Your Guide to the Ultimate Forest Wedding

An outdoor forest wedding promises a magical and intimate setting for your special day. But as the sun sets, the right lighting becomes essential to keep the enchantment alive. With so many creative lighting options available, you can highlight the natural beauty of your forest venue while creating a romantic ambiance that your guests will remember forever. Here are five lighting products that will illuminate your wedding and wow your guests.

1. String Lights: Twinkling Canopies

String lights are a staple for any outdoor wedding. Their soft, warm glow creates an inviting atmosphere that mimics the twinkle of stars. For a forest wedding, consider draping string lights from tree branches or across the canopy to create an enchanting overhead display. Opt for these LED Outdoor String Lights for energy-efficiency and come in various lengths to suit your space. You can also mix different sizes and shapes, like globe or Edison bulbs, to add depth and character to the overall look.

Shop this Look:

I choose white string waterproof Edison bulb bistro lights that shined a beautiful soft white light without being too bright. I opt’d for the 100ft lengths as I knew I needed to cover a lot of space!

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Pro Tip: Consider hanging the lights in clusters or wrapping them around tree trunks to create a cascading waterfall effect. This not only adds dimension but also enhances the natural features of your venue.

2. Lanterns: Rustic Romance

Lanterns are perfect for adding a rustic charm to your forest wedding. Whether hung from shepherd hooks along the aisle or placed on tables as centerpieces, lanterns offer a timeless aesthetic. Choose from classic metal lanterns for a vintage feel, or glass and wood designs for a more contemporary look. Many lanterns come with LED candles that provide a soft flickering glow without the risk of fire, making them ideal for a wooded setting.

Shop this Look:

I choose white string waterproof Edison bulb bistro lights that shined a beautiful soft white light without being too bright. I opt’d for the 100ft lengths as I knew I needed to cover a lot of space!

Buy Now

Pro Tip: Mix and match different lantern sizes and styles to create visual interest. Use a combination of hanging lanterns and those on the ground to create layers of light that guide guests throughout the space.

3. Uplighting: Spotlight on Nature

Uplighting is a great way to enhance the natural beauty of your forest venue. By placing lights at the base of trees, rocks, or other landscape features, you can create dramatic shadows and highlights that draw attention to the surroundings. LED uplights come in a variety of colors and can be adjusted to match your wedding palette, adding a personalized touch to your decor. Consider using a warm white light for a classic, romantic feel, or add a pop of color for a more playful, modern vibe.

Pro Tip: Coordinate the uplighting colors with your floral arrangements or wedding theme to create a cohesive look. Changing the lighting color throughout the evening can add an element of surprise and keep the ambiance fresh and engaging.

4. Hanging Light Bulbs: Industrial Elegance

Hanging individual light bulbs offers a unique, minimalist aesthetic that blends modern elegance with a hint of industrial style. Suspend exposed Edison bulbs from tree branches or a wooden structure to create a captivating, starry effect that beautifully contrasts with the natural surroundings. The warm, amber glow of Edison bulbs provides a cozy and romantic atmosphere, perfect for an outdoor evening celebration.

Pro Tip: Vary the heights and lengths of the hanging light bulbs to add visual depth. Consider using dimmable bulbs to adjust the brightness as the night progresses, setting the perfect mood for dancing or dining under the stars.

5. Fire Pits and Torches: Cozy and Warm

For a forest wedding, there’s nothing like the warm, natural glow of fire. Fire pits and torches are perfect for adding a touch of drama and warmth to your celebration. Arrange a few fire pits around your venue where guests can gather and enjoy the night. Torches can be placed along pathways or around the perimeter to create a defined, illuminated space.

Pro Tip: Make sure to choose fire-safe products, especially if your venue has restrictions or fire hazards. Consider using smokeless fire pits or LED flame torches for a similar effect without the risk.

Bringing Your Lighting Vision to Life

When planning your outdoor forest wedding, remember that lighting is more than just illumination—it’s an essential element that sets the mood and tone of your event. By carefully selecting and arranging these five lighting products, you can create a magical atmosphere that highlights the natural beauty of your forest venue while ensuring your guests are both wowed and comfortable.

Need more tips? Stay tuned to The Wedding Whisperer for more inspiration on how to plan the perfect wedding, one magical detail at a time. Remember, the right lighting can transform your outdoor space into a fairytale setting that you and your guests will cherish forever.