When it comes to wedding chair decorations, there’s no shortage of creative ideas to draw from. To help you elevate your seating game, I’ve gathered an array of inspiring concepts that span reception chairs, ceremony seating decor, and pew end styles. Additionally, this post will explore various types of wedding chairs and offer suggestions for creating memorable seating areas, providing a comprehensive guide to chair decorations.
Wedding Reception Chair Decor
When preparing for your special day, don’t forget to consider the humble chair back. As these will be temporarily relegated to beneath the wedding tables during the reception, it’s crucial to plan accordingly. To avoid any last-minute scrambles or lost decorations, let’s explore some practical yet stylish options for elevating this often-overlooked area.
Sashes Tied With Ribbon
Elegance personified, this timeless classic white chiffon wedding gown is given a touch of romance and sophistication through its delicate tie of soft velvet ribbon. The image, courtesy of Freya Raby via Oakwood At Ryther Wedding, perfectly captures the essence of understated luxury and refinement.
Trailing Sashes & Brooches
Elevate the aesthetic of your trailing chair back decor with the simple yet elegant addition of brooches. A thoughtful touch, this design element can instantly add a dash of sophistication and glamour to your overall wedding theme. The accompanying photo, courtesy of Charlotte Claricoat Photography via Blue Pigeons Wedding, beautifully captures the beauty of this understated yet effective styling choice.
Twisted Sash
Unleash the versatility of your chair by cleverly wrapping chair spindles with sashes, transforming a mundane piece of furniture into a stylish statement. A creative approach that showcases Rebecca Carpenter Photography’s work through Hoop Decor Wedding Ideas.
Macrame & Greenery
Transform your space into a lush oasis by combining the art of macrame with verdant greenery. The visual marriage between intricate knotting and fresh foliage creates a unique and captivating atmosphere that’s sure to impress. Take inspiration from the stunning Colourful Bohemian Barn Wedding in Pennsylvania, where the photographer, Dawn Derbyshire, beautifully captured the essence of this charming combination.
Lace Covers
Transforming plain chairs into stunning focal points, the decision to make or buy beautiful lace chair covers is an excellent choice for those seeking a touch of romance in their decor. This simple yet effective solution can effortlessly elevate the ambiance of any space, effectively masking unsightly chairs and inviting a sense of whimsy and charm.
Wool Pom Pom Garland
The charm of sweet wool pom-pom garlands lies in their understated elegance, making them an effortless yet impactful addition to any setting. With a simplicity that belies their visual appeal, these whimsical adornments bring a touch of playfulness and warmth to the atmosphere, as perfectly captured by Paul and Tim Photographers via Eclectic Wedding.
Purple Sash & Greenery
A touch of elegance is brought to the table by combining vibrant lilac sashes with lush greenery. To take it a step further, consider incorporating fragrant herbs like rosemary into your wedding decor. The result will be a beautiful and unique sensory experience for you and your guests. For inspiration, take a cue from this stunning image, courtesy of Katie Ingram Photography and Violet Spring Luxe Wedding Ideas.
Hessian
Transform the ambiance of your special day by draping your selected blooms in hessian, then suspending them from above using natural twine, creating a charmingly rustic and effortless wedding aesthetic.
Palm Leaf & Green Fabric
Infuse your wedding celebration with the warmth and elegance of the tropics by incorporating palm leaves and complementary fabrics into your decor. A striking visual element, this combination is sure to evoke feelings of relaxation and joy in your guests. The photograph, courtesy of Kate Boston via Tropical Bohemian Wedding, beautifully captures the essence of this concept.
Custom Banner
Elevate your event space with the added charm of a custom-made fabric banner, featuring dainty tassels that seamlessly merge style and sophistication. For an extra touch of whimsy, consider incorporating this show-stopping decor element into your chair arrangement.
Trailing Flowers
To create a seamless visual transition, consider incorporating trailing flowers like amaranth into your arrangement. This will not only add a touch of elegance but also bring the overall look together. For inspiration, take a cue from the beautiful image below, courtesy of Kristen Booth Photography and Enchanted Forest Wedding.
Greenery Hoop & Sash
When it comes to embracing a ‘more is more’ aesthetic, incorporating a lush greenery hoop into your decor is an excellent starting point. The verdant beauty of this natural element can instantly elevate the ambiance of any space.
