How to Choose Wedding Decorations That Fit Your Vibe & Budget

Photo: Brittani Medeiros Photography | Florist: Flowers Valley

Along with your attire, your decor is one of the best ways to let your and your partner’s personalities truly shine on your wedding day. To represent your tastes effectively, you’ll have to learn how to choose wedding decorations that fit your vibe. Remember, there’s more to the process than simply settling for the first items you come across. You must pick wedding decor that’s beautiful, cohesive and reflective of your style, which requires a good amount of planning, but we promise it’ll all be worth it in the end. Use this wedding decor checklist and advice to help you determine exactly what you need for your ceremony, cocktail hour and reception.

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How to Decorate for a Wedding That’ll Stun

Don’t know how to start planning the decor for your wedding? Check out the expert-approved tips below for guidance. 

Pinpoint Your Aesthetic

When you first get engaged, it can be tempting to stock up on decor elements that you think you might use down the road, especially if you catch a case of inspiration overload. But until you’ve booked your wedding venue and have a crystal-clear vision of how to describe your wedding style, you could be doing more harm than good by collecting random decorative items. Remember, your original wedding vision will likely change during the early stages of your wedding planning process, especially once you factor in your budget, the guest count and the season, so it's better hold off on ordering those ultra-trendy pieces for now.

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Speaking of wedding style, you’ll be happy to know there are a lot of themes to choose from. You can go gothic, celestial, minimalist or disco chic for your wedding style. Or what about an airport-themed wedding weekend to show your love traveling? There are so many aesthetics out there, so we suggest you take time looking at social media, magazines and more to help narrow down what you like. And if you’re struggling to put your dream wedding vision into words or stick with one style, focus on the feeling you want your event to evoke (think: relaxed, romantic or modern) instead of limiting yourself to a specific theme.

Be Flexible With Your Color Palette

While it’s important to know the wedding colors you want, try to be open-minded and use the color palette as a guideline for your wedding decor rather than feeling obligated to match everything perfectly. For example: Instead of your colors being just gray and white, have a neutral color palette that consists of ivory, beige, and colors with gray undertones, like charcoal, olive green and khaki. This approach gives you the opportunity to have a few colors to focus on, while also adding similar hues to round out your decor, which displays a more harmonious look. 

Determine Your Budget

Cathy O'Connell, the cofounder and creative director of COJ Events, says that your budget needs to be a part of the wedding decoration conversation. "Decor can be expensive, and the goal is to get the most impact for every dollar, which means you should make decisions based on your wedding, not on the latest Instagram post. Remember, Instagram sets expectations that some couples can’t execute within their budget," she adds. With that said, it’s best to create a budget for your wedding as a whole, then see how much you can allocate to decorations. 

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Take Advantage of Your Surroundings

Once you have some clarity on your wedding style, think about your venue. If your venue sits on stunning land and/or the venue’s preexisting structure is striking enough, you might not need as much decor as you think. Monica Roma, the founder of Leoeventi, says: “I strongly recommend visiting the venue in person before making any final decor decisions. Understanding the architecture, natural surroundings and layout of the space can help couples identify what needs enhancing and what’s already beautiful on its own.” 

Your locale might already have a lot of existing charm or decorative features, such as built-in accent walls, landscaped gardens or stained glass windows. Consider how you can design your wedding decor to highlight those details, and how you can benefit from using them. Depending on the venue, you might be able to skip decor in some areas, thanks to the existing elements. For example: If you’re getting married at an outdoor venue, such as a beach, lots of decor might not be necessary. In those cases, going overboard with decorations could detract from your venue’s scenery.

You should also ask your venue about what complimentary rentals and decor are included with your wedding package. “Know exactly what your venue already provides, what gets brought in and what has to be rented. That information lets you know what elements will bring your design to life and where your money needs to go,” O'Connell says.

Think About Logistics and Practicality 

“A common mistake couples make is overlooking the practical aspects of decor and how they affect the guests. For example: An elaborate floral centerpiece might look stunning in photographs, but if it blocks guests' views and prevents them from having a conversation across the dinner table, it has failed in one of its most important functions," Roma says. This is why it’s so important to consider how each element will realistically function at your celebration. One way to accomplish this is by asking the staff at your venue to see photos of how others designed the space. 

Another aspect you should look into is the lighting for your wedding, especially for events held during the evening. “Thoughtfully-designed lighting can sometimes have a greater impact on the overall atmosphere than elaborate floral arrangements, transforming both the venue and the guest experience,” Roma says. Some items that are great for illuminating darker spaces are suspended lanterns, string lights and tabletop decor like lamps. 

