When it comes to wedding chair decorations, there are so many fantastic ideas to take inspiration from. And luckily for you, I’ve rounded up all of them to help you seat guests in total style!
Starting with reception wedding chairs, before moving onto ceremony seating decor and pew end style. Then I will share the different wedding chair types and some seating area inspiration to wrap things up. That way you have all the chair decor you’re ever going to need. Woohoo!
Photo: Bubear Photography via Farmhouse Redcoats Wedding
Wedding Reception Chair Decor
It’s a good idea to decorate the back of your chairs seeing as they are going to be pushed beneath your wedding tables during the reception. Adding side decorations here are likely to be knocked off, so it’s important to think about the practicalities. Shall we take a look at some decor possibilities?
1. Sashes Tied With Ribbon
Classic white chiffon tied with sweet velvet ribbon.
Photo: Freya Raby via Oakwood At Ryther Wedding
2. Trailing Sashes & Brooches
Add a touch of glam to trailing chair backs by adding brooches.
Photo: Charlotte Claricoat Photography via Blue Pigeons Wedding
3. Twisted Sash
Use your chair to it’s full potential by twisting sashes around the chair spindles.
Photo: Rebecca Carpenter Photography via Hoop Decor Wedding Ideas
4. Macrame & Greenery
Go all-out with macrame and greenery chair decorations.
Image Dawn Derbyshire Photography via Colourful Bohemian Barn Wedding in Pennsylvania
5. Lace Covers
Hire, make or buy beautiful lace chair covers for a romantic feel. This is a great option for unsightly chairs.
Image Georgina Brewster via Pretty & Pale Blue Summer Wedding
6. Wool Pom Pom Garland
Sweet wool pom pom garlands are simple yet oh-so effective.
Photo: Paul and Tim Photographers via Eclectic Wedding
7. Purple Sash & Greenery
Vibrant lilac sashes are neutralised with springs of greenery. Try using herbs such as rosemary for added wedding day scent.
Image Katie Ingram Photography via Violet Spring Luxe Wedding Ideas
8. Hessian
Wrap your chosen blooms with hessian and hang them with twine for a rustic wedding day style.
Photo: Janine Kirkwood Photography via Family Farm Wedding
9. Palm Leaf & Green Fabric
Bring the tropical heat with palm leaves and matching fabric.
Photo: Kate Boston via Tropical Bohemian Wedding
10. Custom Banner
Get yourself a fabric banner, complete with tassels for gorgeous chair decor.
Photo: Charlotte Lucy Photography via Whimsical Wedding Ideas
11. Trailing Flowers
Go for trailing flowers such as amaranth to add natural flow.
Photo: Kristen Booth Photography via Enchanted Forest Wedding
12. Greenery Hoop & Sash
For a more is more approach, a sash with a greenery hoop is the way to go.
Photo: Joanna Briggs Photography via Winter Blue Barn Wedding Ideas
13. Pleated Viole
Create a pretty pleated pattern with your fabric.
Photo: The Vedrines Photography via Big Barn Wedding Ashley
14. Crinkled Silk
Scrap the iron and let the natural fabric be centre stage.
Photo: Sarah Porter Photography via Burgundy Gold Wedding Ideas
15. Hessian Bow
Think of alternative materials to cover chairs, such as rustic hessian.
Photo: Aga Tomaszek Photography via Pretty Powder Blue Barn Wedding
Wedding Ceremony Chair Decorations
If you want to make an impact on your wedding ceremony, think about adding pretty decorations to chairs. Don’t forget you may be able to bring your chairs from the ceremony to reception to save time and money on your chair decor.
16. Rainbow Ribbons
Add a pop of colour to chairs with rainbow ribbons. Reserved tags are a lovely way to ensure your VIP guests have front-row seats.
Photo: Bubear Photography via Farmhouse Redcoats Wedding
17. Hoop Flowers
A great DIY wedding chair decor idea is this one! Wrap a metal hoop in wool and add pretty blooms.
