You’re not alone, countless couples struggle with the daunting task of decorating for their big day. And let’s face it – weddings can be expensive. According to a recent study conducted by Zola, the average cost of wedding décor alone is between $2,000-$10,000. But fear not, there are ways to create a beautiful wedding atmosphere without breaking the bank. Here are some tips and tricks for planning stunning wedding decorations on a budget.
In this article, here’s what I’ll cover:
- Average wedding décor costs
- Tips for decorating on a small budget
- How to get more out of your wedding décor
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average wedding décor costs
As previously mentioned, the average couple spends around $2,000 on decorations for their wedding. However, it’s important to note that this number can vary greatly depending on factors such as location, season, and the couple’s personal preferences. While some couples may prioritize grand floral arrangements and extravagant centerpieces, others may opt for a more minimalist approach.
So, what is the average costs of your typical wedding décor items? According to Zola, here is the breakdown of average wedding décor costs:
- Flowers: $500-$12,000
- Centerpieces: $50-$500 per table
- Tablecloths/runner: $20-$80 per table
- Chargers: $8-$10 each
- Lighting: $200-$5,000
- Candlesticks: $10 each
- Photo booth backdrop: $100-$1,500
- Welcome sign: $10-$50
- Aisle runner: $30-$200
- Ceremony arch: $75-$1,000
Why the range? Because some venues don’t require as much heavy lifting on the decoration front. For example, an outdoor wedding ceremony and reception needs more minimal décor than a hotel ballroom that’s basically a blank slate.
To better understand how much you should budget for these items, The Knot provides couples with a recommended wedding budget breakdown. For flowers, décor and lighting, they recommend allocating 12% of your budget. So, what is that quick math?
- $10,000 Wedding Budget = $1,200 décor and floral budget
- $15,000 Wedding Budget = $1,800 décor and floral budget
- $20,000 Wedding Budget = $2,400 décor and floral budget
7 Ideas for wedding decorations on a budget
First things first, establish YOUR budget for wedding decor. And be realistic. Just because the average allocation is 12%, doesn’t mean that makes sense for you. For tips and tricks on establishing your decoration budget, check out my blog “Wedding Budgeting the Right Way.”
Now, onto the good stuff – let’s talk about your options for wedding decorations on a budget. Afterall, saving here will allow you to put more of your budget into the things you and your guests really care about… like a deluxe air conditioned restroom trailer in my case (Yes, I’m actually serious. My guests still haven’t stopped talking about it 🤣).
#1 | Buy discounted wedding decorations in bulk
Purchasing items like candles, vases, and other decorative elements in bulk can help you save money in the long run. Look for deals on sites like Amazon, local craft stores like Hobby Lobby or JoAnn Fabrics, or at wholesale stores like Oriental trading.
#2 | Shop secondhand decor
As they say, one person’s trash is another person’s treasure. For affordable wedding decorations, consider shopping secondhand FIRST.
Thrifted wedding décor can add a unique personalized touch to your wedding aesthetic and most any thrift store find can be repurposed or upcycled to fit your style. Some cleaning supplies and spray paint go a LONG way.
Check out consignment stores like Savers and the Salvation Army, or online marketplaces such as Facebook Marketplace, and wedding resale websites and apps such as BravoBride or the Wedding Swap app.
#3 | Use seasonal wedding décor
Take advantage of the season by incorporating seasonal décor into your wedding theme. For example, fall weddings could incorporate pumpkins, leaves, and other autumnal elements. Try to buy seasonal décor the year prior at the end of the season when items are deeply discounted. Michael’s is a great option for this.
#4 | DIY your wedding decorations
Instead of buying expensive pre-made decorations, consider taking a DIY approach. This not only allows you to save money, but also adds a personalized touch to your wedding décor.
For example, you can make your own DIY wedding backdrops using inexpensive materials, like these Dollar Tree hula hoops I transformed into a floral back-drop for our head table.
Most often, incredible DIY wedding decorations are all about opening up your mind to see the possibilities.
#5 | Opt for Budget-Friendly Floral Decor
Floral is STUNNING, but it can add a ton to your decoration budget. Here are three ways you can save on floral wedding decorations:
1. Go with less expensive floral options such as in-season blooms and greenery for your wedding centerpieces.
2. DIY your own flower arrangements by purchasing from local farms, or an online retailer such as Fifty Flowers that ships bulk blooms right to your doorstep.
3. RENT flower centerpieces through sites like Something Borrowed Blooms that provides couples with tons of options that ship to your door and you return after.
OR… ditch floral altogether and consider non-floral centerpiece alternatives like candles, lanterns or potted plants. I made my own greenery garlands for my wedding tablescapes and not only did I love how they turned out, I resold them to another couple who loved them too, making my wedding centerpiece cost practically NOTHING!
#6 | Repurpose ceremony decorations
Make a plan for using your ceremony decorations at your reception. Especially if the two are being hosted at the same venue, you can repurpose some ceremony décor, such as flower arrangements, lanterns, vases, etc. to dress up your reception space.
#7 | Utilize Cricut or Chalkboards for Wedding Signage
Rather than printed wedding signage, use chalkboards to hand-write wedding signage or, if you’re writing skills are sub par and you’re afraid your wedding guests will think your five year old niece helped with your wedding calligraphy, then maybe opt for tools like Cricut.
If you’re not particularly crafty, fear not – Cricut has got you covered. This handy product can handle any DIY wedding project involving cutting paper, felt, vinyl, fabric and other materials such as leather, matboard, and wood. Use it to create custom signs, table numbers, and more.
Check out this DIY Bride’s crafty Cricut wedding signage!
HOW TO GET MORE OUT OF YOUR WEDDING DECOR
Last but not least, one of the best ways to stretch your wedding decor budget is to look at it as an investment that you’ll get returns on later. There are two ways to do that:
- Wedding decor resale (I have a whole article on this with tons of great nuggets!)
- Repurposing wedding decor for other events
Just because the décor was originally intended for a wedding doesn’t mean it can’t be used for other events. Consider buying your wedding decorations early and using them at all your other events, like your wedding shower and rehearsal dinner, or repurposing your wedding decorations for other occasions.
Whether you choose to sell your wedding decorations or repurpose them, you can rest easy knowing that you’re doing something good for your wallet, the environment, and possibly even someone else’s wedding. Don’t hesitate to get creative and think outside the box to get bigger returns from your decor.
More Budget Wedding Ideas!
Creating stunning wedding decorations on a budget is completely possible. With a little creativity and some strategic planning, you can create a beautiful wedding atmosphere without spending a fortune. Whether you opt for DIY décor, thrifted items, or bulk purchases, there are plenty of ways to make your wedding décor dreams a reality.
And, before you go, you might want to check out these additional budget-savvy wedding articles!
Happy Planning!
xo,
The Savvy Swaréy
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