Start With the Essentials

By now, you hopefully have a good idea of what your venue needs to become the wedding space of your dreams. Start with the absolute essential items. This includes all of the functional pieces, such as tables; wedding chairs; flatware; china and decorative lighting. You’ll also need table numbers and a seating chart or escort cards, so guests know where they’re sitting at the reception.

Next, you can move onto the details that we’re calling “decorative basics”—items that don't serve a technical purpose but play a big role when it comes to showcasing your wedding theme and adding character to your venue. This includes details like ceremony aisle markers; the altar backdrop; centerpieces and tablecloths. Secondary details and extras come next, which are pieces that aren’t necessary but will add to your guests’ experience and serve as an extension of your wedding style. Think: place cards, welcome signs or a cocktail hour lounge area. 

Work With a Professional 

"My final piece of advice is to work with experienced professionals who can guide you toward the best choices for your wedding and your budget. Don't be afraid to be upfront about how much you're comfortable spending. A good professional won't simply suggest the most elaborate or expensive options, but will help you make the most of your available budget, recommending solutions that are both beautiful and realistic," Roma says. Bonus: If you take pictures of your venue during your tour, your wedding planner or event stylist could possibly create mock-ups of the space that include various decor options to help you visualize the final result.

The Ultimate Wedding Decor Checklist

While it's unlikely that you'll need everything on this list, it's helpful to know all of the terminology you're bound to come across when finalizing your wedding decoration ideas. See what items couples typically get for the ceremony, cocktail hour and reception. 

Wedding Ceremony Decor List 

Let’s start with pieces you might need at the beginning of the wedding day. The following is a wedding ceremony decor checklist every couple should see. 

• Aisle markers: Aisle markers are displayed at the end of every row of ceremony chairs, pews or benches. They line the center aisle (where you and your wedding party will walk for the ceremony processional) and can be tied to the chairs, placed on the ground or displayed on stakes/hooks. Popular types of aisle markers include bows, candles and greenery bundles. 
• Aisle runners: Traditionally, an aisle runner is a long piece of cloth that spans the length of the ceremony aisle and is unrolled right before the bride's entrance, sometimes by the flower girl and ring bearer.  Today, your aisle runner can be as unique as you want it to be, whether that means covering the floor in thousands of rose petals, lining vintage rugs end-to-end or skipping the runner altogether. 
• Altar arrangements: Floral arrangements that are displayed on both sides of your wedding altar. Larger arrangements can be placed directly on the ground, while smaller altar arrangements can be showcased atop pillars or tables. 
• Arbor: An arbor is similar to an arch, but it is typically square and often features four posts rather than two, creating a canopy. 
• Arch: An arch is a type of wedding altar beneath which a couple exchanges their vows. Arches have two posts and are typically rounded—circular arches and half-arches are two popular options, and they're commonly decorated with flowers or greenery. 
• Ceremony seating: The ceremony seating can be anything, from chiavari chairs to floor pillows. Other options include benches, pews and stools. 
• Ceremony signage: Ceremony signage is a fun way to personalize your venue. It also gives you the chance to share important information. For example: If you're having an unplugged ceremony, create a sign that reminds everyone to turn off their phones. 
• Flower girl and ring bearer items: While everyone in your bridal party traditionally carries a bouquet down the aisle, your youngest wedding attendants don’t. The ring bearer typically holds a pillow or box containing the wedding bands, and the flower girl carries a basket of flower petals or confetti to scatter along the aisle. 
• Garland: A garland looks like a botanical "rope" and is often made from greenery, flowers or both. Garlands can be draped or hung on almost anything, such as the backs of chairs, doorway toppers and even wrapped around staircase banisters. 
• Wedding programs: Also called ceremony programs, these are usually booklets or cards that name the people in your wedding party and outline the order of ceremony events.  
• Wedding welcome sign: A wedding welcome sign greets guests as they enter the ceremony (or reception). It's usually displayed on an easel and typically shows the wedding day timeline or other wedding-related details.

Photo: Kumantsova Productions | Venue: Kukua Beach Club & Restaurant

Cocktail Hour Decor List 

The cocktail hour happens immediately after the ceremony. Try elevating the space with some design elements from the decor checklist for wedding cocktail hours below. 

