How to Choose Rattan Lights for a Dreamy Boho Wedding?
Lighting is the jewelry of your wedding venue. It sets the mood, directs attention, and transforms a simple space into something magical. In recent years, rattan lights (also known as wicker or bamboo pendant lights) have become a top trend for couples seeking a natural, bohemian, or rustic aesthetic.
But with so many shapes, sizes, and weaves available, how do you pick the right ones? Here is your comprehensive guide to choosing the perfect rattan lighting for your wedding reception.
1. Match the Lighting to Your Wedding Theme
While rattan is versatile, the specific style you choose should complement your overall design language.
Boho-Chic: Look for oversized, fringed, or eclectic shapes. Mixing different weave patterns creates that effortless, "perfectly imperfect" bohemian vibe.
Modern Minimalist: Choose rattan lights with clean lines, tight weaves, and uniform shapes (like simple spheres or domes) to keep the look sleek.
Coastal or Beach: Opt for lighter-colored bamboo or bleached rattan to mimic the look of driftwood and sand.
Rustic/Barn: Darker stained rattan or styles mixed with rope elements work beautifully against wood beams.
2. Consider the Venue Ceiling Height
Scale is everything. A small light fixture can get lost in a large tent, while a massive pendant can overwhelm a cozy room.
High Ceilings & Tents: You need drama here. Go for oversized rattan pendants (24 inches/60cm diameter or larger). Hanging them in clusters at varying heights creates a stunning focal point that lowers the visual ceiling, making the space feel more intimate.
Low Ceilings: Use flatter, wider shapes (like saucer pendants) rather than tall, deep baskets. This ensures guests won't bump their heads while dancing, yet still provides that warm, filtered glow.
3. The Art of Mixing Shapes (Cluster vs. Solo)
One of the biggest trends in wedding decor is the "cluster installation."
The Statement Piece: If you are hanging a light over the sweetheart table or the dance floor, you can choose one massive, intricate rattan chandelier as a standalone statement.
The Cluster Effect: For a dynamic look, group 3 to 5 lights together. The key is to mix shapes (e.g., a bell shape, a globe, and a bottle shape) but keep the material/color consistent. This adds visual interest without looking chaotic.
4. Pay Attention to the Weave and Light Diffusion
The magic of rattan lights lies in the shadows they cast.
Open/Loose Weave: These allow more light to pass through and are better for general illumination. They create soft, broad patterns on the walls.
Tight Weave: These act more like a shade, directing light downward. They are perfect for dining tables where you want focused light on the food and flowers, creating a moody, romantic ambiance.
5. Choosing the Right Bulbs
Don't ruin the look with cool-white office lighting!
Warm White (2700K - 3000K): This is the gold standard for weddings. It mimics candlelight and makes skin tones look beautiful in photos.
Dimmable Bulbs: Essential for transitioning from dinner (brighter) to dancing (moodier).
Edison Bulbs: Since the bulb is often visible inside an open-weave rattan fixture, use vintage-style Edison bulbs for an extra touch of elegance.
6. Installation Logistics
Before you buy or rent, ask these practical questions:
Power Source: Does your venue allow hanging fixtures? Do you need battery-operated bulbs if there are no outlets nearby?
Weight: Rattan is generally lightweight, but large clusters can get heavy. Ensure the venue’s rigging points can support the weight.
Cord Color: Ensure the electrical cords blend in. White cords work best for tents, while black cords disappear in dark barn ceilings.
Conclusion: Creating a Warm Embrace
Choosing rattan lights for your wedding is about more than just visibility; it’s about creating a feeling. The natural textures of wicker and bamboo bring a sense of warmth and earthiness that standard crystal chandeliers simply can't match. By considering your venue's scale and mixing shapes creatively, you can craft a lighting design that your guests will talk about long after the last dance.
Ready to light up your big day? Browse our collection of handcrafted lamps to find the perfect match for your wedding style.
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Post time: Dec-17-2025