Pleated Viole
To add visual interest to your fabric creation, consider creating a beautiful pleated pattern. This can be achieved by manipulating the fabric in a way that creates a series of layered folds, giving the appearance of delicate ruffles or soft waves.
Crinkled Silk
Embrace the raw beauty of the natural fabric, allowing it to take center stage. The rustic charm of the unadulterated material takes precedence over any artificial embellishments, creating a sense of effortless elegance.
Hessian Bow
Consider unconventional textiles like rustic hessian to add a touch of natural charm to your chair upholstery. This earthy option not only provides an alternative to traditional materials but also brings a sense of organic simplicity to the space. The rough texture and warm tone of hessian fabric can create a cozy atmosphere, perfect for a living room or outdoor seating area.
Wedding Ceremony Chair Decorations
To leave a lasting impression at your wedding ceremony, consider embellishing the chairs with elegant decorations. This thoughtful touch can set the tone for the entire event. Moreover, incorporating your ceremony chairs into the reception’s décor can be a cost-effective and time-saving solution. By doing so, you’ll not only add visual interest but also create a sense of continuity between the two events.
Rainbow Ribbons
Elevate the aesthetic of chairs by incorporating vibrant hues through rainbow ribbons, adding a playful touch to the overall ambiance. Reserved tags can also serve as a thoughtful gesture for special guests, granting them prime seating positions. This creative combination is perfectly captured in this beautiful image courtesy of Bubear Photography and Farmhouse Redcoats Wedding.
Hoop Flowers
Transform your wedding chairs with a unique and effortless DIY decor idea that’s as charming as it is easy to execute. Start by wrapping a metal hoop in soft, textured wool – the perfect canvas for adding delicate blooms. This whimsical touch adds a romantic flair to your special day.
Pearls
Add a touch of elegance to your wedding decor by adorning chair backs with delicate strands of pearls. This effortless yet sophisticated styling trick will add a dash of glamour to any room, and make for stunning photos – like this beautiful shot from Eleanor Jane Photography at Penally Abbey Wedding.
Wire Hoop
For a charming and understated addition to your wedding decor, consider adorning a delicate wire hoop with either fresh or high-quality artificial flowers. The simplicity of this design allows the beauty of the blooms to take center stage.
Sunflowers & Blue Sashes
When it comes to creating a visually striking colour combination, contrasting hues like the vibrant yellow of sunflowers paired with calming blues can result in a truly breathtaking effect. The image, captured by esteemed photographer Becky Bailey and featured at Burley Manor Wedding, is a perfect testament to this principle.
Pampas Grass
Pampas grass adds a touch of whimsy to wedding decorations, taking on a romantic and airy quality when used as chair adornments. Its feathery plumes evoke the delicate appearance of wings, imbuing the space with a sense of lightness and elegance.
Greenery Swag
Elevate the ambiance of your gathering by adorning multiple seating areas at once with a lush, verdant greenery garland. This eye-catching decor piece not only adds visual interest but also creates a sense of cohesion and flow throughout the space.
Ribbon Chair Decor
As you make your way down the aisle, the delicate ribbons tied to the chairbacks will gently flutter in the wind, creating a whimsical and romantic ambiance. The serene atmosphere is perfectly captured in this beautiful image by Alexa Penberthy Photography, featured on Modern Barn Wedding.
Colourful Pom Poms
Creating paper pom poms is a straightforward and budget-friendly process that yields impressive results – a true win-win situation. The versatility of these DIY decorations makes them a popular choice for various celebrations, as seen in this photo taken by Emma and Rich at Festival Party Wedding.
Pink Peony
The majestic peony is a stunning gem of spring wedding flowers that exudes timeless beauty. Its delicate petals and lush foliage make it a popular choice for many couples looking to add a touch of elegance to their special day.
Wheat Pew Ends
If you’re looking to add a touch of rustic charm to your special day, why not consider an unconventional wedding chair decor? One stunning option is showcased in this beautiful photo by Danielle Benbow Photography, taken at the picturesque Manor Barn Buriton Wedding. The wheat-covered chairs are a unique and romantic twist on traditional decorations, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
Luggage Tag
Transform ordinary chair labels into a stunning decorative element by incorporating vintage-inspired luggage tags. To achieve this unique look, it’s essential to polish your calligraphy skills and get creative with the written word. For inspiration, take a cue from the beautiful image showcased below.
