EIGHT Stunning Ways To Transform Your Venue

It doesn’t have to be complicated to transform your venue.

Yes, it might cost money. And, yes, it may create a bit more effort. But, if you are in love with a location for whatever reason (cost, convenience, view), but aren’t that thrilled with all of it, there are ways to make some big impacts. And, you’ll be able to pick the best way based on your venue, budget, and preference.

Even the most blah locations can be transformed into stunning show-stopping venues, with a little creativity and vision. This is true for venues that already look great, as well. Sometimes a little embellishment can go a long way. From lighting, installations, distractions, to just plain hiding what you don’t want others to see, you can transform a venue if you want to.

This post is going to review eight stunning ways to transform your venue. Some of the ways may not fit into your budget. Others might be very doable and appealing. Pick and choose what works for you, if you think your venue can use some improvement.

Here we go!

1. TRANSFORM YOUR VENUE WITH AN AMAZING FIRST IMPRESSION

First impressions are everything. And, if you think that your wedding venue doesn’t wow anyone when they first see it, focus on the entryway.

What does this look like? Well, it depends on the venue. It could be transforming a hallway so guests walk through something magical. It could mean adding candles or romance to a space that doesn’t scream “wedding”. Maybe you’re ready to roll out a red carpet for guests? Or, have a flower wall or other large floral installation there to greet them? A large sign or lighting can also help transform a venue’s entrance.

Another popular way to create an entrance is to have guests greeted by a refreshment station. Think a champagne wall, or lemonade all set up for them. Sometimes just a welcoming entrance is all they need to be wowed.

2. COVER UP THE THINGS YOU DON’T LIKE

If you don’t want people to see something, cover it up!

Now, this suggestion may seem a little weird, but hear me out. If you’re not into the walls at your venue, consider putting draping on them. Hate the carpet? Bring in a temporary floor, or area rugs. Think the artwork is dated and out of place? Replace it. Put a sculpture in front of an ugly door. Do what you’re allowed to do, at your venue, that fits with your budget and abilities.

3. TRANSFORM YOUR VENUE BY HIGHLIGHTING WHAT YOU LOVE

Now, maybe there are some parts of your venue that you’re not into, but a few that you really, truly, cherish. Make those the focal point of your wedding by highlighting them.

For example, your venue may have a pretty blah building but an incredible view from a patio. Give guests a reason to go out to the patio by having your cocktail hour out there, installing lighting, or putting out fans or heat lamps (if needed). Make whatever is the best part of your venue the most appealing place to be, and that is what your guests will remember.

4. TRANSFORM YOUR VENUE WITH A PHOTO OPPORTUNITY

Everyone loves a good photo background, right? If your venue doesn’t come with one, create one!

I once went to a wedding at a pretty boring church. There was really nothing special about it. Except, the couple brought in a cool balloon installation for photos. It was lighted nicely, and it was large enough for a group of people to pose in front of it. And you know what? It’s what I remember about their wedding.

Even the most boring and basic venues can become pretty interesting if there is a background for photos. It will draw guests to it, and they will keep going back. This could be a living wall, large flower installation, balloons, or even intriguing artwork. Adding lighting never hurts.

5. EMBELLISH YOUR DÉCOR AND SPACE

When you don’t know what to change, cover up, or distract people with, adding some décor can help transform a venue. This is true for both large and small items.

For example, you can dress up plain centerpieces with necklaces. Or, bring in lounge furniture to an empty space in a room. Add more flowers around the room, placed in interesting vases. Make each and every item you can think of just a little bit better. With a little creativity, a you can transform a venue by adding more to what is already going to be there.

6. UPGRADE YOUR VENUE’S FURNITURE AND LINENS

True story. My wedding venue came with the ugliest chairs. I mean, hideous. And, the venue itself was so beautiful. Everything about it delighted me. Except the chairs.

They were the kind of chairs that you would find in a conference room. They might have been comfortable. I’m not sure, because there was no way they were going to be at my wedding. Though it cost an arm and a leg, we upgraded to gold chivari chairs and there was no looking back.

Replacing ugly furniture, utilizing chair covers, and laying out luxurious linens can all help transform a venue. And, it’s easy to rent or buy these items. To save some costs, look into borrowing as well. Or, buy them second hand. Yes, you may still have to pay for set up and delivery, but if you’re looking for an easy way to update a venue’s look, this is how you can do it.

7. TRANSFORM YOUR VENUE BY CHANGING THE LIGHTING

The right kind of lighting can be magical in a space.

I’m not just talking about dreamy twinkle lights. I’m talking about neon signs. About up lights. About spotlights, and showcase lights, and lights that have a cutout in them for your names. All of the lights. In the right light, anything can look amazing. And, lighting is usually an affordable way to make a space look better without a big commitment. Plus, you can create shadows to hide what you don’t like (yay!).

8. TRANSFORM YOUR VENUE WITH A SHOW STOPPER

This last way to transform a venue may be the most expensive, but it’s definitely making the list. If you don’t like the way your venue looks, bring in the big guns.

What comes to mind? Ice sculptures, booze loges, water fountains, huge potted plants, and elaborate arches. Distract your guests with something that they will remember. Of course, there are always flower walls, large escort displays, welcome signs, and hanging installations, but it’s all up to what your taste is. Other show stoppers? Amazing dance floors and huge centerpieces. Create a wow factor so guest’s won’t notice the stuff that isn’t so great.

CLOSING THOUGHTS

As you can see, there are lots of ways to transform a wedding venue. Some are easy. Some aren’t. Many of them will cost a bit more, but it’s important to really love the spot that you’re getting married in, right? So, think about what works for you and implement what feels appropriate. Happy wedding planning!