You’re about to see these wedding decoration trends everywhere.
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Wedding planning can be time-consuming and even stressful. And so, if you are searching for DIY wedding ideas, the simpler each one is to achieve, the better. We have put together a collection of easy and straightforward DIY wedding decor ideas that can help bring your special day to fruition.
Beautiful do-it-yourself wedding decoration ideas that can help you save some expenses from your budget.These easy-to-do projects can be achieved in under an hour, and are so aesthetically appealing, your guests will be none the wiser.
Best DIY Wedding Ideas For Your Wedding
Table Number In A Wood Stand
From another choice of great DIY wedding reception decorating ideas, we have the upcycled cardholder. Use recycled wood or even wine corks, to create a little wooden wedding place, cardholders. A little slit down the middle and they will hold the cardstock numbers upright.
Chalkboard Wedding Sign
Most guests have no use for paper programs after the wedding anyway. So, one of the best DIY wedding reception ideas includes chalkboard wedding signs for wedding program details or even the menu.
Origami Wedding Backdrop
Delicate and airy, this backdrop will look anything but homemade and can fit in with most any wedding theme. With ribbon, string and wax paper, you can recreate this beautiful origami backdrop.
Succulent Wedding Centerpiece
For cute wedding ideas do it yourself, consider this monogram of garden-inspired centrepieces. Little succulents in recycled planters can be a beautiful breath of fresh air for your guests.
Green Centerpiece In Wooden Planters
Another option for the eco-friendly couple, a collection of greenery in wooden planters. These make beautiful centerpieces for any type of wedding.
Wedding Day Schedule
Find another use for a wooden pallet. When stood upright, it can hold each item on your wedding day schedule. A great and genius way to keep your guests informed without the hassle of paper.
DIY Wedding Ideas With Candles
Many different ways of decorating table candle holders. Wrap them up in tender baby’s breath, stand in mason jars or vases, or purchase little gold candleholders. Either way, they make a great addition to any table.
Another choice for a great wedding reception decoration ideas DIY, a backdrop of garlands. Wrap the ribbons and garlands with wire ties, to help them drape more neatly and beautifully.
Vintage Drink Station
Complete the look of a retro-themed wedding with a vintage drink station. This can be fashioned out of a vintage set of drawers or even a simple table with lace draped over it.
Hanging Floral Décor
For more hanging décor, consider pretty tassel garlands. With the flowers of your choosing and some string, you can achieve this beautiful backdrop for your special day.
Champagne Corks Place Cards
Don’t throw away those champagne corks just yet. They make it simple and easy to create place cardholders. Create the slit to hold the cards and you have another genius DIY wedding reception idea.
DIY Wedding Sparkles
Make these cute, sparkler send-off kits to display near the door on the table so each guest can just pick one on their way out. A grand and certainly picturesque way to send off the bride and groom.
Eco-Friendly Wedding Toss
Package your choice of greenery in little envelopes for an eco-friendly wedding toss. Not only will the air smell fresh, but you will definitely get lovely pictures from the beautiful contrast of colors.
Wedding Chair Decoration
Create beautiful chairbacks from fabric and floral. You could use tulle, organza, or any simple fabric available. Don’t forget to tuck the baby’s breathe or simple garland inside.
Vintage Suitcase For Cards
Create a wedding card holder out of an old trunk or suitcase for that added vintage vibe. String the word, “cards” along the open top of the case so that guests know where to place their good wishes.
Wine Corks Bar Sign
Make a simple and yet beautiful bar sign out of wine corks. Cut out the letters on craft paper, and then glue the corks together to spell out the word.
DIY Wedding Ideas With Flower Stakes
With string, a few stakes, and bottles as glass vases, you can recreate these flower stakes for a beautiful outdoor wedding.
Vintage Decoration With Windows
Another choice for wedding decoration ideas DIY for an outdoor wedding. Decorate the trees with hanging vintage windows for a special look.
DIY wedding ideas do not have to be difficult or time-consuming. Either one of these wedding ideas can get you started on creating beautiful do-it-yourself creations for your special day.
The Wedding Boom brought with it many new wedding decor ideas. As weddings returned after two years of unknowns amid the pandemic, many new and creative ideas about wedding decorations emerged. We’re thrilled to see everything from creative signage to Western and even Barbiecore vibes leading the way when it comes to 2023 wedding decor trends. What’s more, we’re sure couples are going to be just as excited about these 2023 wedding trends, which are a departure from traditional weddings, as we are. A commonality between all the freshest, hottest wedding decoration trends is that they’re all about customization. Your wedding day is yours to plan and while these ideas may be popular with many couples, they all challenge to-be-weds to think outside the box and embrace personalization. Don’t believe us? Peruse below to see what’s hot in the world of wedding decor for 2023. Whether you’re having a destination wedding or staying local, keep the guest list small or going big, no matter what you’re planning—there’s a way to bring these decor trends to life for your nuptials.
