Decorating The Wedding Ceremony and Reception
Most wedding ceremony locations allow the wedding party to do some decorating. Be careful though, some, such as churches, may have limits as to what you can use. Historical sites, a popular pick for couples getting married in Vermont, may also have some limits. For example, your locale may state that you can only use certain electrical wiring or that you can't use lit candles. Call in advance to find out what you can and can not use to decorate for your wedding ceremony.For the reception, you can let your imagination be a bit freer. Reception halls, restaurants and hotels are used to wedding receptions and the decorations that come with them. One easy way to combine the two is to use the same basic decorating style for your Vermont wedding as at your reception.
Decorative Lighting
If you're planning an outdoor wedding (such as a garden wedding), you've made a wonderful choice: Vermont's scenery can't be topped. Take advantage of the plants and trees surrounding the ceremony by stringing dainty white lights throughout the greenery. The lights will sparkle beautifully throughout the ceremony and will make a lovely background for your photos. Make sure you buy lighting manufactured for outdoor use, especially if you are getting married during the spring or summer, Vermont's rainiest seasons.Indoor lighting can be accomplished in much the same way and looks just as lovely. String lights through standing topiaries at your reception. If you can obtain battery-operated mini light strings, you can also use these for your reception hall centerpieces.
An outdoor Vermont wedding gets a boost of charm and elegance with hanging lanterns. If you're concerned about flame, find lanterns that are battery-operated. Exquisite versions of these can be found on the internet or via your wedding planner.
The Altar or Arbor
Most churches will allow stands of flowers on either side of the altar. These make a wonderful surrounding scene while you and your spouse exchange your vows.An arbor is a square, rounded or intricately-shaped arch. These are traditionally decorated with greenery. Ivy, which grows readily in many parts of New England, is a great choice for your arbor, as are seasonal flowers.