When decorating an event space it's important to think about focal points. Maybe you need to create an 'altar' for a wedding held in a hotel or function room; maybe you want to cover an unsightly door or something else that jars with your design scheme; or perhaps you just want to create something pretty and eye-catching for your portrait or photo booth pictures.
Fiona Leahy Design / Belathee Photography
Ranging from subtle and understated to multicoloured and utterly over-the-top, backdrops let you add a pop of colour, a hint of fun or a splash of fabulous texture to your design concept and always look breathtaking. Here are a few of our favourite ideas.
BALLOONS
Balloons are a really easy and budget-friendly way to fill a large space. There are lots of great balloon suppliers out there, offering everything from the standard party size to those giant Geronimo balloons.
Mike Arick Photography
- Fill a wall with decadent gold or sparkly silver balloons to add a touch of luxe glamour, as well as making the whole room look shiny and sparkly.
- Colourful balloons (coordinated to the rest of your decor, of course) make for an interesting backdrop to your photo booth. Add weights on the ends of the strings at varying heights to create a 3D effect.
- Spell out words or your initials with letter balloons for a cute touch.
- Use coloured balloons and tack them to a wall in a random order to create a feature wall.
PAPER
Paper offers limitless scope for a backdrop - with the opportunity for everything from full-on art installations to smaller detail elements. Speak to your stationer about creating something bespoke, look online at Etsy.com for ready-to-hang-and-enjoy options or make your own with paper products from party suppliers.
Tiny Water Photography
- Create a simple but impactful display with paper streamers or crêpe paper rolls, which are readily available in any craft shop or stationers. Tie them straight onto a thick string or pole to create an instant backdrop, which can be re-used at different stages throughout your day.
- Simple paper chains - just like those you made when you were little - can also look incredibly effective. Be creative with the colours you use, maybe opting for an ombre effect for maximum impact.
- Consider going 3D with paper flowers, origami shapes, fans or pom-poms in different shades and materials mounted on a wall to create a wow factor installation.
- For a slightly more chic, understated look, opt for a few strategically placed 3D paper elements. Symmetrical shapes like butterflies work particularly well; opt for bright colours to pop against a whitewashed wall or delicate shades and shapes to contrast with exposed brick.
Amanda Judge / Ellie Grover Photography
FABRIC
For true versatility, opt for fabric where you can choose different textiles to add interest and drama to the proceedings. There are literally hundreds of fabulous fabric shops up and down the country and local markets are usually a great place to find cool fabrics. Or why not try upcycling pieces found in vintage stores and charity shops?
Hollie Lytle Photography
- Choose luxe, heavy fabrics for a chic effect, bold stripes or geometrics for something a little cooler, or lace, chiffon or tulle for a delicate and ethereal look. From simple drapes to full-on walls of fabric, it's guaranteed to wow your guests!
- Fabric florals are great for adding depth and colour to a space, especially if you want to pretty it up. You might consider a wall of floral garlands or why not hang them in the middle of your reception venue for a true centrepiece?
- Fabric trims come in all types: ruffled, beaded, braided, gilt and fringed. Hang them for a garland type effect or for something even more creative, why not swirl, twirl and position them to build breathtaking designs?
Brooke Schwab Photography
- And don't forget coloured yarn, string, twine and wool, which can all be used to create a multitude of effects and add a pop of colour to a blank canvas venue.
Backdrops offer limitless scope for creativity and are a fantastic way to inject some personality into your celebration. Play with paper, go mad with fabrics, reel out the ribbon - but most of all have fun with it!
Pocketful of Dreams is made up of creative event designers Michelle Kelly and Vicki DeBlasi, offering wedding planning services throughout the UK. We don't believe in off-the-shelf packages or one-size-fits-all; we embrace uniqueness and adore individuality! That's why all our events are truly bespoke, focusing on our clients' tastes and personalities - not our own. But one thing's for sure: we'll always throw a heap of creativity into the mix to design the perfect celebration! To find our more visit www.pocketfulofdreams.co.uk
Rosie Parsons
words Michelle Kelly and Vicki DeBlasi, Pocketful of Dreams
Copyright WED Magazine 2012
-141.jpg)
