ceremony. If you can’t find lanterns you like in gold, just spray paint them. (via Coco Tran / Style Me Pretty)
8. Wedding Signs: Leave your lanterns as-is or give them a customized look by spray painting them to match your color scheme. Use them to illuminate the way to the bar at outdoor receptions or as decorations for your wedding signs. (via Lost in Love Photography / Oh Perfect Day)
9. Lantern Hung on a Shepherd’s Hook: Illuminate the wedding aisle with lanterns hung on shepherd’s hooks. Keeping the lanterns elevated means you won’t need to worry about guests accidentally kicking them over. (via Meredith Moran Photography / Mon Cheri Bridals)
10. Lantern Hoop Chandelier: If you’re having an outdoor or rustic wedding and are worried about classic chandeliers being too, well, classic, consider this DIY lighting alternative. These lanterns will spruce up your space without being over the top. (via High Five for Love Photography / Every Last Detail)
11. Lantern and Eucalyptus Centerpiece: Who knew lanterns would make such dreamy centerpieces? Nestle them within floral garlands to achieve this romantic look. (via Pat Furey / Ruffled)
12. Lanterns Hung from a Tree: Hang illuminated jars from trees to guarantee a romantic sunset ceremony. The graceful pendants will add a magical touch to any outdoor reception. (via Hopkins Studios / The Knot)
13. Stained Glass: Bring the luxe look of mercury glass votives to your wedding tables with these stunning stained glass lanterns. Add floral toppers and hang them up to really *wow* guests. (via Kaitie Bryant / Ruffled)
14. Lantern Card Holder: A minimalist card holder like this wood and glass lantern can never be wrong. It can easily be transformed into a terrarium or display box after your wedding festivities come to an end. (via Joanna Fisher Photography / The Knot)
15. Escort Lanterns: Cover any trees in your reception space with paper lanterns that double as escort cards. The innovative seating guide will certainly impress guests. (via Catherine Mead Photography / Style Me Pretty)
16. Hanging Candlelit Lanterns: Mirror your gleaming dinner table votives with candlelit lanterns hung overhead. If your guests will be dining indoors, bring the outdoors inside with plenty of flowers and foliage. (via Erin Jean Photography / Style Me Pretty)
17. Stairway Lanterns: Take advantage of any stairs at your venue by turning them into a romantic vision. To achieve this picturesque scene, line the sides of your stairway with floral garlands, lanterns and pillar candles. (via Hannah Suh Photography / Once Wed)
18. Vintage Lantern Centerpiece: Light up your dining table with old-fashioned lanterns for a romantic, antique look. You can play up the enchanting old-world aesthetic with a lace table runner and apothecary-inspired vases. (via Ashley Camper / Ruffled)
Are you on the hunt for more wedding ideas? Head over to our Pinterest for more inspo!
