How to Decorate a Venue with Exposed Beams Using Paper Lanterns

There's something undeniably magical about a venue with exposed beams. Whether it's a rustic barn, a converted warehouse, or a traditional tithe barn, those beautiful structural features are just waiting to be dressed up — and paper lanterns are quite simply the easiest, most impactful way to do it.

Why Exposed Beams Are a Decorator's Dream

Exposed beams give you a ready-made framework to work with. Unlike a blank marquee or a plain function room, beams offer natural anchor points at height — meaning you can create stunning overhead displays without the need for complex rigging or expensive infrastructure. All you need is a little fishing line, some ribbon, or simple hooks, and you're away.

How Easy Is It, Really?

Genuinely, this is one of the simplest DIY decoration projects you can take on. Here's all it takes:

1. Choose your lanterns — pick a size mix for visual depth. A combination of large (40cm+), medium (25–30cm), and small (15–20cm) lanterns creates a beautifully layered look.
2. Assemble them — paper lanterns pop open in seconds. Thread your hanging wire through the top loop and they're ready to go.
3. Hang them from the beams — use clear fishing line for an invisible, floating effect, or satin ribbon for a more decorative finish. Wrap the line around the beam or use small adhesive hooks.
4. Add lights (optional but recommended) — drop a warm white LED fairy light strand or a battery-operated bulb inside each lantern for a glowing, romantic effect as the evening draws in.

From unpacking to fully dressed beams, a team of two can transform a venue in just a couple of hours. No specialist skills, no tools, no stress.

The Difference They Make

It's hard to overstate just how dramatically paper lanterns change the feel of a space. A venue that felt cavernous and cold can become intimate and warm in an afternoon. The overhead coverage draws the eye upward, making the most of the architecture, while the soft glow of lit lanterns creates an atmosphere that no amount of table centrepieces alone can achieve.

Guests consistently comment on the ceiling décor at weddings and events — it's the element that photographs beautifully, sets the mood from the moment people walk in, and stays in the memory long after the day is done.

Colour & Style Ideas

• Classic white & ivory — timeless, elegant, and works with any colour scheme. Perfect for weddings.
• Warm neutrals & blush — soft pinks, champagne, and taupe tones for a romantic, boho feel.
• Bold & festive — mix brights for birthday parties, festivals, or cultural celebrations.
• Monochrome — all-white or all-black for a sleek, contemporary look in modern industrial venues.

Tips for Getting It Right

• Vary the drop heights for a more organic, natural look rather than hanging everything at the same level.
• Cluster lanterns in groups of three or five — odd numbers always look more visually pleasing.
• Consider the beam spacing and plan your clusters in advance so you don't run short on the day.
• For very high beams, a simple extendable pole or step ladder makes hanging straightforward.

Ready to Transform Your Venue?

Whether you're planning a wedding, a milestone birthday, a corporate dinner, or a festival celebration, paper lanterns hung from exposed beams are one of the most cost-effective, high-impact decoration choices you can make. They're reusable, lightweight, easy to transport, and endlessly versatile.

Browse our full range of paper lanterns — available in a wide variety of sizes, colours, and styles — and start planning your perfect overhead display today.