Origami
Elevate your event’s ambiance by crafting origami paper cranes, either as standalone decorations or paired with vibrant blooms to add a pop of color to seating arrangements. The delicate, intricate designs will captivate guests and create a whimsical atmosphere. This unique decor element is perfect for rustic gatherings like tipi weddings, as seen in the photo courtesy of Parkershots via Tropical Countryside Tipi Wedding.
Jam Jar Flowers
Elevate your space with a touch of opulence by adorning the arms of chairs with ornate floral-filled jars. This unexpected detail can add a sophisticated flair to any setting, as seen in this beautiful outdoor woodland wedding inspiration image.
Lavender Petal Jars
To create a serene and alluring ambiance, consider incorporating dried lavender petals into decorative jars or pouches. This floral addition not only fills the air with its intoxicating aroma but also harnesses the calming properties of lavender to help alleviate last-minute jitters.
Bunches Of Lavender
Consider adding a whimsical touch by tying bunches of lavender to your chairs. To make it even more budget-friendly, look for local lavender farms that may offer competitive pricing.
Fabric Hearts
With the whirring sound of a sewing machine, you can create adorable fabric hearts that add a personal touch to your wedding decor or gifts. The idea of stitching together something beautiful and meaningful is what makes this DIY project so charming.
Classic Blooms
To add a touch of elegance and whimsy to your celebration, adorn chair backs with your preferred blooms. For instance, you could replicate the romantic charm seen in this lovely wedding setup (featured image: Christine McNally Photography) by pairing delicate petals with lush greenery.
Initial Signs
This lovely couple’s wedding chair decor added a personal touch to their special day, showcasing their unique personalities. By incorporating their initials on either side of the aisle, they cleverly wove together their love story with every step, making the experience truly unforgettable for their guests.
Knitted Hearts
If you know someone with a passion for knitting, why not encourage them to get creative and craft some stunning decorative pieces? The possibilities are endless, from intricate doilies to beautiful blankets that can be used as centerpieces or wall hangings.
Painted Palm Leaves
For a tropical wedding theme, consider incorporating palm leaves into your decor. You can use artificial paper palm leaves or opt for the real thing. Add them to white chairs or ‘ghost’ chairs to create a stunning visual effect. This unique touch will transport your guests to a tropical paradise, reminiscent of a scene from Moana’s enchanting world. A beautiful photo by Moana Photography, featured on Wedding Ideas Canary Islands, showcases this inspiring idea.
Wicker Heart
With their delicate charm, wicker hearts can be treasured and repurposed numerous times, making them a thoughtful and eco-friendly choice for special occasions. The photograph, courtesy of Levien & Lens Photography, captures the whimsical essence of a Beautiful Lilac Garden Wedding in New Zealand, where the beauty of nature and love are skillfully intertwined.
Shepherd’s Crook
Alternatively, consider placing blooms on shepherd’s hooks or archways along your aisle, rather than directly on the chairs. This creates a beautiful and whimsical focal point that adds visual interest without obstructing guests’ views.
Couple Wedding Chair Decorations
When it comes to decking out your wedding ceremony and reception spaces, it’s easy to get caught up in the idea that every single element needs to be perfectly coordinated. But let’s be real – sometimes, budget constraints or a desire for sustainability can make it unrealistic (or even unnecessary) to go all out on every single detail. In those cases, consider focusing your decorative efforts on just one area: the wedding chairs themselves.
Peacock Chairs
The allure of peacock chairs is undeniable, making them a favored choice among couples. For those seeking an affordable option, renting or scouring online marketplaces for second-hand pieces can be a great way to incorporate these stylish seats into their wedding decor. The visual appeal of a beautifully captured image can also spark inspiration, as seen in the lovely photograph provided by With Love Rose Photography and featured on Boho Fairytale Wedding.
Ribbon Backs
Elevate the ambiance of your seating area with a simple yet effective solution – inexpensive yet elegant ribbons that can instantly add a touch of sophistication to your chairs. The beauty of this idea lies in its ability to transform a mundane setting into a stunning one, all for a fraction of the cost and effort required by other decorating methods.
