Ugly AHR hall

[Peach]

Okay, so we are pretty sure we are having an AHR. Also mostly sure it is going to be in the town I grew up in, to accommodate my huge family that doesn't get to go to DW. Problem is, though, that there is only one location really in this place, and I pretty much have to go with it (since this is the part my family gets to do). It is a really out-dated, ugly community centre. I really don't care so much, but I would like to do what I can to make it prettier for super cheap (or almost free). I should also mention that they don't want things hung on the walls, and that we are just doing a cocktail reception probably; maybe a midnight lunch or something. I want nice but laid-back. Any brilliant ideas? I am pretty DIY savvy. I was thinking of making the hanging curtain of flowers I have seen on this site, and paper lanterns, but I think I need more ideas! Any help would be greatly appreciated!

[mochamakes3]

Do you have any pictures of the hall? That might be helpful for suggestions. Also, do you have a theme or wedding colors?

[Peach]

I don't have any pictures; it is a basic community centre; very 80's, and not in a good way. I am hoping for beach themed, and in blues and coral for colours. It is going to be pretty casual, more a cocktail party with appetizers and a midnight lunch (probably), but I would still like something to make it look, well, better. I did find out that there are hooks hanging in some places on the walls (lined up horizontally) so it is possible to hang things from that.

[JayKay]

Could you hang anything from the ceilings? I was at a wedding a few months ago at a hall that sounds similar and they hung some colored tulle on the ceiling and it really made it seem bright and cheery and forgot about the 80s decor.

[Peach]

It is a very large hall; do you think that would still work? I don't see anything in their forms about not hanging things from the ceilings, so that might help! Plus, it could make it feel smaller and more cozy (we are certainly not going to fill the room). Thanks!

[jamieirene]

Is there a park near you?  like a pavillion you could rent instead?

[Peach]

Unfortunately for the location (middle of nowhere tiny town), there is nothing else that suits the number of people and the guests (a couple very elderly family members who want to be inside on a hard floor for walkers and such; they are my grandparents who I am very close with and who will not be seeing me get married, so I really want to give them what they want)... I think I am stuck with the community centre, though the tulle will help I think... I am okay with that location, to appease my family (since I am getting the wedding I want), but I would just like it to be, well, less ugly

[mochamakes3]

Paper lanterns are also a great option for adding color, especially if you can hang stuff from the ceilings. Otherwise, bright table cloths/runners and chair sashes.

[adales]

Big plants and colored linens may also help.  I would also decorate with pictures from your actual wedding.

[LisaMatterni]

I guess the lanterns look good too on the reception. Try to add colored-balloons also.