Plus, we tapped some of the wedding industry’s best wedding planning pros to offer expert insights on why these trends are popular and how couples can make the most of these wedding ideas. Expert wedding planners Sneh Diwan of Diwan by Design, Diana Lin of Cóllectives by Diana, Michelle Gainey of Lemiga Events, and Xin Huang of Le Petit Privé all weigh in below with their thoughts on the most popular wedding decorations of the moment so you can make these trends part of your big day wedding decor, from the wedding ceremony through to the end of the night.
Unique Wedding Tents
If you’re planning a tented wedding, you’re no longer limited to simple gable tents or a sailcloth tent. For outdoor weddings, we’ve seen a rise in marquee-style structures that have a more permanent feel to them. “Especially since 2020, with couples opting to do outdoor events or host destination weddings, tents and marquees are certainly a growing trend,” says Diwan. “Particularly glass tents provide versatile settings; incorporating the ambiance of the surrounding landscape, allowing guests to really appreciate the environment.”
Lin concurs, adding that “it’s not just framed or pole tents anymore. We’ve been seeing stunning greenhouse structures built overnight in places that you couldn’t even imagine exist. It’s taking outdoor weddings to a new whole level and I’m very excited to see more of this.”
Another unique tenting trend we’ve seen is the concept of non-tent tent structures to anchor couples’ wedding venues. If you want to have an alfresco wedding reception dinner, but also want to create an atmosphere and a sense of space, an open-air structure is a great tent-adjacent way to go.
Creative Wedding Signs
Gone are the days when your only stationery and signage options were to have simple flat-printed designs in frames stationed around the special day. Bespoke wedding signs are having a moment and we’re here for it.
Especially when it comes to seating charts and escort card displays, couples are turning these wedding signage elements into full backdrops that almost feel like a step-and-repeat. “Signage is the first thing that your guests will see or look for when they navigate an event space,” notes Lin. “Why not set the tone by making a statement with your creative signage or seating chart? It can double as a photo backdrop if you want to create memorable moments throughout the space.
“It’s incredible to see how many different personal touches can be added to a wedding. It’s a sign that the wedding isn’t just for the couple getting married, they are recognizing and honoring the guests that came to celebrate their love as well,” says Diwan. “We had a client recently who created personalized candles as escort cards, which also doubled as their favors. Couples lately have been going above and beyond to involve their guests through little pieces of their decor.” Similarly, Huang loves to help couples plan a “completely branded wedding. Our joy is to create a sign that services the need for direction or labeling while also blending into the decor.”
Residential Wedding Decor
Residential wedding decor isn’t limited to indoor weddings—we’re also seeing couples find ways to creatively bring the indoors out with residential wedding details at outdoor weddings. For Lin, who works both as an interior designer and a wedding planner, she shares how she’s “always blurred the lines between the two. It’s about creating an environment that’s comfortable and welcoming yet beautiful. You want to create an intimate space to gather. As such, it’s not surprising that people are leaning into residential wedding decor.”
Gainey adds that “incorporating residential touches can give a feeling of entertaining like you would at home. It’s personal and makes a wedding feel more intimate.”
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Barbiecore Aesthetic
Thanks in part to excitement over Greta Gerwig’s movie about the classic Mattel doll starring Margot Robby and Ryan Gosling, couples are bringing Barbies into the world of wedding themes. In essence, the aesthetic is all about harnessing Barbie’s true essence and leaning into a vibrant, maximalist vibe. The Barbiecore trend involves bright color palettes (which couples can learn more about in our wedding color trends story) and a general “more is more” meets neon philosophy. “I have seen Barbiecore utilized most in elopements,” says Diwan. “The over-the-top, bold colors play off the whimsy and spontaneity of it all.”
On a broad scale, we’ve seen couples move away from prescriptive wedding themes into a focus on aesthetics and vibes, many of which are known as ‘cores,’ like Regencycore and Cottagecore. “I’m all about embracing the vibrant pink hues of Barbiecore,” shares Lin. “I’ve seen this trend being incorporated in wedding party fashion, bridesmaid attires and even as a second look. Just imagine your wedding entourage in Valentino FW 2022 Pink collection! I’m not mad about it. While Barbiecore lends itself particularly well to wedding fashion and bridesmaid dresses, there are also many ways to make the aesthetic work with wedding decorations. Consider hot pink linens and modern acrylic signage. You can also rent pink lounge furniture or select a vintage pink convertible getaway car to harness that Barbie energy.
