Transforming plain folding chairs into elegant seating for a wedding can elevate the overall ambiance and add a personal touch to your special day. In this guide, we’ll show you creative and easy ways for how to decorate folding chairs for wedding.
From fabric drapes and floral arrangements to ribbons and custom signage, you’ll find a variety of ideas to make each chair a beautiful part of your decor. We’ll provide step-by-step instructions, budget-friendly tips, and inspiration to ensure your folding chairs look stunning. Whether you’re planning a rustic outdoor ceremony or a chic indoor celebration, let’s explore how to turn ordinary chairs into extraordinary wedding decor!
Assessing the Venue and Chair Type
Before diving into the decoration process, it’s crucial to assess both the venue and the type of folding chairs you’ll be using. The venue’s environment, whether it be an outdoor garden, a beach, or an elegant indoor hall, will influence your choice of decorations.
For instance, outdoor settings might require weather-resistant materials, while indoor venues open up a broader range of decorative options. Equally important is understanding the specific type of folding chairs available. Are they metal, wooden, or plastic? Each material has its own set of characteristics that will affect how decorations can be attached and what styles will look best.
Type of Folding Chairs Available
Understanding the different types of folding chairs available will help you select the most suitable decorations for your wedding. Here are some common types of folding chairs and their characteristics:
Metal Folding Chairs
Metal folding chairs are sturdy and durable, making them a popular choice for outdoor and indoor events alike. Their sleek and minimalist design can be easily enhanced with a variety of decorations. Use chair covers, ribbons, or draped fabric to soften their appearance and add a touch of elegance. Magnetic accessories can also be attached to metal chairs, offering another creative decorative option.
Wooden Folding Chairs
Wooden folding chairs exude a natural charm, perfect for rustic or vintage-themed weddings. These chairs are versatile and can be adorned with floral arrangements, burlap sashes, or lace covers to complement their natural beauty. Wooden surfaces allow for the secure attachment of decorations using staples, glue, or string, making them ideal for a more hands-on approach to decor.
Plastic Folding Chairs
Plastic folding chairs are lightweight and affordable, often chosen for their practicality. They come in a variety of colors, providing a flexible base for your wedding decor. To make plastic chairs wedding-ready, consider using fitted chair covers or stretchy spandex covers. Additionally, you can embellish them with ribbons, balloons, or artificial flowers for a festive touch.
10 Methods How to Decorate Folding Chairs for Wedding
1. Using Elegant Chair Covers
One of the most straightforward and transformative methods to decorate folding chairs for a wedding is by using chair covers. These covers come in various fabrics such as satin, spandex, or polyester and can instantly elevate the look of simple folding chairs. To apply, simply drape the cover over the chair and secure it with a sash or tie if needed. Choose colors that match or complement your wedding theme. White chair covers with a colored sash are a classic choice, but you can also opt for bolder colors or patterns depending on your decor scheme.
2. Adding Sashes and Bows
Sashes and bows are an excellent way to add a pop of color and a touch of elegance to folding chairs. You can use materials like satin, organza, or lace to create beautiful sashes that tie around the chair back. To attach, drape the sash over the chair, pull it tight, and tie a bow at the back or side. For a more sophisticated look, you can create intricate knots or rosettes instead of a simple bow. Choose colors that align with the wedding palette. Sashes can be mixed and matched to add depth and variety to the decor. This method is cost-effective and allows for a high degree of customization to match your wedding’s aesthetic.
3. Incorporating Floral Arrangements
Flowers are a staple of wedding decor, and incorporating floral arrangements on folding chairs can create a romantic and lush atmosphere. Use small bouquets or single flowers attached to the chair backs using ribbon, twine, or floral wire. Fresh flowers add a natural and vibrant touch, while silk flowers offer a more durable and reusable option. For a cohesive look, select flowers that are part of the overall wedding floral scheme. Greenery like eucalyptus or ivy can also be added to the arrangements to enhance the natural feel. Floral arrangements on chairs can be a statement piece on their own or complement other decorations seamlessly.
4.Utilizing Decorative Ribbons
Ribbons offer a versatile and simple way to decorate folding chairs. Available in countless colors, textures, and widths, ribbons can be used to create a variety of looks. You can tie ribbons around the chair back in bows, wrap them around the chair legs, or weave them through the chair slats. For a whimsical touch, let the ribbon ends cascade down the back of the chair. Mixing different ribbon styles and colors can add an eclectic and playful element to the decor. Ribbons can also be combined with other decorative elements like flowers or greenery for a more elaborate design.
