Choosing wedding decorations
Choosing wedding decorations
Choosing the right wedding decorations is a big decision for any couple. With so many choices available, it’s easy to get overwhelmed or feel pressured to spend lots of money on decor that isn’t your style. A clear vision of what you want your wedding to look like not only cuts down the stress that comes with a big day – it helps you plan your big day better.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about choosing wedding decorations, from finding creative inspiration to cost-saving tips and tricks. Learn how to create the beautiful, cohesive wedding decor you’re dreaming of.
Planning your dream day: Why wedding decorations matter
Wedding decorations are just as big a part of planning a wedding as the dress, the DJ and the rings. Decorations can help you build a theme, reflect special memories, or simply make a wedding venue look beautiful. When you look back at photos, you’ll be reminded of all the little details that made your day so special.
And don’t forget: wedding decor isn’t just about aesthetics. Place cards, table decor or guest boards all serve a practical purpose, but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t match your theme!
Different types of wedding decorations
From grand floral installations to subtle table details, your decor choices will influence the overall feel of your wedding day.
- Seating accents: Ribbons, small bouquets, or elegant chair covers add extra charm
- Table settings: Centrepieces, candles, table runners, and place cards
- Lighting: Chandeliers, fairy lights, or uplighting can highlight a venue’s architecture
- Signage and details: Welcome signs, menus, and seating charts help tie your theme together
- Fabric draping: Sweeping curtains or drapes add texture and drama to historic spaces
How to choose wedding decorations that match your style
Narrowing your personal style down is no easy feat. These simple steps will help you to define your aesthetic, from colour palettes to matching your decor to your venue.
1. Pick a theme
Choosing a theme is a great foundation for any wedding decor. A theme doesn’t have to be rigid or elaborate; think of it more as a starting point you can build on.
Simple, modern-minimalist, classic, rustic – all these styles have signature design elements. A clear theme will help you to coordinate decor across your venue, and may even influence other big decisions. For example, an Art Deco theme would perfectly match a beaded, 1920s-style dress.
2. Think about the venue
Your chosen wedding venue will influence the decor you choose.
Venues with historic buildings often have architectural features that are best paired with a more classical aesthetic. These venues may have decor restrictions around candles, fireworks, or balloons, but this shouldn’t put you off. Instead, see this as an opportunity to elevate your decor designs to complement the historic architecture.
In contrast, outdoor wedding venues already offer plenty of stunning greenery, meaning you won’t be short of floral decorations. Instead, think about bunting or picnic-style table decor.
3. Choose a colour palette
Having a pre-determined colour palette makes decorating for a wedding much simpler. Think about your favourite colours and how they might work together: will they pair with the bridesmaid dresses? Will they clash with the venue? Try to stick to a limited palette, as this will give you the most control and help make those big decisions a little less intimidating.
4. Find your florals
Flowers are a classic centrepiece of wedding decor. Choosing the right blooms enhances your theme, complements your palette, and suits your venue. Popular options to mix and match include:
- Roses: Timeless, romantic, and versatile
- Peonies: Lush and luxurious, perfect for spring weddings.
- Hydrangeas: Great for volume and texture
- Lilies and orchids: Elegant and striking- great for formal settings
Flower arrangements can be costly. Seasonal blooms from local florists are a great way to ensure freshness and keep costs low. Or, choose an outdoor wedding venue with vibrant green lawns, trees and flowers for built-in floral decor.
How much do wedding decorations cost?
Budgeting for wedding decor depends on your style, the venue size, and the complexity of your installations. Basic decorations (sticking to the essentials) can be as little as £200-£500. Floral decorations, lighting and statement table decor can be added on top, bringing decor costs up slightly, whilst high-end or elaborate decor, like large installations or rentals, will see your decor budget increase significantly.
Cost-saving tips:
- Focus on key areas like the ceremony backdrop and main reception tables
- Rent decorative items or buy them second-hand (Top tip: If you’re planning your wedding far in advance, you can collect decor piece-by-piece rather than bulk buying)
- Make the most of what your venue has to offer – historic wedding venues come with built-in atmosphere
- Use seasonal flowers to reduce floral costs, and green spaces as all-natural photo backdrops
Design your dream wedding with RMS Events' wedding venues
If you’re planning a wedding in a historic or Art Deco venue, RMS Events can help turn your vision into reality. Our team specialises in helping couples choose decor solutions for our unique spaces.
From minimalist styles that let the architecture sing to bright and colourful Indian weddings, our spaces can be tailored to a whole range of aesthetics. And for lovers of all things green, our acres of parkland provide the perfect space for floral centrepieces at outdoor weddings.
Whether you’ve got a clear style in mind or are still figuring it out, our team can help you build a celebration truly unique to you.
Get in touch with our team today to find out more about our wedding event spaces in Hertfordshire.