Entomology and Butterfly Wedding Decor
Yep, you read that right—bugs are having a moment within the world of wedding decorations. Entomology and lepidopterology, a fancy way of saying all things butterfly, are trending when it comes to wedding decor.
In much the same way that couples are embracing aesthetics over wedding themes, we’re seeing couples lean more into sprinkling entomology-inspired motifs throughout their weddings as opposed to having strictly butterfly-themed weddings. Subtlety is key here—nods to bug and butterfly wedding decor are a chic way to go without overdoing a butterfly wedding theme. For example, maybe you commission a custom bug illustration inspired by vintage botanical posters and John Derian for your wedding invitations. Take that motif and thread it throughout the rest of your wedding by making it appear on signage and even custom cocktail napkins.
“Small touches of entomology can make an elegant statement as opposed to using pieces that are overbearing. A brooch for the bridesmaids, paper butterflies hanging from the ceiling, tasteful art on drink signs and menu cards,” suggests Diwan.
Western Wedding Decorations
Step aside boho, there’s a new look in town. Western wedding ideas are popular right now. A Western wedding isn’t quite a rustic wedding and it isn’t quite a country wedding. Instead, the idea centers on elevated takes on Western vibes. Think: cowhide patterns, lots of texture and modern neutral colors. A Western wedding is more likely to be hosted in a meadow under a tent with the Grand Tetons in the background rather than at a rustic barn with burlap decor.
When it comes to Western wedding decorations, a big component is leaning into dried wedding flowers and foliage within floral arrangements and lots of mixed materials. From leather to wood to iron, you can build depth in your wedding design by rethinking which materials you utilize.
“The Western aesthetic is definitely rising. With fringe coming back into fashion, it’s being translated into decor. We see couples creating fun experiences that fit into the Western aesthetic: themed drinks, Western music and even interactive stations (guests picking out their own cowboy hats and accessories),” says Diwan. Lin goes on to share that she is “partial to the Western aesthetic as it’s a very specific look and theme that may not always be done right. The best example of an elevated Western theme done right would be Sophia Bush and Grant Hughes’s wedding welcome party in Tulsa. It was beautifully done with earth-tone colors and minimalist design.”
Disco Wedding Decor
Ready to hit the dance floor with a disco wedding? Now is your chance. Retro and disco-themed weddings are a trend that began in the ’70s and have circled back for a second time. The best way to bring this to life is through the inclusion of plenty of metallic and mirrored details.
“There’s something so fun about disco balls,” says Gainey. “And at night the reflection off the mirrored surfaces adds a whimsical touch. Especially for an after-party or a dance floor, I’m here for disco decor.” Similar to Gainey’s after-party suggestion, Diwan loves the idea of a disco theme for a welcome party. “Disco is always a vibrant theme to keep for the welcome party or other prewedding events. With so many ways to emulate disco, such as sequins, prismatics, and bold florals, it can be freshened up by tying in unique elements that are personal to the couple.”
Gorgeous Wedding Decoration Ideas That Will Illuminate Your Venue
Now that you’ve finally crossed the major items off your wedding checklist like selecting the date and venue, it’s time to hone in on all the details—including which wedding decorations you’d want.
If you’re on a budget, there’s no need to splurge on ridiculously expensive décor to make an impact – with a little ingenuity and proper planning, the right décor will help set the perfect mood for your big day.
Let our specially curated list of wedding decoration ideas give you some inspiration!
1. Dreamy Fabric
A little fabric goes a long way in enhancing your venue.
Clueless about how to adorn the space indoors? Try draping the ceilings with flowy, translucent white fabric (you can use it to embellish the chairs, too).
Loose swags of fabric like chiffon or satin are perfect to use for crafting a walkway down the aisle, or creating a tent ceiling over plain architecture (for outdoor weddings).
If your wedding colour palette calls for something more vibrant, opt for bright yellow, navy blue or baby pink fabric to deck out your reception.
The best thing about fabric? They’re low-maintenance and easy on the wallet!
2. Pillow Paradise
Intimate, micro weddings are all the rage now, and creating a cozy and warm environment is a great way to make your beloved guests feel at home.
If you have a lounge area or are planning on having a casual outdoor reception, stock up on some patterned pillows that can double up as décor and a comfy backrest for your guests.
These cushions add a pop of colour and personality to any wedding. Additionally, they’re also an eco-friendly choice too — you can reuse them to liven up your new home.
