1. DIY String Lights
You can use white Christmas lights too if you don't like the colored look. Borrow some from the family! A pack of 144 ping pong balls is $13 on Amazon. Now you don't have to shovel out money to rent or buy string lights.
2. Flowers to Toss
Instead of buying petals from a flower shop (can someone say expensive?), start collecting flowers at least one month before the wedding. These can be from your backyard, the side of the road, etc. Hang them up to dry upside down. Once dry, you have perfectly dried petals for guests to toss during the recessional. And it's free!
Here's a great video tutorial by ModernMom on how to make those paper cones!
3. Photo Booth Backdrop
For the frame:
- You can purchase PVC pipe at your local home improvement store. This cost less than $20 to make!
- Or just find a blank wall and attach your backdrop with thumbtacks or Command Strips.
For the backdrop:
4. Candy Buffet
Buy assorted vases and candlesticks from Dollar Tree, paint the candlesticks, glue the vases to the top of them and voila! You have adorable candy holders. You can buy candy in bulk (in specific colors if you want) from Candy Direct! Purchase some favor bags from Dollar Tree as well and your guests now have a favor to take home. How perfect is that?
5. Make Your Own Trees
To add a little nature and soft lighting, all you'll need are pots, thick branches (find some in the woods or trim a tree of yours), lights, spray foam and moss to cover the foam (you can purchase bags of moss for $3 at Walmart).
6. Paper Lanterns
You can buy them in bulk for pretty cheap at The Paper Lantern Store. This will allow you to create the perfect lighting for your reception without breaking the bank by hiring someone to uplight your space.
7. Sparkler Exit
Sparklers Online sells them in bulk for a great price. Their 36 inch sparklers last up to four minutes! Perfect amount of time to get a few great pictures.
8. Pomanders (Or As I Call Them, "Those Flower Ball Things")
Just buy a styrofoam ball, some ribbon, straight pins and fake flowers and you're good to go! You can use these as aisle decor, centerpieces, bouquets, etc. The Ornament Girl has a quick and easy tutorial for you to check out! For a more natural look, use real flowers.
9. For Just the Right Amount of Shine
Adding hints of sparkle to your wedding will make your decor pop in just the right way. Spray paint some baby's breath gold or sprinkle glitter on a branch using mod podge. Use them as part of your centerpieces and you've got the perfect touch of shimmer.
10. Paint Chip Escort Cards
Paint chips are free at stores like Lowes and Home Depot. Plus they come in all sorts of colors, so you can match them to your theme! Why not use them as escort cards if you're having assigned seating? Write the names of your guests and the table numbers on each and you're good to go!
- Adina