How to Hang a Neon Sign at a Wedding Safely and Securely
Neon signs have become a favorite wedding decor piece for one simple reason. They look amazing in photos. From a last name neon sign for wedding behind the sweetheart table to wedding neon signs at the bar, these glowing pieces instantly add a wow factor.
But the real goal is not just looks. It is safety. A sign that is not mounted well can fall, pull down your backdrop, or create a trip hazard. This guide shows how to hang a neon sign at a wedding the safe way, with simple methods you can use at any venue.
Before You Hang Anything: Know What You’re Working With
To hang neon signs safely, you need to know four things.
1. Sign Type and Power Needs
Most modern wedding pieces are LED, not glass. If yours is a led wedding sign (common for receptions), it is usually lightweight and runs on a low voltage adapter. Still, the power brick and cable need planning.
2. Weight and Mounting Points
Flip the sign and check for:
- Pre drilled holes
- Clear acrylic backing with holes
- Hanging wire already installed
If you ordered a custom neon wedding sign, it often comes with acrylic backing holes made for easy hanging.
3. Where It Will Hang
- Ask these questions early:
- Is it going on a wall, a frame, a hedge, a flower wall, or drape?
- Is the setup indoor or outdoor?
- Can you use tape, hooks, or screws at the venue?
4. The Cable Run
A glowing sign looks clean only when the cable looks clean. Plan where the cord will go and how guests will avoid it.
Quick Safety Checklist for Wedding Neon Signs
Use this checklist every time you plan how to hang a neon sign at a wedding.
- Check venue rules (many do not allow drilling)
- Use rated hardware that can hold more than the sign’s weight
- Keep cords off walkways
- Avoid open flames near acrylic backings
- Do not hang from weak decor like thin foam boards
- Test power in advance for at least 30 minutes
This is the difference between pretty decor and safe decor.
What You Need to Hang a Neon Sign Securely
Pack a small “sign kit” so you are not scrambling on the wedding day.
1. Hardware Options
- Zip ties (clear or black)
- Clear fishing line
- Small S hooks
- Carabiners
- Command style picture hanging strips (only for smooth walls and light signs)
- Wall hooks (if allowed)
- Velcro cable straps
- Gaffer tape (for floors, not for mounting the sign itself)
2. Tools
- Measuring tape
- Level (or a level app)
- Scissors or snips for zip ties
- Extension cord and surge protector
- Extra USB cable (if your sign is USB powered)
If you are working with custom led signs for wedding, you will usually get a power adapter. Bring a backup extension cord anyway.
How to Hang a Neon Sign at a Wedding: Step by Step
Here’s a simple process you can follow for almost any setup. It works for custom neon signs, standard wedding neon signs, and most wedding light up sign styles.
Step 1: Choose the Safest Location
Pick a spot where:
- Guests will not bump it
- The cable can run behind decor or along edges
- The sign will not be directly above seats or high traffic paths
Popular safe spots include:
- Sweetheart table backdrop
- Dessert table display wall
- Bar back wall
- Entry welcome area (only if cords can be hidden)
Step 2: Find the Support Points
Never hang a sign from something flimsy.
Your support should be:
- A sturdy metal frame
- A wooden wall
- A strong pipe and drape frame rated for decor
- A heavy stand designed for backdrops
If your decor team built a flower wall, confirm it can hold the sign plus hardware.
Step 3: Mark the Center and Height
Center the sign to your background and keep it at eye level for photos.
A good height is usually:
- 5 to 6 feet from the floor to the center of the sign
Step 4: Attach Using the Right Method
Match the method to the surface. (You’ll find the best options below.)
Step 5: Secure the Cable
Cable management is part of learning how to hang a neon sign at a wedding.
Use:
- Velcro straps behind the backdrop
- Gaffer tape along baseboards
- Cable covers if the cord must cross an open area
Step 6: Test, Then Test Again
Turn it on, walk around it, lightly tug the sign (gently), and confirm nothing shifts. Keep it on for 20 to 30 minutes before guests arrive.
Best Hanging Methods for Wedding Light Signs
Method A: Zip Ties on a Metal Frame (most reliable)
This is the go to method for wedding light signs on a backdrop stand.
How to do it
- Position the sign where you want it.
- Thread zip ties through the backing holes and around the frame.
- Tighten evenly so the sign sits flat.
- Trim extra tie length.
Why it works: Zip ties hold firm, do not slip, and handle minor movement if people bump the setup.
Method B: Clear Fishing Line for a “floating” Look
Fishing line is great when you want the sign to appear like it is suspended in front of florals.
Tips
- Use multiple points so the sign does not tilt
- Tie secure knots and double knot them
- Keep the line short to reduce sway
This method is popular for a light up wedding sign over a flower wall.
Method C: S Hooks or Carabiners on a Grid Wall
If you have a metal grid wall, S hooks make setup fast.
- Best for custom wedding light signs
- Signs with holes on acrylic backing
Method D: Wall Hanging Hooks (only if venue allows)
If the venue allows wall hooks, use proper rated hooks and anchors. Avoid guessing. Many walls are drywall, and improper anchors can fail.