Macrame
Whether you’re looking to add a touch of bohemian flair to your home decor or seeking a unique gift for a loved one, creating your own macrame chair decorations offers endless possibilities. Take inspiration from this stunning example (Photo: Jade Touron Photography via Luckley Farm Holidays Wedding) and get creative with your own DIY project.
Greenery Hoop
To elevate your wedding decor, consider creating unique greenery hoops that seamlessly blend natural elements with rustic charm. Simply gather a collection of real or artificial stems and arrange them into whimsical shapes. Then, add an eye-catching touch by placing a laser-cut wooden sign at the center of each hoop. This clever combination will not only add visual interest to your decor but also provide a beautiful focal point for your guests. The accompanying photo, courtesy of Helen Jane Smiddy Photography, showcases this creative idea in action, featuring stunning greenery hoops at Lemore Manor Wedding.
Paper Banner
For a rustic barn wedding in Tennessee, consider incorporating cut-out paper banners like the one featured in the image above. Not only are they easily accessible for purchase, but they’re also budget-friendly. This unique decoration can add a charming touch to your special day.
Log Slice
As couples opt for a more down-to-earth celebration, rustic weddings are gaining popularity. One creative way to personalize this type of wedding is by incorporating engraved log slices featuring the happy couple’s names. This charming touch not only adds an extra layer of romance but also serves as a unique keepsake for guests to take home.
Horizontal Flowers
As you pose for a photo, surrounded by the statement blooms placed deliberately across the chair, remember that the proximity of the adjacent chair can greatly impact the overall visual appeal. The image, courtesy of Image Perfect Capture Photography, perfectly captures this concept as showcased in Ethereal Boho Wedding Ideas.
Wedding Pew End Decor
As you’re planning your church wedding, don’t forget to give equal attention to the decorative elements that conclude each aisle – your wedding pew ends. These finishing touches can elevate the overall aesthetic of your ceremony space, adding a pop of color and texture that complements the rest of your decor. By incorporating beautiful decorations at the end of each aisle, you’ll create a visually stunning backdrop for your ‘I dos’.
Pampas Grass Buckets
Transform your pew ends with a touch of modern elegance by incorporating pampas grass into metal buckets. This unique and rustic-inspired arrangement is perfect for adding a whimsical touch to your special day. For inspiration, take a look at this stunning example featuring gorgeous blooms and lush greenery.
Greenery Bottles & Candles
Add a touch of warmth and whimsy to your ceremony space by lining the floor of your pews or aisle with lush greenery, such as eucalyptus or ferns. The soft glow of candles in mercury glass holders or apothecary jars can also add a romantic ambiance, making your industrial wedding a truly unique and memorable celebration.
Milk Churn Pew Ends
Not only do milk churns filled with vibrant blooms make for a stunning visual display, they also serve as a practical and whimsical way to transport flowers from the ceremony to your reception. The beauty of this idea lies in its ability to seamlessly merge form and function, allowing you to bring a touch of rustic elegance to your special day.
Pussy Willow Hearts
Transforming delicate pussy willow branches into whimsical heart shapes is an art form. The gentle curves and soft textures evoke a sense of romance and playfulness, reminiscent of a charming country house wedding.
Gypsophila
For wedding decorations, Baby’s Breath or Gypsophila is an affordable yet elegant option to adorn the pews. Its delicate white blooms add a touch of whimsy and romance to any ceremony setting, making it a practical choice for couples on a budget.
Succulents
The combination of succulents and bright colors is nothing short of serendipitous, evoking a sense of harmony. The image, courtesy of James & Lianne’s Origami Filled Retro Vintage Feel Autumn Wedding, perfectly captures this synergy, showcasing the beauty that arises from the union of these two elements.
Milk Bottles
To add a touch of whimsy to your summer wedding, consider incorporating mini glass milk bottles filled with fresh, seasonal blooms. The delicate, vintage-inspired containers will complement the vibrant colors and textures of the flowers perfectly. Imagine the charming sight of these tiny vases scattered throughout your reception or placed at each guest’s setting – it’s sure to be a conversation starter. And as you browse through wedding inspiration online, don’t forget to check out Jonathan Ong’s Whimsical Rustic Farm Wedding in Australia for more ideas on how to bring this sweet concept to life.
