13 Ways to Use Draperies and Runners at Your Wedding Venue
3/3/2026
When it comes to wedding design, Our decor is one of the best and easiest tools in your aesthetic arsenal for making your wedding photos pop on Instagram. Draperies and runners don’t just “decorate” a space—they show off your color palate and help create layered, high-impact design moments.
Whether you're planning a ballroom affair, using our white hall for the reception. or a outdoor chapel pond ceremony, using our fabrics, linens and runners can transform your venue entirely.
1. Create a Grand Ceremony Backdrop
A draped ceremony backdrop frames your vows and anchors your focal point. Layer chiffon, sheer voile, velvet, or silk in complementary tones to create dimension.
For example, at a venue like the The Plaza Hotel, full-height draping behind the altar enhances the room’s verticality and adds romantic softness to gilded interiors.
Pro Tip: Add uplighting between fabric layers to create depth and a subtle glow.
2. Transform a Plain Wall into a Feature or Wall
Many venues have blank walls that can feel stark in photos. Floor-to-ceiling draperies instantly soften the space and add texture.
Use neutral draping for elegance.
Add metallic tiebacks for glamour.
Incorporate greenery installations for a modern organic look.
This technique is especially useful in industrial venues or convention halls.
3. Frame the Entrance for a Dramatic Reveal
Create anticipation by draping the entryway to your ceremony or reception. A parted drapery entrance builds suspense and gives guests a “wow” moment as they step inside.
This works beautifully in large spaces like the The Breakers where scale calls for grand design elements.
4. Enhance a Tent Ceiling
Outdoor tent weddings benefit enormously from ceiling draping. Swagged fabric can:
Hide structural poles
Soften harsh lines
Improve acoustics
Add movement and elegance
Pair ceiling draping with chandeliers for a luxury aesthetic.
5. Define Separate Areas Within an Open Floor Plan
Large venues often require subtle zoning. Use draperies to:
Separate cocktail hour from dinner
Partition off catering prep areas
Create a VIP lounge section
This is especially effective in venues like The Glasshouse where open layouts benefit from visual segmentation.
6. Elevate the Head Table with a Fabric Backdrop
Your sweetheart or head table deserves emphasis. A layered fabric backdrop behind it ensures it stands out in photos and adds visual hierarchy.
Add fairy lights behind sheer draping for a soft, romantic effect.
7. Create a Luxurious Aisle Runner
An aisle runner guides the eye and enhances the ceremonial processional. Consider:
White satin for classic elegance
Floral-patterned runners for garden themes
Custom monogrammed runners for personalization
Venues such as Vizcaya Museum and Gardens pair beautifully with ornate or botanical runner designs.
8. Add Texture to Reception Tables with Table Runners
Table runners are an efficient way to add dimension without overwhelming centerpieces.
Popular options include:
Velvet for fall or winter weddings
Gauze runners for boho themes
Sequined runners for black-tie affairs
They also protect table linens while enhancing color contrast.
9. Create a Statement Sweetheart Table Runner
Instead of standard linen, opt for a cascading runner that drapes over the edge of your sweetheart table. This creates movement and drama in photos.
Layer with florals or candles for added texture.
10. Build a Draped Photo Booth or Photo Wall
A textured drapery backdrop makes photos more polished and cohesive with your wedding palette.
Add:
Neon signage
Floral installations
Monogram projections
This works exceptionally well in urban venues like SmogShoppe where industrial elements contrast beautifully with soft fabric.
11. Conceal Unsightly Venue Elements
Every venue has logistical components: fire exits, service doors, AV wiring. Strategic draping hides these without compromising safety.
Always coordinate with venue management to ensure compliance with regulations.
12. Design a Romantic Lounge Area
Soft drapery panels behind lounge furniture create an intimate, elevated vignette. This technique works well for:
Cocktail lounges
After-party areas
Champagne bars
Layering fabrics with mixed lighting can dramatically enhance ambiance.
13. Elevate Staircases and Balconies
If your venue features architectural elements like staircases or balconies, wrap them in flowing fabric for a cohesive design aesthetic.
For example, at the Biltmore Estate, draped stair railings can complement historic grandeur while adding softness to stone and wood finishes.