Method E: Command Style Strips (use carefully)
Adhesive strips can work on smooth, clean walls for very lightweight signs. They are not ideal for textured walls, humid outdoor air, or heavy backings.
If you use them, still add a backup safety line.
How to Hang a Neon Sign on Backdrop
This is the most common wedding setup, and it is where many issues happen. A drape can sag, a frame can wobble, or the sign can slide.
Here is the safest approach:
- Use a sturdy backdrop stand (not a light photo stand meant for paper).
- Add a crossbar or extra support where the sign will sit.
- Use zip ties through the acrylic holes and around the crossbar.
- Add a second set of ties as a backup.
- Secure the cable down one side of the stand.
If your sign is a neon wedding sign custom piece with wider acrylic, use four attachment points instead of two to keep it flat.
Outdoor Wedding Setup: Extra Rules You Should Follow
Outdoor weddings look magical with wedding neon signs, but you need more precautions.
1. Use Protected Power
- Plug into a GFCI outlet if possible
- Keep adapters off the ground
- Use a weather rated extension cord
2. Watch for Wind
Wind can turn a hanging sign into a swinging sign.
Add:
- Extra tie points
- A short safety tether
- A sturdier stand with sandbags
3. Avoid Moisture
Even LED signs do not love moisture. If rain or heavy mist is expected, plan a covered location or skip the sign.
Where to Place Different Wedding Neon Signs
If you are ordering or styling custom neon signs, placement makes a big difference.
1. Sweetheart Table
Best for:
custom neon wedding sign
wedding neon sign custom
last name neon sign for wedding
Mount it on a sturdy frame behind the couple. Hide the cord behind florals or drape.
2. Welcome Area
A wedding light up sign looks great at the entrance, but only do it if:
• You can hide the cord completely
• Guests will not crowd the sign
3. Bar Sign
A glowing bar message is fun and functional. It also keeps the sign away from kids running near the dance floor.
4. Photo Booth Backdrop
Great for photos, but make sure the setup can take bumps. Photo booths get busy fast.
Common Mistakes When Hanging Neon Signs at Weddings
When people search how to hang a neon sign at a wedding, they usually want to avoid these issues.
1. Hanging from Weak Decor
Foam boards, thin cardboard, or lightweight curtain rods are not safe supports.
2. Relying Only on Tape
Tape can fail with heat, humidity, or textured surfaces. Use mechanical support like ties, hooks, or line.
3. Leaving Cords Exposed
A cord across a walkway can trip guests. Run cords along edges, behind decor, or under covers.
4. Mounting Too High
High mounts look fine until you need to adjust it. Keep it reachable for quick fixes.
Matching the Sign Style to the Setup
You may be choosing between different wedding sign styles. Here is how they compare for hanging.
1. LED Neon Style
A custom led wedding sign is lightweight and easy to mount. It is the common choice for reception decor.
2. Light Up Marquee Style
A light up sign for wedding in marquee form is often heavier and may need a table or solid platform instead of hanging.
3. Glow Stick Option
A glow stick sign for wedding is usually handheld or displayed on a simple stand. It is fun for after party photos, but it does not replace proper mounted signage.
Pro Tips for a Clean, Photo Ready Look
These small details make your wedding light up sign look polished.
- Hide the power brick behind florals or a table skirt
- Use clear ties when the frame is visible
- Keep the sign slightly forward from the backdrop to avoid harsh shadows
- Turn the sign on before guests arrive so you can spot glare and adjust angles
If your sign text is a surname or phrase, a custom led signs for wedding order with a slightly thicker stroke often reads better in photos.
FAQs
1) How do I know the safest way for how to hang a neon sign at a wedding?
Start with the surface. A strong frame plus zip ties is usually the safest option. Add a backup tether, keep cords hidden, and test the setup before guests arrive.
2) Can I hang wedding neon signs on a flower wall?
Yes, if the flower wall has a solid support frame behind it. Do not hang directly from foam or soft floral panels. Use ties or fishing line connected to the real structure.
3) Is a led wedding sign safe to use near drapes?
It is usually safe if the sign is not pressing into the fabric and the adapter is not overheating. Keep airflow around the power brick and avoid placing it on fabric.
4) What is the best height for a custom neon wedding sign behind the sweetheart table?
Aim for eye level in photos. The center of the sign is often around 5 to 6 feet from the floor, depending on backdrop height and table placement.
5) How do I hide cords for a wedding light signs setup?
Run cords down the back of the stand, secure with Velcro straps, and tape down any floor sections with gaffer tape. If the cord must cross open floor space, use a cable cover.
Final Check Before Guests Walk In
Do one last walk through:
- Confirm every tie or hook is tight
- Make sure the sign is not tilting
- Confirm cords are not in walkways
- Check that the sign turns on and stays on
If you follow these steps, you will know how to hang a neon sign at a wedding in a way that looks great and stays secure all night. And if you are ordering for the big day, custom neon signs made for weddings can be designed with the right backing and holes so hanging is simple from the start.