Wedding Chairs By Type
For those who prefer a minimalist approach or have truly unique chair designs, leaving decorations off is always an option. However, for those who want to add some flair, there are various alternatives to consider. One such choice is hiring seating options. Here’s a breakdown of the different types of chairs available.
Folding Metal Chairs
Elevate your daily routine by incorporating industrial chic into your workspace or home setting through the incorporation of folding metal seating, reminiscent of classic factories and warehouses.
Vintage School Chairs
When it comes to decorating, many people opt for modern and sleek designs. However, there’s something special about incorporating salvaged vintage pieces into your space. Take school chairs, for example. These humble seats can be transformed from forgotten relics into unique conversation starters. And let’s not forget the charm they bring with their distressed finishes and stories of the past.
Chiavari Chairs
The Chiavari chair, a timeless favorite on many a wedding day, has become an enduring symbol of elegance and sophistication. Its understated yet refined design makes it a popular choice for couples looking to add a touch of classic charm to their special celebration.
Wooden Crossback Chairs
With sleek lines and a sophisticated aesthetic, crossback chairs effortlessly blend elegance with modernity, exuding refinement and poise. The image above, courtesy of Liz Baker Photography via Ethereal & Soft Fine Art Wedding Ideas, perfectly captures the understated sophistication that these chairs bring to any setting.
Ghost Chairs
Sleek and stylish, modern ghost chairs effortlessly blend into their surroundings, their subtle presence a testament to their design ingenuity. The image of one such chair, captured by the talented Philippa Sian Photography as part of English Garden Wedding Inspiration, perfectly embodies this concept.
Paper Cord Chairs
The allure of rustic paper cord chairs lies in their unique blend of comfort and style. Unlike traditional seating options, these chairs offer a tactile experience that combines the coziness of natural fibers with the visual appeal of handcrafted design. As seen in this beautiful photo by HannaMonika Wedding Photography (via Crete Wedding), the organic charm of paper cord chairs adds warmth to any setting.
Wooden Folding Chairs
The combination of folding wooden chairs and trestle tables creates a stunning visual effect, perfect for capturing special moments on camera. This elegant setup can be seen in action in the beautiful photography provided by Ellie Gillard Photography, taken at Riverside London Wedding.
Velvet Chairs
Elegance is elevated to new heights when contemporary velvet chairs are paired with sleek brass legs, creating a sophisticated and stylish atmosphere that exudes refinement and poise. This timeless design combination is sure to make a statement in any setting, whether it’s a luxurious living room or a posh wedding reception.
Marais Chairs
The iconic Quirky Marais chairs are sure to leave a lasting impression. With their unique design, they have the ability to transform any space into an unforgettable setting. The accompanying photo, courtesy of Three Flowers Photography and taken at the beautiful Tuffon Hall Wedding, perfectly captures the essence of this one-of-a-kind piece.
Bentwood Cafe Chairs
Elevate the ambiance of your day with a touch of elegance by incorporating this one-of-a-kind seating style into your decor. The perfect blend of functionality and flair, this unique chair design is sure to transport you to a world of sophistication and refinement.
Louis XVI Chairs
Incorporating antique-style chairs into your wedding décor can instantly elevate the ambiance, imparting a sense of sophistication and refinement. The classic design elements of these vintage-inspired pieces will seamlessly blend with modern elements, creating a harmonious balance that’s both timeless and captivating.
Rattan Back Chairs
The shabby chic aesthetic brings a touch of effortless elegance to any setting, and rattan-back chairs are a quintessential element in achieving this look. Their vintage charm and organic feel instantly evoke a sense of warmth and coziness, making them a perfect fit for romantic gatherings like weddings.
Benches
The charm of bench seating lies not only in its ability to foster social connections, but also in its endearing rustic appeal. When done right, it can be a warm and inviting addition to any gathering, reminiscent of a cozy campfire or a tranquil forest glade.
Hay Bales
Opt for an unconventional yet budget-friendly seating solution by borrowing or renting hay bales. To enhance the overall experience and ensure guest comfort, consider adding soft blankets to the mix. This creative approach not only saves on expenses but also adds a unique rustic charm to your event. As seen in North Yorkshire Barn Wedding, where photography plays a significant role in capturing the joyful atmosphere.