• Card box: A box or basket to collect wedding cards from your guests. The card box should be placed near your wedding guest book and monitored by our wedding planner or a trusted friend.
• Cocktail tables: These types of tables can be high-tops or the same height as coffee tables. They are the perfect places for people to place their drinks while they stand and socialize. 
• Gift table: This is the table where the card box, wedding guest book and physical gifts are usually placed. You can decorate this tabletop or keep it simple and nest. 
• Lounge area: Think of this as a chill area (that comes with comfortable seating and tables) for those who want to take a break from mingling. This section can also serve as another place for socializing. 
• Signature cocktail sign: If you're serving a special signature wedding drink (or two), include the ingredients and descriptions on this sign. 

Photo: Solasta Media

Reception Decor List

Decorating a wedding reception doesn’t have to be hard. Keep reading to see what decor items usually appear during this stage of the timeline. 

• Backdrops: These are structural elements that are usually placed behind the head table, sweetheart table or photo booth. Drapes, arches, signs or florals are typically used for this decor piece.  
• Bistro lights: Round, bulbed lights that evoke a European aesthetic like a Parisian café. If you've ever been to a trendy boutique restaurant, you've probably seen these accenting an outdoor dining area or entrance. 
• Candelabra: A tabletop candlestick with three or more "arms" to hold candles. 
• Candles: Whether you opt for floating, taper, tea lights or votives, candles are a great way to add subtle light to a space and add romance to the environment. Feel free to get creative with the size, color or even the scent of your candles. 
• Centerpiece: Decorative tabletop arrangements that are placed in the center of your reception tables. Flowers, candles and greenery are some of the most common wedding centerpiece ideas.  
• Chair covers: Slipcovers that adorn and hide the backs of your wedding reception chairs.
• Charger: A decorative plate or plaque that’s placed underneath a person’s dinner plate. It helps add color and texture to a place setting.
• China: Porcelain or other ceramic plates that bring a formal look to your wedding tables. You can find china plates in almost every pattern, size, shape and color imaginable, which makes it easy to be as creative or as traditional as you want. 
• Dance floor: Just because it’s on the ground doesn’t mean it shouldn’t get some special treatment. Many couples like to personalize their dance floor with a custom monogram, their wedding colors or with a dance-worthy phrase. 
• Dessert table: This is where the wedding cake and/or the other confections will be placed during the reception. You can add tabletop decor and signage here too. 
• Drapery: Extravagant drapery is all the rage right now, which is why we had to include this decor element on our list. Add drama to a tented wedding with flowing linens, or incorporate silky drapery as a colorful backdrop for photos. 
• Escort card: Individual cards that include one guest name per card and their corresponding table number. Escort cards direct guests to their reception tables and can be showcased on a table or with an elaborate display.
• Flatware: Eating utensils, such as forks, knives and spoons. Flatware, also known as silverware, can be prearranged at each place setting or displayed communally in baskets or other containers, depending on your wedding theme.
• GOBO: An abbreviation for “go-between optic,” this screen changes light into a shape, word or symbol when projected onto the floor or a wall. Most event lighting professionals can create custom GOBOs, which can be a fun opportunity to add personalization to your wedding decor. 
• String lights: Also known as twinkle lights, the bulbs on string lights are smaller than bistro lights. String lights are also more flexible and easier to wrap around posts, banisters, etc. 
• Swag: A bundle of fabric that’s draped or hung to form a curved, scallop shape. Swags can decorate chairs, windows and ceilings.
• Sweetheart table: A dinner table for the newlyweds during the reception. Rather than sitting with the wedding party at a large head table, the sweetheart table allows for the couple to have some alone time during the wedding day.
• Tablecloths: Rectangular, round or square fabric that fully covers reception tables. 
• Table number: Table numbers identify each reception table and are usually placed next to or inside of the wedding centerpieces.
• Table runner: Long, rectangular fabric that runs down the center of a reception table on top of the tablecloth. By layering table linens, you can create more visual interest and depth. 
• Tablescape: Your tablescape is the overall layout of your table decor. It usually consists of your centerpieces, place settings and table numbers.
• Marquee lights: Vintage-style lights that are in the shape of letters, numbers or symbols (like old-fashioned theater marquees). We love the idea of using these lights to spell out your initials or wedding date.  
• Menu cards: Individual guest menus at each place setting listing the wedding meal selections. If you choose not to have a sit-down dinner or don't want to provide individual cards, you can outline the menu on a sign.
• Place card: Also known as name cards, these individual pieces of paper tell guests exactly which seat is theirs upon arriving at their table. Wedding place cards are displayed either on top of the dinner plate, or on the table above the place setting. 

Additional reporting by Samantha Iacia.