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Planning a wedding is exciting, but wow, those costs pile up fast—especially for decorations. I know the struggle: you want your day to look amazing, but you don’t want to empty your entire savings account just for a few hours of pretty.
I’ve pulled together some smart, low-cost decor ideas that’ll help you create a lovely vibe without breaking the bank.
There are so many creative, practical ways to make your wedding feel special, even if you’re watching every dollar.
1. DIY Paper Lanterns
I love paper lanterns for their simplicity and price. Hanging them inside or outside instantly adds a soft, cozy glow. All it really takes is some string, lightweight paper, and a handful of LED lights. You can mix up the colors or sizes to match your vibe.
2. Bud Vase Centerpieces
Bud vases are a go-to for me. They’re so affordable, and you only need a stem or two per vase. Mixing up the shapes and sizes keeps things interesting, and it’s honestly so easy to pull off a clean, modern look without a florist bill that makes you wince.
3. Palm Leaf Ceremony Backdrop
There’s something about palm leaves that just pops, and they’re not expensive. I like layering dried or fresh palm leaves for a cool ceremony backdrop. This works especially well if you’re into boho or tropical themes.
4. Queen Anne’s Lace Bouquets
I’m a fan of Queen Anne’s Lace for bouquets—so affordable and easy to find. These delicate, airy flowers blend beautifully with almost anything. I see them in rustic and classic weddings all the time, and honestly, they’re a bit underrated.
5. Votive Candles with Mirrors
Votive candles on little mirrors? Instant romance. The candlelight bounces off the mirrors and just makes the whole table brighter. You can usually find packs of small mirrors for cheap, and the effect feels way fancier than the price tag.
6. Decorative Table Runners
Table runners are my secret weapon for adding color and personality. They’re everywhere—in every fabric and pattern you can imagine. Sometimes I grab basic fabric, cheesecloth, or even paper. Runners really help set the mood and make everything feel pulled together.
7. Folded Napkin Place Settings
Folded napkins are such a simple way to make each place setting feel special. A basic fan or pocket fold with a plain or colorful napkin does the trick. It’s a small detail, but it adds a bit of style to every table.
8. Upgraded Flatware Display
I’ve found that wrapping flatware in burlap, ribbon, or even twine instantly upgrades the look for hardly any money. For buffets, I group utensils in glass jars or little containers. It keeps things tidy and looks way more intentional.
9. Printed Menu Cards
Printed menu cards add a thoughtful touch and help guests know what’s coming for dinner. I usually make simple ones at home, but there are also cheap custom options online—sometimes under a buck each, which is wild.
10. Flower Garlands on Arches
I love draping flower garlands over arches. It makes any ceremony spot feel fresh and inviting, and you can go faux or real depending on your budget. Either way, it’s a win.
11. Charger Plates for Tablescape
I’ll admit, I’m a sucker for charger plates—they make plain dinnerware look elegant. But you don’t have to spend much. Sometimes I use gold doilies, woven placemats, or even sturdy paper chargers. Works like a charm.
12. Balloon Arch Installations
Balloon arches are one of those things that look tricky but are actually easy and cheap. I love them for adding color at the entrance or as a photo spot. Mixing colors to match your theme is half the fun.
13. Rustic Wooden Signage
I always gravitate towards rustic wooden signs for welcoming guests or pointing the way. You can make them yourself, personalize them, or just repurpose old boards. They’re easy to fit into any style and add a bit of warmth.
14. Mason Jar Lanterns
Mason jar lanterns are a classic for good reason—charming and cheap. I fill them with candles or string lights for a soft glow. Adding ribbon, lace, or twine gives them a personal touch. You can scatter them on tables or hang them up for instant coziness.
15. DIY Photo Booth Backdrop
A photo booth doesn’t need to be fancy or expensive. I usually just grab a blank wall, string up some fairy lights or streamers, and call it done. Paper fans or balloons add a playful touch, or you can hang up a piece of fabric or a curtain for something a bit neater. It’s a fun spot for guests to snap memorable photos—without blowing the budget.
16. Fabric Drapery Swags
I love using fabric drapery swags to make a wedding space feel special without blowing the budget. Hanging long, lightweight fabric from the ceiling or draping it along the walls instantly adds this soft, elegant vibe. It’s simple, but honestly, it just works.
