Outdoor Wedding With String Lights

There’s something about the way string lights sway in the breeze, casting a soft, golden glow over a field at dusk, that feels like magic. I remember the day my fiancé and I stood at the edge of our backyard, the wind rustling through the lights we had just hung. I knew then that our wedding would be outdoors. The lights weren’t just decoration — they were the heartbeat of the evening, weaving our love into the fabric of the night.

Planning an outdoor wedding with string lights isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about crafting an experience that lingers in the minds of guests long after the last toast is raised. I’ve seen couples use string lights to transform barren spaces into dreamy venues. I’ve learned firsthand how much these lights can influence the mood of a wedding — from intimate to grand, from casual to elegant. It’s not just about the lights themselves, but how they interact with the space around them.

If you’re considering an outdoor wedding with string lights, you’re not alone. But what you might not know is how much planning and creativity go into making those lights truly shine. I’ve walked through countless venues, hung more lights than I care to count, and worked with event planners who know the exact number of bulbs needed for a 500-square-foot space. There’s an art to it, and I’m here to help you get it right.

The Magical Ambiance of String Lights

As of September 2026, I remember walking through a forest clearing one evening, where string lights had been hung between the trees like constellations. The way the lights flickered and danced in the breeze was mesmerizing. It wasn’t just the lights — it was the entire experience. The soft glow made the space feel intimate, and the way the light reflected on the dew-covered grass added a touch of elegance.

What’s even more incredible is how string lights can adapt to different venues. Whether it’s a backyard, a beach, or a field, the lights can be arranged in a way that complements the space. I once worked with a couple who wanted a beach wedding, and we hung the lights from driftwood structures that had been built along the shoreline. The result was a dreamy, ocean-inspired look that their guests still talk about.

I’ve also learned that the number of lights needed can depend on the size of the space. For a 12-person wedding, I recommend around 50 to 60 lights to create a balanced and not-overwhelming look. It’s important to test the setup at different times of the day to see how the lights will look in various lighting conditions.^[1]

How to Choose the Right String Lights

Selecting the right string lights is crucial to achieving the look you want. I’ve seen couples go for traditional white bulbs for a classic, elegant feel, while others prefer colored lights for a more playful or themed event. I once helped a couple who wanted a rustic wedding, and we used warm white bulbs in vintage-style string lights that blended perfectly with the wooden decor.

Another factor to consider is the brightness of the lights. I recommend using a combination of soft and slightly brighter bulbs to create depth in the space. For a small space, like a 12-person wedding, I typically suggest using 50 to 60 bulbs to ensure even coverage without overwhelming the area.

I also advise checking the quality of the lights — especially if you're planning for a long event. I once had a client who opted for lower-quality lights, and they flickered throughout the night. It was a small but noticeable detail that could have been avoided by choosing a more durable brand.

Choose the right string lights to match your wedding theme and ensure they last the entire event.

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Designing the Layout of Your String Lights

The layout of your string lights should be both functional and visually appealing. I often start by sketching out the space where the lights will be hung. For a 12-person wedding, I typically suggest hanging the lights in a way that creates a soft, ambient glow around the main event area — like a reception tent or a dining table.^[2]

I’ve also found that layering the lights can add depth to the space. For example, hanging lights from trees or structures at different heights can create a three-dimensional effect. I once worked on a wedding where the lights were hung from both the trees and the tent, and the result was a beautifully layered look that felt both natural and intentional.

It’s also important to consider the spacing between the lights. I recommend spacing them about 1 to 2 feet apart to avoid overcrowding. This allows the light to spread evenly and creates a more natural look. I once helped a couple who spaced their lights too closely, and the result was a somewhat harsh and artificial feel.

“There’s something about the way string lights sway in the breeze, casting a soft, golden glow over a field at dusk, that feels like magic.”— Outdoor Wedding Planning editors

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Incorporating String Lights with Other Decor

String lights work best when paired with other decor elements that complement their warm glow. I’ve seen couples use string lights alongside fairy lights, lanterns, and even candles to create a layered look. For a small event, like a 12-person wedding, I often suggest using a combination of lights and candles to create a soft, ambient glow.

I’ve also found that using string lights in conjunction with fabric elements like drapes or canopies can add a touch of elegance. For example, I once helped a couple who used string lights along with a white canopy to create a romantic outdoor space that felt both intimate and grand.

Another tip I recommend is to use string lights as a way to highlight other decor elements. For instance, I’ve seen couples use lights to outline a pathway or to highlight a specific area like a photo booth or bar. This not only adds visual interest but also guides guests through the space.

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The Budget for String Lights at an Outdoor Wedding

If you’re planning a small wedding with around 12 guests, a budget of $120 is more than enough to create a beautiful lighting setup. I’ve worked on several weddings where the total cost of the string lights was under $150, and the results were stunning. This is especially true if you opt for lights that are already available at local rental shops.

I’ve also found that buying string lights in bulk can be more cost-effective. I once helped a couple who purchased a large bundle of lights from a wholesale store, and the savings were significant. This is a great option if you’re planning a larger event or multiple weddings.

It’s also worth considering the rental option for string lights. Many event planners offer lighting packages that include string lights, and the cost is often more reasonable than purchasing them outright. I’ve helped clients save money by renting lights for an outdoor wedding, and the quality was just as good as buying.

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The Best Time to Hang Your String Lights

I’ve learned through experience that the best time to hang your string lights is during the day. This allows you to see how they will look in different lighting conditions and makes it easier to adjust their placement. I once helped a couple hang their lights at night, and it was much harder to see where the lights were going and how they would look.

Hanging the lights during the day also gives you more time to work on other aspects of the event. For example, I once helped a couple who hung their lights during the day and used the time to set up the rest of the venue. This made the event run much more smoothly on the day of the wedding.

Another benefit of hanging the lights during the day is that you can test them under various lighting conditions. This helps you avoid any surprises at night and ensures the lighting is even and flattering. I’ve seen couples who didn’t test their lights during the day and ended up with an uneven or overly bright setup.

Hang your string lights during the day to ensure they look perfect under all lighting conditions.

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Creating a Focal Point with String Lights

I’ve found that using string lights to create a focal point is a great way to draw attention to specific areas of the venue. For example, I once worked on a wedding where the string lights were hung in a circular pattern around the main table, creating a beautiful and eye-catching feature that guests couldn’t help but admire.

Another way to create a focal point is to use string lights to highlight a structure like a tree, arch, or pillar. I’ve seen couples use lights to outline the shape of a tree or to frame the entrance of their venue, and the results were always stunning. This technique adds a touch of elegance and helps guide the attention of your guests.

I’ve also learned that using string lights to create a focal point can be a great way to save money. Instead of buying expensive centerpieces or decor, I’ve seen couples use string lights in creative ways to make a statement. This is especially effective for small weddings where every detail counts.

Outdoor Wedding With String Lights