3. Suspended Florals
Image credits: Diktat Photography
Flowers are practically an essential at every wedding, but instead of following the traditional flowers-in-a-vase décor, why not try suspending them mid-air for an intimate, romantic floral canopy?
Suspended lush arrangements can be used to frame focal points, such as the dining area or reception.
Pro tip: if the space isn’t huge, suspended florals will encourage your guests to look upwards and marvel at the beautiful décor.
4. Green Wonderland
On top of your floral arrangements, adding garlands of greenery can be equally stunning when combined with opulent colours like silver or gold.
Eucalyptus, ferns and lemon leaves are amazing substitutes for old-fashioned table runners. Or, try strategically placing a few non-fragile terrariums to leave your guests in curious wonder.
Feeling super creative? Try using leaves to create artsy place cards. All you need is a good ol’ sharpie!
5. Rustic Chalkboards
Want to craft a dream wedding without blowing your budget?
A chalkboard can do the trick — this rustic little board can convey all the important information your guests need to know, including directions to the cocktail bar, or what’s on the menu.
It’s almost a crime how easy these chalkboards are for sprucing the place up.
6. Stunning Signage
This one’s for the couples hosting their reception at a big space outdoors such as beach- or garden-themed weddings.
Such large, open spaces will require directions so that your guests know where to go (and won’t have to keep asking where the toilet is).
Take the initiative to create signs to guide your guests around the venue — try using wood for a down-to-earth, homely feel.
7. Lovely Letters
Words are a true form of art and expression.
Letters are perfect for spelling out your wedding hashtags, highlighting specific areas of your wedding or sharing your joy and appreciation for each other in front of your loved ones.
For that extra oomph, use neon lights to instantly illuminate the reception!
8. Tinted Glassware
Since guests will be spending the majority of their time at the dining table, it’s worth spending a little more thought into making sure that’s where the magic is happening.
If you and your partner share a favourite colour, why not feature it and use it as part of your table centrepiece (i.e. your glassware)? It adds a touch of personality to the table, and it makes sharing a toast a lot more special.
9. Fresh Fruits
If you’re afraid of going overboard with flowers and greenery, try pairing them with fresh fruits like apples, pomegranates and persimmons.
This wedding decoration gives you a burst of vibrant tones that won’t break the bank. When done right, it looks – and smells – amazing!
10. Picture Perfect
Do up a photo wall of your friends and loved ones, or show off a montage of how you and your partner first met up, all the way up till the engagement.
To make things more fun and interactive, leave some space for your guests to hang up polariods of themselves at your celebration, and provide stationery for them to write personal messages.
It’s a beautiful and meaningful way to spruce up an otherwise plain space (and it also makes for great conversations)!
11. Unique Wedding Arches
Opt for flowers, branches, greenery, candles or lanterns to create a natural look for your ideal wedding arch.
If you’re feeling unconventional, try experimenting with an asymmetrical frame such as a triangular arch or a giant hoop for that visual pizazz.
Pro tip: you might want to get some mockup shots done before the actual day to ensure that your arch is picture-perfect (and secured well together to prevent accidental bumps into it from collapsing).
12. Furniture For Days
Upcycling furniture is always a good idea for couples with a green thumb, and it goes really well with vintage wedding themes.
Think old wooden dressers overflowing with foliage for a makeshift cocktail bar or rustic bookshelves to display your wedding cake.
There’s no limit to what you can display using the furniture you can find at home!
13. Dazzling Lights
Lights are an amazing way to highlight features of the reception and can instantly transform any venue into a whimsical wonderland.
Fairy lights are undoubtedly pretty, albeit perhaps a little overused. Instead, switch things up with the help of Edison bulbs, disco lights, or aromatic candles in mason jars to illuminate your tables. Or, you could line them to create an aisle runner.
Alternatively, try hanging your fairy lights vertically instead to mimic stars falling upon your guests in the night sky. *Swoons*
It’s Up To You To Set The Rules.
If you’re still unsure of where to start, try visualising your big day and playing out different scenarios in your head to help you get an idea of what you might need for your wedding decor.
Consider the wedding venue, theme, budget and your personal preferences, and create a good balance between the elements.
On a strict budget? Focus on a few focal points such as the altar and dining area, or consider choosing a more picturesque venue such as a beach ceremony—after all, the charm of nature itself is free.
At the end of the day, every wedding is different and the rules are up to you and your partner to set. Most importantly, have fun with these ideas and make them your own — it’s your happily-ever-after and you deserve nothing less than a wedding that’s perfect for the both of you.
After the decor’s all settled, if you’d like us to provide actual day wedding videography coverage, contact us today and let us document your big day for you!
Photo: Kelly Giarrocco Photography
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Event Planning: Clover Event Co.