Creating An Elegant Wedding: Tips For A Stylish Celebration

Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, especially if you want to achieve an elegant look without breaking the bank. However, it is possible to create a luxurious wedding on a budget with some creativity and careful planning. From DIY backdrops and affordable lighting options to small tweaks like elegant table runners and napkin folds, there are numerous ways to add a touch of elegance to your special day. Whether it's choosing artificial flowers, creating your own invitations, or opting for a simple cake, you can have a classy and stylish wedding without sacrificing your dream vision.

Table runners

If you're going for a rustic theme, try a DIY burlap table runner. Cut the burlap to size, allowing enough to drape over the sides of the table, and then hem the edges or leave them frayed for a more rustic look. You can also add a personal touch by hand-painting a monogram, the couple's initials, or a special message for your guests. Another idea for a rustic wedding is to use a collection of material doilies connected by a few well-placed stitches, adding an ornate design and texture to the table setting.

For a simple yet effective look, opt for a lace table runner. With so many intricate and unique lace patterns to choose from, you can find one that speaks to your personality or mix it up with a different pattern on each table. A black and white stripe table runner is another elegant option that will instantly elevate your wedding tables. Pair it with a few hot pink flower buds and votive candles for a stylish and affordable setup.

If you're feeling more creative, try making a greenery table runner. Gather supplies like Italian Ruscus, green ivy, tree fern, seeded eucalyptus, and your choice of flowers. Layout your greenery on the table, bundling and wiring the stems together to create a garland. Then, add texture by wiring pieces of seeded eucalyptus to the garland. Finally, cut and wire the flower stems to create posies, which you can then wire along the garland, spacing them out evenly.

For a unique and playful option, consider a DIY chalkboard table runner. You can use it to display a handwritten menu, a message for your guests, or even write the names of each guest at their reserved place on the runner.

With so many table runner ideas to choose from, you can easily add a touch of elegance to your wedding reception.

Balloons

Backdrops and Arches

Create stunning backdrops and arches by using balloons to cover an entire wall, or try a floor-to-ceiling balloon installation. Opt for a singular colour palette with varying balloon sizes, or go bold with a rainbow balloon arch. For a unique touch, incorporate flowers, foliage, or tassels into your balloon backdrop.

Centrepieces and Table Decor

Add height and visual interest to your reception tables by including balloons in your centrepieces. Oversized balloons or floating balloons connected by garlands will make a statement without being too over-the-top. For a more elegant look, consider using giant orb balloons or white latex balloons.

Aisle and Chair Decor

Line the wedding aisle with giant balloons or tie balloons to each chair for a memorable and whimsical touch. For an extra-special detail, have your flower girl carry a single balloon down the aisle instead of a flower bouquet.

Wedding Signs

Make your wedding signs stand out by adding balloons to them. This will ensure your guests notice important information while also adding a festive touch to your decor.

Wedding Photos

With so many creative ways to use balloons, you can add a unique and elegant touch to your wedding while keeping your budget in check.

Wedding backdrop

• Nature-inspired backdrops: If your wedding venue is surrounded by natural beauty, such as a coastline, a lake, a grove of trees, or a mountain range, consider incorporating these elements into your backdrop. For example, a simple wooden arch or a floral installation can complement the natural scenery.
• Floral backdrops: Flowers are a classic choice for wedding backdrops. You can use flower walls, floral garlands, or flower arrangements of varying sizes to create a romantic and elegant atmosphere.
• Architectural backdrops: Take advantage of the architectural features of your venue. A dramatic doorway, a grand staircase, or a decorative window can provide an elegant backdrop for your wedding photos.
• Balloon installations: Balloons are not just for kids' parties! With sophisticated colour schemes and thoughtful designs, balloons can add a perfect combination of beauty and fun to your wedding backdrop.
• String lights: Fairy lights, Edison bulbs, or specialty-shaped lights can add a whimsical and enchanting element to your backdrop. Combine them with floral garlands, arches, or other structural elements for a unique look.
• Paper lanterns: Paper lanterns in various sizes and colours can add a delicate glow and a lively pop of colour to your wedding photos. Hang them against a wall or from the ceiling at varying heights for a decorative installation.
• Neon signage: The glow of neon lights brings a unique vibe to your photo backdrop. You can use them to spell out a romantic phrase or symbol, such as "I'm Yours" or neon hearts and wedding bands.
• Personalised backdrops: Match your backdrop to your wedding decor. Consider a custom neon sign, a floral tapestry, or a wooden sign with your new last name.
• Pom-pom backdrops: Add life and vibrancy to your wedding with a colourful pom-pom backdrop that is easy to hang and sure to make a statement.
• Fabric draping: Use fabric such as chiffon or burlap to drape over a garden arbor or archway. Different types of fabric can add a soft, romantic touch or a rustic feel to your backdrop.