Photo: Rebecca Carpenter Photography via Hoop Decor Wedding Ideas
18. Pearls
Pop strings of pearls on chair backs for a trendy style.
Photo: Eleanor Jane Photography via Penally Abbey Wedding
19. Wire Hoop
A dainty wire hoop with fresh or faux flowers will look lovely.
Photo: Rebecca Carpenter Photography via Hoop Decor Wedding Ideas
20. Sunflowers & Blue Sashes
Contrasting colours such as sunflowers teamed with blue sashes can look stunning.
Photo: Becky Bailey Photographer via Burley Manor Wedding
21. Pampas Grass
On style, pampas grass looks wonderfully romantic and almost wing-like on wedding chairs.
Photo: Daniel Lopez Perez via Guatemala Wedding
22. Greenery Swag
Decorate many seats in one hit with a draping greenery swag.
Photo: Jesus Caballero Photography via Spain Destination Wedding
23. Ribbon Chair Decor
Ribbons tied to the side of chairs will blow in the breeze as you strut up the aisle.
Photo: Alexa Penberthy Photography via Modern Barn Wedding
24. Colourful Pom Poms
Paper pom poms are easy to make as well as cheap. Plus they are high-impact, win-win.
Photo: Emma and Rich via Festival Party Wedding
25. Pink Peony
Gem of the Spring wedding flowers, the peony will always look pretty.
Image Chloe Murdoch Photography via Beautiful Pink & Blue Tuscany Villa Wedding
26. Wheat Pew Ends
An alternative wedding chair decor idea for you, wheat!
Photo: Danielle Benbow Photography via Manor Barn Buriton Wedding
27. Luggage Tag
Use luggage tags as decoration and for chair labels. Be sure to brush up on your calligraphy skills to achieve this look.
Photo: Laura Coughlan via Silver Blue Wedding
28. Origami
Fold origami paper cranes and use them solo or with flowers to accessorise seating.
Photo: Parkershots via Tropical Countryside Tipi Wedding
29. Jam Jar Flowers
Hang jars of florals on the ends of chairs for a luxe look.
Image Ilaria Petrucci via Indie Folk Handmade Outdoor Woodland Wedding
30. Lavender Petal Jars
Use lavender petals in jars, or pouches for the most beautiful aroma. Lavender is also known for calming properties so could help with last-minute nerves.
Photo: Casey Avenue via Forest Fairytale Wedding
31. Bunches Of Lavender
Or, for more impact tie bunches of lavender to your chairs. Try finding a local lavender farm for potential money savings.
Image Jen Marino via Beautiful & Relaxed Summer Blush Lavender & Hessian Wedding
32. Fabric Hearts
Whizz on a sewing machine? Whipp up some cute fabric hearts.
Photo: Karen Flower Photography via Barn Spring Wedding
33. Classic Blooms
For a traditional style, use your chosen flowers to decorate chairs.
Image Christine McNally Photography via Bohemian Wonderland Purple & Tea Party Wedding
34. Initial Signs
Have fun with your wedding chair decor like this couple who used their initials on each side of the aisle.
Photo: Jen Marino via Yellow Grey City Wedding
35. Knitted Hearts
Know someone who loves to knit? Get them on the case to create some gorgeous knitted decorations.
Photo: Lucy Rose via Knitted Wedding
36. Painted Palm Leaves
If you’re planning a tropical wedding, spray paper or real palm leaves and add to ghost chairs.
Photo: Moana Photography via Wedding Ideas Canary Islands
37. Wicker Heart
Darling wicker hearts can be kept and reused time and time again.
Image Levien & Lens Photography via Beautiful Lilac Garden Wedding in New Zealand
38. Shepherd’s Crook
If you aren’t keen on adding flowers directly to chairs, pop them on shepherd’s crooks down your aisle instead.
Image Natalie J Weddings via Pretty Purple Pastels Country Wedding
Couple Wedding Chair Decorations
You don’t have to decorate all of your wedding chairs if money is tight or you are trying to be more sustainable.
Instead, create stand-out seating by decorating your own wedding chairs only.