5. Draping Fabric Swags
Fabric swags can turn plain folding chairs into elegant seating options for a wedding. Choose a soft, flowing fabric like chiffon, tulle, or organza for a dreamy effect. Cut the fabric into long pieces and drape them over the chair back, allowing the ends to cascade down to the floor. Secure the fabric with a decorative brooch, a floral pin, or a ribbon tie at the center or side of the chair. This technique creates a soft and romantic look that can be tailored to any wedding theme by selecting appropriate fabric colors and textures.
6. Attaching Personalized Signs
Personalized signs add a unique and intimate touch to wedding chair decorations. These signs can include the names of the bride and groom, table numbers, or special messages like “Mr.” and “Mrs.” Create or purchase wooden, acrylic, or cardstock signs and attach them to the chair backs using ribbon, twine, or decorative hooks. Signs can be customized with calligraphy, laser engraving, or printed designs that match the wedding theme.
7. Incorporating String Lights or Lanterns
Adding string lights or lanterns to folding chairs can create a magical and enchanting atmosphere, especially for evening weddings. Battery-operated fairy lights can be woven through the chair slats or wrapped around the chair back to add a subtle glow. Small lanterns can be hung from the sides or backs of the chairs, creating a charming and rustic look. Choose lights with warm, soft tones to enhance the romantic ambiance. This method is particularly effective in outdoor or tented weddings where lighting can play a crucial role in setting the mood. Incorporating lights adds a whimsical and ethereal element to the chair decor.
8. Using Tulle or Organza Wraps
Tulle and organza are popular choices for wedding decorations due to their light, airy appearance. Wrapping chairs in tulle or organza can add a touch of elegance and softness. Cut the fabric into long strips and wrap it around the chair back, tying it into a bow or a knot. You can also layer different colors or textures for a more dramatic effect. To enhance the look, add small decorative elements like pearl strands, rhinestones, or floral accents to the wraps. This method creates a delicate and romantic look that complements a wide range of wedding styles from classic to contemporary.
9. Attaching Decorative Garland
Garlands made from greenery, flowers, or even paper can be used to decorate folding chairs for a wedding. Create or purchase garlands that match your wedding theme, such as eucalyptus, ivy, or floral garlands. Drape the garland across the chair back and secure it with floral wire or ribbon. For a more festive look, use garlands with added elements like fairy lights, ribbons, or small ornaments. This method brings a natural and organic feel to the chair decor and can be used in combination with other decorative elements. Garlands add a lush, verdant touch that enhances the wedding’s overall aesthetic.
10. Creating Custom Chair Slipcovers
For a more tailored and polished look, consider creating custom slipcovers for your folding chairs. Choose fabric that matches the wedding theme and sew or purchase slipcovers that fit snugly over the chairs. Custom slipcovers can include additional decorative elements like pleats, ruffles, or embroidered details. This method requires more effort and investment but results in a cohesive and sophisticated appearance. Custom slipcovers ensure that even the most basic folding chairs look elegant and aligned with the wedding decor. They provide a unified look that ties the entire event together, enhancing the overall visual appeal.
Conclusion
Decorating folding chairs for a wedding can significantly elevate the overall aesthetic of the event, transforming simple seating into a sophisticated and cohesive decor element. Whether you opt for fresh flowers, decorative ribbons, draping fabrics, personalized signs, string lights, tulle wraps, garlands, or custom slipcovers, each method offers unique opportunities to express the wedding theme and the couple’s personality. Thanks for reading, and we hope this has given you some inspiration on how to decorate folding chairs for wedding!
Huston Douthit is a distinguished figure in the world of furniture design, with a decade of expertise creating innovative and sustainable furniture solutions. His professional focus lies in merging traditional craftsmanship with modern manufacturing techniques, fostering designs that are both practical and environmentally conscious. As the author of Fruniturix, Huston delves into the art and science of furniture-making, inspiring artisans and industry professionals alike.
Education
- RMIT University (Melbourne, Australia)
Associate Degree in Design (Furniture)- Focus on sustainable design, industry-driven projects, and practical craftsmanship.
- Gained hands-on experience with traditional and digital manufacturing tools, such as CAD and CNC software.
- Nottingham Trent University (United Kingdom)
Bachelor’s in Furniture and Product Design (Honors)- Specialized in product design with a focus on blending creativity with production techniques.
- Participated in industry projects, working with companies like John Lewis and Vitsoe to gain real-world insights.
Publications and Impact
In Fruniturix, Huston shares his insights on furniture design processes, materials, and strategies for efficient production. His writing bridges the gap between artisan knowledge and modern industry needs, making it a must-read for both budding designers and seasoned professionals.