Wedding chair covers

There are many different types of chair covers to choose from, and the right one for you will depend on the style of chair you have and the look you want to achieve. Banquet chair covers are a popular choice for weddings, and they come in various materials and colours. Spandex banquet chair covers have a sleek and modern look, while polyester covers are durable and easy to maintain. If you're looking for something more upscale, satin banquet chair covers lend a touch of class with their smooth, glossy fabric.

If you're looking for something more universal, Chiavari chairs are a timeless and elegant choice. Their narrow design also makes them a space-saving option. Chiavari chair covers come in various materials, including spandex, glitz sequin, payette sequin, mesh, and curly willow designs.

Spandex chair covers are another modern and chic option, as they are made of premium stretchable material that fits any type of chair without wrinkling. They are also cost-effective and hassle-free for decorators. Polyester chair covers are another versatile and stylish option, bringing an air of sophistication and professionalism to your venue. They are durable, wrinkle-resistant, and come in a range of colours to match any colour scheme or theme.

Chair sashes and bands are also a great way to add style to any chair. They come in a wide range of styles and colours to represent your theme. For a more formal look, consider chair sashes or bands that match your event's theme.

Wedding stationery

Planning and Design

Before you begin designing your wedding stationery, it is important to have a clear vision of what you want. Consider your wedding aesthetic and colour scheme, and choose a design and illustrations that complement them. Decide on a tone that reflects your wedding style and your personality, whether it be traditional or conversational. If you're having a black-tie affair, a formal tone would be appropriate.

You can design your invitations yourself using software like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, or InDesign, or beginner-friendly options like Canva or Microsoft Word. Alternatively, you can purchase premade templates from online companies like Minted, Shutterfly, or Zazzle, or hire a designer on Etsy to customise a template for you.

Paper and Printing

The type of paper you choose will impact the look and feel of your invitations. Uncoated cardstock is the most popular choice, offering a high-quality, luxurious look and durable feel. For a more textured look, you can opt for paper with a cotton, linen, or felt finish. Visit a specialty stationery or print shop to feel different types of paper and choose the best size and weight for your printer. Take samples home to test on your printer before making a final decision.

If you're printing your invitations at home, ensure your printer can handle the weight and size of your chosen paper. Most standard printers can accommodate cardstock up to 80 pounds. If you don't have a printer, you can send your files to a larger printer at stores like Costco or Office Depot, or use a printing service.

Embellishments and Assembly

To elevate your invitations, consider adding embellishments like ribbons, wax seals, envelope liners, gold leaf, lace, or faux flowers. These details will make your invitations stand out and reflect your wedding theme.

Assemble your invitations by placing any inserts inside the corresponding envelopes, sealing them, and adding any final adornments.

Mailing

Before mailing your invitations, visit the post office to determine the correct postage, which will depend on the weight and number of invitations. Hand-cancelling your invitations can help avoid potential ripping or damage during delivery. Address your envelopes by hand for a personal touch, or use printed labels. It is recommended to send your invitations out six to eight weeks before your wedding day.

Frequently asked questions