The lighting pins on our Pinterest boards are among the most saved — for good reason. Lighting and centerpieces change how a room feels more than almost any other decision.
Centerpieces and sightlines
Low arrangements keep conversation easy. Tall arrangements on slim stands feel dramatic in high rooms. Avoid the in-between height that blocks faces.
Round vs long tables
- Round tables: one central arrangement with candles around it, or a cluster of bud vases.
- Long tables: a runner of greenery, flowers and candles down the middle.
How many arrangements you need
One centerpiece per guest table, plus the head or sweetheart table, the bar, the cake table, the welcome sign and the guest book. The table planner tells you how many guest tables to plan for.
Budget-friendly centerpieces
- Bud vases with a single stem each, in clusters
- Candles in mixed heights with a little greenery
- Seasonal fruit, like citrus or pomegranates
- Potted herbs that guests can take home
Candles
Mix pillars, tapers and votives in varied heights. Use glass hurricanes for outdoor and windy spaces, and LED candles where flames aren’t allowed.
Lighting by space
| Space | Try |
|---|---|
| Ceremony | Candle-lined aisle, lanterns, golden-hour timing |
| Reception tables | Candles, low pendant lights |
| Overhead | String or café lights, draped fabric with lights |
| Walls | Warm uplighting to soften the room |
| Dance floor | A pin spot on the cake, colored lights for the party |
Double duty
Move ceremony arrangements to the head table or bar, and use bridesmaid bouquets in vases.
Lighting checklist
General information, not legal, medical or financial advice. Confirm details with your vendors, venue, officiant and local authorities.
Questions people ask
How tall should wedding centerpieces be?
Below about 14 inches or above about 24 inches so guests can see each other.
What are centerpiece ideas without flowers?
Candles in varied heights, fruit, lanterns, greenery runners, books or small potted plants.
Who lights the candles at a wedding?
Usually venue staff, the caterer or the coordinator, just before guests enter the reception. Agree who does it in advance.