39. Peacock Chairs
Peacock chairs have been really popular with couples and it’s easy to see why. You can rent chairs or buy second-hand peacock chairs on marketplaces.
Photo: With Love Rose Photography via Boho Fairytale Wedding
40. Ribbon Backs
Inexpensive and pretty ribbon will make your chairs shine.
Photo: Fiona Kelly Photography via DIY Tipi Wedding
41. Macrame
Commission or make your own macrame chair decorations.
Photo: Jade Touron Photography via Luckley Farm Holidays Wedding
42. Greenery Hoop
Craft greenery hoops using real or artificial stems and add a laser-cut wooden sign in the middle.
Photo: Helen Jane Smiddy Photography via Lemore Manor Wedding
43. Paper Banner
Cut-out paper banners such as this one are readily available to buy and inexpensive too.
Image Alex Bee Photo via Creative Quirky Rustic Barn Wedding in Tennessee
44. Log Slice
Rustic weddings will be accentuated with log slices engraved with names.
Image Chloe Murdoch Photography via Beautiful Pink & Blue Tuscany Villa Wedding
45. Horizontal Flowers
Statement blooms across the chair will look stunning. Just be mindful of how close the chair next to you is.
Image Perfect Capture Photography via Ethereal Boho Wedding Ideas
Wedding Pew End Decor
Your wedding pew ends are important too! Make your church wedding flowers sing with beautiful decorations at the end of each aisle.
46. Pampas Grass Buckets
Hold pampas grass in metal buckets for a modern pew end idea.
Photo: Thyme Lane Photography via Eco Garden Wedding Flowers: Myrtle & Thyme
47. Greenery Bottles & Candles
Line the floor of your pews with greenery and pretty candles.
Photo: Siobhan Amy Photography via Greenery Industrial Wedding
48. Milk Churn Pew Ends
Milk churns filled with flowers not only look gorgeous but can be transported to your reception too.
Photo: Jessy Jones Photography via Lincolnshire Tipi Wedding Flowers: Rosedale House
49. Pussy Willow Hearts
Bend beautiful pussy willow into sweet hearts.
Image Bridgwood Wedding Photography via Quirky Stylish Fun Country House Wedding
50. Gypsophila
Baby’s Breath or Gypsophila is a budget-friendly and pretty flower choice for pews.
Image Katherine Ashdown via Natural Soft & Stylish Meets Luxe Wedding
51. Succulents
Succulents with vibrant hues are a match made in heaven.
Image James & Lianne via Origami Filled Retro Vintage Feel Autumn Wedding
52. Milk Bottles
Mini glass milk bottles filled with seasonal summer wedding flowers will look darling.
Image Jonathan Ong via Whimsical Rustic Farm Wedding in Australia
Wedding Chairs By Type
You could choose not to decorate your chairs, especially if they are beautiful on their own. Or if your chairs are really so ugly that you just can’t bare them, you can hire seating. Here are the different types of chairs available.
53. Folding Metal Chairs
Bring industrial vibes to your day with folding metal seating.
Photo: James Merrick Photography via Cheswell Grange Wedding
54. Vintage School Chairs
Or how about salvaged vintage school chairs?
Photo: Siobhan Amy Photography via Greenery Industrial Wedding
55. Chiavari Chairs
Chiavari chairs are a wedding day classic.
Photo: Pear & Bear Photography via Folly Farmhouse Mackworth Wedding
56. Wooden Crossback Chairs
Crossback chairs look elegant and modern in equal measure.
Image Liz Baker Photography via Ethereal & Soft Fine Art Wedding Ideas
57. Ghost Chairs
Modern and chic ghost chairs are almost invisible.
Photo: Philippa Sian Photography via English Garden Wedding Inspiration
58. Paper Cord Chairs
Rustic paper cord chairs bring comfort and style.
Photo: HannaMonika Wedding Photography via Crete Wedding
59. Wooden Folding Chairs
Folding wooden chairs look great paired with trestle tables.
Photo: Ellie Gillard Photography via Riverside London Wedding
60. Velvet Chairs
Contemporary velvet chairs with brass legs are oh-so chic.
