Easy DIY Wedding Decorations to Create on a Budget

1. Paper Lanterns

Materials Needed:

Colored or white paper
Scissors
String lights
Glue or tape

To create stunning paper lanterns, start by cutting out various shapes from colored or white paper, depending on your color scheme. Use about 8-10 sheets for larger lanterns. Cut the paper into a large rectangle, then use scissors to cut slits—they should be about halfway down the paper without cutting through. Roll the paper into a tube and secure it with glue or tape. Place string lights inside the lanterns and hang them around your venue to create a cozy, whimsical atmosphere.

2. Mason Jar Centerpieces

Materials Needed:

Mason jars (various sizes)
Fresh or faux flowers
Burlap or lace
Twine or ribbon
Candles (optional)

Mason jars make perfect centerpieces—affordable and versatile. Start by cleaning the jars and removing labels. You can paint them in your wedding colors or leave them clear for a rustic look. Fill each jar with flowers or candles; if using flowers, consider wheat, daisies, or lavender for an aromatic touch. Wrap burlap or lace around the neck of the jar and secure it with twine for a finished, rustic appearance.

3. Fairy Lights Backdrop

Materials Needed:

Fairy lights (battery-operated or plug-in)
Tulle or sheer fabric
Command hooks or adhesive strips

To create a magical backdrop for your wedding photos, drape fairy lights behind sheer fabric. Begin by hanging the fabric from a curtain rod, wall, or sturdy backing. Position the fairy lights in a cascading pattern for added effect. This enchanting display can be used behind the head table or as a photo booth backdrop, enhancing the ambiance while remaining budget-friendly.

4. Handmade Table Runners

Materials Needed:

Burlap fabric or any fabric of your choice
Scissors
Decorative trim (optional)

Creating your own table runners allows you to customize aesthetic while controlling costs. Measure the length of your tables and cut the burlap fabric to the desired length. You may leave the edges frayed for a rustic touch or hem them if you prefer a clean finish. For added flair, glue or sew decorative trim along the edges to match your wedding theme and colors.

5. Flower Arrangements with Baby’s Breath

Materials Needed:

Baby’s breath (gypsophila)
Floral foam or vases
Ribbon (optional)

Baby’s breath offers an elegant yet budget-friendly floral option. Gather several stems and arrange them in vases or use floral foam for stability. Use simple clear glass vases for a minimalist design, or wrap them with ribbon for a pop of color. Consider placing them throughout the venue, such as at the guestbook table or along aisles, providing a fresh and airy feel without breaking the bank.

6. DIY Signage

Materials Needed:

Wood boards or old picture frames
Chalk paint or paint markers
Sandpaper (optional)

Custom signage can be created easily with just a few materials. Start by choosing wood boards or upcycled picture frames that will serve as your mediums. Lightly sand them for a rustic effect if desired. Paint them using chalk paint for an elegant touch or use paint markers for a cleaner, more modern elegance. Create directional signs, welcome messages, or table numbers—let your creativity speak through the signage.

7. Succulent Favors

Materials Needed:

Small pots
Soil
Succulent plants
Tags (optional)

Succulents not only serve as beautiful decorations but can also function as wedding favors. Purchase small pots, soil, and succulent plants from a local nursery. Plant your succulents in the pots and personalize each one with a thank-you tag attached to the pot’s edge. Place them as centerpieces or provide them at each guest’s seat as a delightful takeaway.

8. DIY Wedding Arches

Materials Needed:

PVC pipes or wooden dowels
Fabric or garlands
Flowers (faux or fresh)
Weights or anchors

Creating a lovely wedding arch can serve as a beautiful backdrop for your ceremony. Use lightweight PVC pipes or wooden dowels to construct a simple frame. Drape flowing fabric or garlands around the arch, securing it with weights to prevent it from blowing over in the wind. Embellish with fresh or faux flowers that coordinate with your wedding theme, creating an eye-catching focal point.

9. Vintage Tableware

Materials Needed:

Thrifted plates and glasses
Mix-and-match silverware
Dish detergent

Enhance your wedding tables subtly with vintage tableware. Visit local thrift stores or garage sales to find unique plates, utensils, and glasses. Mix and match for an eclectic yet stylish vibe. Ensure everything is clean and polished before setting the tables, as the charm of vintage items will add an intimate touch to your wedding.

10. Fabric Flags or Banners

Materials Needed:

Fabric remnants
String or twine
Scissors

Crafting flags or banners can add a festive flair to your venue. Select fabric remnants in various colors and patterns that align with your wedding theme. Cut triangles or rectangles and attach them to a long piece of string or twine. Hang them around the dining area, ceremony location, or at the entrance to create an inviting atmosphere.

11. Table Numbers with a Twist

Materials Needed:

Card stock or wood slices
Paint or markers
Table holders (optional)

Instead of traditional table numbers, get creative by using card stock or wood slices as unique number holders. Paint or write the corresponding table number on each slice and place them upright at each table. This personalized touch will serve as a conversation starter among guests while being cost-effective.

12. Photo String Display

Materials Needed:

Twine or string
Clothespins
Printed photos

Collect your favorite photographs and string them together for a personalized display that showcases your journey as a couple. Simply run the twine or string across a wall or table, and clip your pictures with clothespins. This unique decoration serves as both art and storytelling, inviting guests to engage with your love story while adding a charming vintage aesthetic to your wedding decor.

13. Seasonal Leaves and Branches

Materials Needed:

Freshly cut leaves or olive branches
Vases or jars
Water

Incorporate natural elements by using freshly cut seasonal leaves and branches. Whether it’s spring buds, summer greens, or autumn foliage, these elements enhance your decor with organic beauty. Place the leaves in vases or jars filled with water to keep them fresh throughout the day. Offering a simple yet elegant touch, these natural decorations resonate well with outdoor or rustic-themed weddings.

14. Balloon Garlands

Materials Needed:

Balloons in various sizes and colors
Balloon tape
String or fishing line

Balloons can create breathtaking garlands when arranged creatively. Start by inflating balloons in different sizes, then use balloon tape to secure them together in clusters. Drape the garland along entryways, dessert tables, or backdrops. A carefully designed balloon decoration will energize the atmosphere and add color without a hefty price tag.

15. Colorful Confetti or Petals

Materials Needed:

Tissue paper or flower petals
Small bags or cones

Create vibrancy during your reception by utilizing confetti or flower petals. For confetti, cut colorful tissue paper into small squares, or choose biodegradable flower petals for a natural appeal. Package them into small bags or cones for guests to shower on you as you leave the ceremony or during specific moments throughout the reception. It’s an enchanting touch, bringing joy and celebration to your special day.

Maintaining a budget while planning your wedding doesn’t mean compromising on creativity or beauty. The decoration ideas mentioned above are not only easy to implement, but they also allow you to inject your personal style into the big day. Each decoration becomes a piece of the puzzle that completes the beautiful picture of your wedding celebration.