Mismatched Vintage Chairs
Create a one-of-a-kind aesthetic by combining vintage chairs from different eras and styles. The resulting fusion will be a true reflection of your personality, as each piece holds its own character and story. This approach not only adds a touch of whimsy to the space but also makes for an impressive conversation starter.
Multicolour Chairs
Imagine a whimsical seating arrangement that embodies the vibrant essence of a rainbow. Instead of choosing just one colour, why not opt for rainbow-painted chairs that showcase each hue of the spectrum? This unique detail will add a pop of personality to your special day, don’t you think? Just imagine the stunning visual effect it would create when captured in photos, like this beautiful shot from Holly Collings Photography at Canonteign Falls Wedding.
Infinity Chairs
With their sleek, curvaceous design, infinity chairs exude a timeless elegance that effortlessly complements any setting. Whether in a lush garden or a modern event space, these chairs are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Garden Chairs
Evoke the essence of a charming garden wedding by incorporating outdoor chairs with plush seat pads. This thoughtful touch not only adds a pop of color but also creates an inviting atmosphere that encourages guests to linger and socialize. The subtle elegance of these chairs, complete with soft cushions, effortlessly conveys a sense of sophistication and refinement, making them an excellent choice for a destination wedding like the one showcased in this photograph from ZONZO’s Tuscany Destination Wedding collection.
Wedding Seating Area Inspiration
To create an inviting atmosphere, consider providing plush and comfortable seating areas where your guests can unwind and relax. These cozy nooks are designed to be so soothing that your visitors may struggle to tear themselves away!
Retro Velvet Seating
Give your home a unique touch by upcycling vintage velvet chairs into a statement seating area. Not only will this add a pop of color and texture, but it also helps reduce waste and gives old pieces a new lease on life.
Scandi Style
Transform a cozy seating area by incorporating the rustic charm of Scandi-inspired furniture alongside a show-stopping banner. The perfect blend of modern and vintage, this combination creates an inviting atmosphere that’s sure to draw guests in. Take inspiration from the beautiful Boho Rustic Barn Wedding featured in the photo, where Terri & Lori Photo and Film beautifully captured the essence of a warm and welcoming space.
Velvet Sofa
Transform the ambiance of your event by incorporating elements of comfort and familiarity. Consider bringing along a few choice pieces, such as a well-loved sofa, to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that will leave your guests feeling relaxed and at ease. Alternatively, you could also opt to hire a piece of furniture that exudes coziness, like a plush armchair or a vintage velvet sofa, to add a touch of whimsy to the space. Whichever route you choose, rest assured that it will be a hit with your attendees, who will appreciate the unique and thoughtful touches that set your event apart from the ordinary.
Giant Deckchair
Transform any space into a unique backdrop for capturing memories by incorporating a statement piece like a large deck chair. This oversized seating option not only provides a comfortable spot to relax but also becomes the focal point of your setting, allowing you to take stunning selfies or portraits that truly stand out.
Stools
Offering comfortable seating options for your guests can go a long way in ensuring they feel at ease and relaxed throughout the celebration. A clever addition would be to incorporate visually appealing stools that allow them to perch and socialize, which is likely to prove a crowd-pleaser.
Velvet Occasional Chair
Transform an everyday statement chair into a stunning wedding day accessory. Take inspiration from the whimsical world of folk weddings, where vintage charm meets rustic romance. A beautifully crafted statement chair can serve as more than just a prop – it can become a focal point for your special day.
Open Tipi
Imagine stepping into a cozy cocoon as you enter an open-air tipi, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant colors. The rustic charm of this unique setting is perfectly captured in the stunning image above, courtesy of Binky Nixon Photography.
Armchair
Find a serene setting and invite the comfort of a reliable armchair to join you. Allow yourself to unwind in the presence of this familiar and cozy companion, surrounded by the calming atmosphere that only a peaceful spot can provide.
Floor Cushions
To create a truly welcoming atmosphere, consider incorporating plush elements that allow your guests to get cozy and comfortable. This can be achieved by scattering cushions, rugs, and blankets throughout the space, inviting your loved ones to lounge and relax. The addition of soft textiles will not only provide a sense of warmth and tranquility but also encourage socialization and mingling among your guests.