Photo: Maria Madison via Beach Wedding UK
61. Marais Chairs
Quirky Marais chairs will create a real impact.
Photo: Three Flowers Photography via Tuffon Hall Wedding
62. Bentwood Cafe Chairs
Transport cafe chic to your day with this unique chair type.
Photo: Georgi Mabee via Pretty Travel Themed Barn Wedding
63. Louis XVI Chairs
Antique-style chairs will bring elegance and class to any wedding.
Photo: Katy Melling via Luxe Blush Pink Wedding
64. Rattan Back Chairs
Shabby chic feel rattan back chairs look ever so lovely.
Photo: Vanessa Velez Photography via Light Soft Romantic Wedding Ideas
65. Benches
Bench seating can prove social and look perfectly rustic.
Photo: Natalie Stevenson Photography via Bedfordshire Tipi Wedding
66. Hay Bales
Borrow or rent hay bales for inexpensive seating, just be sure to add blankets for comfort.
Photo: Photography34 via North Yorkshire Barn Wedding
67. Mismatched Vintage Chairs
Mix and match second-hand chairs for a unique and eclectic style.
Photo: Babb Photo via Indie Back Garden Bespoke Party Wedding
68. Multicolour Chairs
Opt for rainbow right chairs painted in all the colours of the rainbow.
Photo: Holly Collings Photography via Canonteign Falls Wedding
69. Infinity Chairs
Infinity chairs look timelessly beautiful.
Photo: James Powell Photography via Secret Garden Wedding
70. Garden Chairs
Create a garden wedding vibe with outdoor chairs complete with seat pads.
Photo: ZONZO via Tuscany Destination Wedding
Wedding Seating Area Inspiration
Provide cosy, comfortable seating for those guests wishing for a peaceful spot. Be warned though, they may not want to leave!
71. Retro Velvet Seating
Salvage retro velvet chairs for a cool seating area.
Photo: Matt Moore Photography via Bohemian Tipi Wedding
72. Scandi Style
Use Scandi furniture and a statement banner for an inviting seating nook.
Photo: Terri & Lori Photo and Film via Boho Rustic Barn Wedding
73. Velvet Sofa
Hire or bring your sofa from home for a cosy space.
Photo: Golden Vibes Photo via Magical Fairytale Wedding Ideas
74. Giant Deckchair
Create the perfect spot for selfies or your own portraits with a giant deck chair.
Photo: Rebecca Carpenter Photography via Boho Beach Elopement
75. Stools
Comfy stools for guests to perch will prove popular.
Photo: Camilla Andrea via Thorpe Garden Wedding
76. Velvet Occasional Chair
Find a statement chair for accessories and make it into a wedding day prop.
Image Jo Bradbury via Dreamy Woodlanders Inspired Folk Wedding Ideas
77. Open Tipi
Cocoon guests when an open tipi.
Image Binky Nixon Photography via Alternative Colourful Boho Wedding Ideas
78. Armchair
Bring a comfy trusty armchair to a peaceful spot.
Photo: Grace & Mitch Photo & Film via Dreys Wedding
79. Floor Cushions
Allow guests to lounge on the floor with cushions, rugs and blankets.
Photo: Anna Beth Photography via Colourful Bohemian Floral Wedding Ideas
80. Bean Bags
Beanbags are ideal for younger gets to lounge in.
Photo: Lucie Watson Photography via Rustic Boho Summer Tipi Wedding
And that’s a wrap! All the wedding chair decoration ideas you’re ever going to need. Not to mention pew ends, chair types and seating area inspiration. Oh yes!
Find Decor Hire & Wedding Stylists
Further Reading
50 Wedding Cake Ideas
58 Wedding Decoration Ideas
78 Wedding Colour Ideas
This feature was originally written by WWW writer Rachel and has since been updated by Lou to ensure it’s full of fresh ideas and content to inspire your day.
The post 80 Wedding Chair Decoration Ideas – Seated In Style first appeared on Whimsical Wonderland Weddings.