Anyone ever hung wedding drapes?

Question

I am trying desperately to come up with a way to decorate my gymnasium for my wedding reception. The new idea is to buy isle runners (since they come in such long lengths) and drape them from the ceiling. Does anyone have any advice they can give on how I can drape mine at my reception? Thanks!

PS. I would hire someone to do this but I'm on a very tight budget. I was quoted a price of $3,000 and that's WAY out of my budget!

Answer 1

Certainly a rental company that specializes would be the best way to go; but I can relate to budget concerns. Still you might consider shopping more places.

I do have a suggestion, but you still have to PURCHASE fabric...That alone will be costly, and then what to do with it after?

In theater, and in a rental company, draping is often done on "Pipe" . By that I mean upright pipe is used/ usually adjustable to various heights. Those pipes are set onto stands with a short vertcle pipe to hold the upright. Across a span, horizontally, another specific pipe is clipped into the two uprights; and one can slide draping fabric with a rod pocket sewn in, hence creating a drape. Multiples of those can then be used to hide walls etc.

You may get answers that suggest Cord??? You'll still have to support the weight; and the sag from the weight wherever not supported.

If I were you; I'd first measure off what you need. I'd probably RENT the runner. I'd price the amount of fabric,,,and check for availability; then compare all your costs as a DIY, and shop the rental houses.

Draping from a GYM ceiling seems overkill to me. I suspect anyone looking much above eye level at a wedding reception isn't truly "GETTING IT". Beyond that and with no offense meant, guests will already be aware of WHERE the reception is. Obviously it's for a very special occasion, and should be memorable, and hopefully ONCE in a lifetime; but the focus should be just as much on the event, as on the where, and how.