Creative Diy Wedding Centerpieces On A Budget

how to make a cheap wedding centerpieces

Wedding centrepieces can be expensive, especially if you have a lot of guests and tables to decorate. But there are plenty of ways to make your wedding day look spectacular without breaking the bank. If you're willing to get creative, you can make your own centrepieces that are not only inexpensive but also unique and personalised. From painted wine bottles to vintage teacups, the possibilities are endless. You can even repurpose everyday items like books or wine bottles, or opt for simple yet elegant solutions like candles or fairy lights. With a bit of time and effort, you can create DIY centrepieces that will wow your guests and save you money.

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DIY centrepieces with painted bottles

Abstract Painted Bottles:

This idea is perfect if you want to add a creative and artistic touch to your wedding tables. All you need are some wine bottles and paint in your chosen colours. Simply use a few upward brush strokes of paint to create an abstract design that looks straight out of an art studio. You can also try blending multiple shades of a single colour to create a beautiful ombre effect or experiment with geometric shapes and patterns for a modern and contemporary style.

Map Collage Wine Bottles:

If you want to incorporate a travel theme or pay tribute to places you've visited, this idea is for you. Collect some maps and paste them onto recycled wine bottles. You can also add some flowers to complete the look.

Gold Wine Bottles:

For a glamorous and elegant touch, try spray painting your wine bottles with metallic gold paint. This idea is perfect for a wedding with a gilded or luxurious theme.

Flower Vases:

Turn your painted bottles into beautiful flower vases by filling them with wildflowers, single-stem flowers, or even paper flowers. You can also add some water and a few flower stems to create a simple yet elegant display.

Candle Holders:

Another way to use painted bottles is to turn them into candle holders. Place taper candles inside the bottles and add some greenery or flowers around the base for a romantic and elegant touch. You can also try using floating candles in water-filled bottles for a unique look.

When creating these centrepieces, it's important to give yourself enough time and be realistic about what you can achieve. Crafting can be time-consuming, so start your projects early to avoid stress. Also, don't be afraid to ask for help from creative friends or family members.

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Tabletop lanterns

  • Candle Lanterns: Place candles inside the lantern and decorate the outside with flowers.
  • Lanterns with Flowers: Place flowers inside the lantern either before or after the wedding, depending on whether you want them to be visible at first glance.
  • Elegant White Lanterns: White lanterns are versatile and can be used as centrepieces or as part of your décor. They stand out against a darker background and can be easily found at party supply stores.
  • Rustic Wooden Lanterns: For a rustic or outdoor wedding, choose lanterns made of wood or metal and pair them with natural elements such as moss, twigs, or wildflowers. You can also add a vintage touch with antique lanterns or a distressed finish. Use a variety of shapes, sizes, colours and materials to create different effects.
  • Mix and Match: Don't be afraid to mix and match different lantern styles and sizes to create a unique and eclectic look.
  • Add Personal Touches: Customise your lanterns by adding photos, monograms, or quotes that are meaningful to you and your partner.
  • Use LED Candles: If your venue does not allow open flames, use LED candles instead of real ones.
  • Surround with Flowers: Surround your lanterns with baby's breath or another simple, cheap flower for maximum effect.

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Garlands of greenery

For a rustic look, source some long wooden banquet tables and decorate them with long eucalyptus garlands, pillar candles, and green water goblets. Eucalyptus is a popular choice for wedding decor, with its wispy, long branches, and there are several varieties to choose from. You can also add olive branches to your eucalyptus garlands for a Tuscany-inspired spin.

If you're looking for a more formal look, dress up long banquet tables with white linens, taper candles, and giant greenery garlands that drape onto the floor. For a vintage-themed wedding, add miniature hurricane lanterns and votive candles to your greenery arrangements.

You can also use garlands of greenery to decorate mantles, shelves, and doorways, as well as tables. For a spring or summer garland, mix lamb's ear with eucalyptus. You can also add in spring flowers for a dough bowl filler. For a winter wedding, consider interspersing pine boughs and pinecones with your greenery garlands.

If you're handy, you could even make your own garlands. Artificial garlands can be purchased or you can make your own using fresh foliage. Just remember to give yourself plenty of time to make them and be realistic about how much you can get done.

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Branches as centrepieces

Branches can be a great way to create a unique, inexpensive, and elegant wedding centerpiece. Here are some ideas for how to use branches as wedding centerpieces:

Sourcing the Branches

Before you start crafting your centerpieces, you'll need to source the branches. Head out on a walk in the countryside and keep your eyes peeled for pretty branches that can be used as decor. Look for branches that are dry and sturdy, with interesting shapes or textures.

Decorating the Branches

Once you've found your branches, the fun part begins! There are many ways to decorate them to fit your wedding theme:

  • Wrap the branches with fairy lights. This will create a magical and romantic atmosphere at your reception.
  • Spray paint the branches in a metallic gold or silver for a chic and modern look.
  • For a festive touch, decorate the branches with painted eggs or baubles.
  • Wrap the branches with fabric or seam binding and add fabric blooms for a minimalist and elegant look.
  • If your wedding has a natural or rustic theme, leave the branches undecorated to showcase their natural beauty.

Displaying the Branches

Now it's time to decide how to display your branch centerpieces. Here are some ideas:

  • Place the branches in tall vases or jars, filling the containers with pebbles, sand, or water to help them stand upright.
  • For a whimsical touch, hang small decorations or garlands from the branches.
  • If you want to add flowers, opt for single stems in bud vases placed among the branches.
  • For a rustic look, display the branches on a wooden slice or a piece of driftwood.
  • Surround the branches with candles of varying heights for a romantic and elegant atmosphere.

Other Tips

When creating your branch centerpieces, keep the following in mind:

  • Give yourself plenty of time to source the branches and create the centerpieces, especially if you're making multiple pieces.
  • Be realistic about the level of crafting skill required and the time it will take. Simple decorations are often the most elegant.
  • If you're using fresh branches, create the centerpieces close to the wedding day to ensure they stay fresh.
  • If you're using fairy lights, opt for battery-powered, cordless lights for safety and ease of display.

With these ideas and tips, you can create beautiful and inexpensive branch centerpieces that will wow your wedding guests!

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Wooden planters

If you're looking for a rustic-chic wedding, wooden planters can be a great way to save on your florist bill. You can pick up wooden planters in various sizes and stains from garden centres, which will often have pre-planted arrangements for you to choose from.

For a simple DIY project, you can make your own mini planter boxes with wood glue, spray paint, cut wood, nails, and sandpaper. Drill holes in the bottom of the boxes to help with drainage, and finish with a rustic, weathered look by sanding the sides. You can dress up your wooden boxes with twine and mini wooden tags, or even add a personal touch with laser-engraved photo blocks.

For a beach wedding, a vintage teal wooden box can add a splash of sea blue, while an antique distressed white wooden box can add romance to a barn reception. You can also mix and match colours and sizes for a unique, eye-catching look. Fill your wooden planters with greenery, succulents, or fresh herbs for a natural, eco-friendly touch.

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