Traditionally thought of as trade show decor, pipe and drape is being artfully transformed to serve many stylish functions for weddings, parties and corporate events. From photo backdrops to table dressing, here are 6 ways wedding planners and brides are incorporating pipe & drape systems into wedding ceremonies and receptions.
1. Add a Decorative Backdrop Anywhere
Create a beautiful background behind the head table with sheer or colored draping and strands of twinkle lights. Pipe and drape systems can also be used to design a dramatic entrance for your event. Set up draped walls, add some up lights, and roll out a carpet lined with floral arrangements.
2. Dress Up a Table
Looking for a more tailored presentation for the buffet, dessert, or head table? Although a bit more expensive than traditional table linens, drape skirting can be used to neatly extend fabric to the floor. In addition to adding a more formal touch to the event, this type of table setup offers a “secret” storage space for catering staff to stash extra supplies such as linens and napkins.
3. Get Creative with a Photo Backdrop
Let your creativity shine when it comes to designing a photo setting for wedding guests. Opt for an elegant backdrop of fabric and twinkle lights or create a candid photo area for guests to grab a prop and have fun. Oriental Trading has a large variety of 9′ x 6′ photo backdrop banners that can be pinned to a pipe and drape curtain wall. DIY photo booths can also be created with a simple pipe and drape system, or create a private dressing room adjacent to the backdrop to allow guests to change into costumes.
4. Create a Separate Space
Looking to add a lounge area or children’s play space? Pipe and drape can be used to partition larger tented spaces or function halls creating the illusion of separate rooms. Be sure to discuss these configurations with your event planner or venue to ensure fire codes will not be impacted by the temporary layout.
5. Add Privacy
Maybe your maid-of-honor’s surprise wedding present needs guests’ signatures or a special wedding gift is too big to wrap. Create a privacy booth to keep the secret under wraps.
6. Hide an Unsightly Area
Add a pipe and drape wall to hide extra chairs, the band’s equipment boxes, or the portable toilets brought in for the event. Pipe and drape systems are also useful in venues where you want to hide an unsightly wall or piece of unmovable equipment. Create a fabric wall to disguise the eyesore and move on to the next item on your to-do list.
Like these ideas, but having a hard time envisioning the setup in your reception space? Contact our Event Rental Team to discuss your needs and get some expert help putting it all together.