Crafting Wedding Decor: Creative Diy Ideas For Your Big Day

Planning a wedding can be stressful, but creating your own decorations can be a fun and satisfying activity. DIY decorations allow you to add personal touches to your special day and can be a lot cheaper than buying ready-made items. Whether you're a crafting expert or a beginner, there are plenty of ideas to choose from, such as paper flowers, vintage birdcages, and fairy lights. You can also involve your loved ones in the process, making it a fun group activity. So, get your creative juices flowing and start planning those DIY wedding decorations!

DIY centrepieces

Flowers and Greenery

Flowers and greenery are a popular choice for centrepieces and can be easily sourced from a floral shop or grocery store. If you're looking for a cost-effective option, opt for seasonal flowers like hydrangeas, peonies, or football mums, which have large blooms and require fewer stems. You can also use eucalyptus, fern, or ivy to create a rustic or natural look. For a unique twist, try making floating centrepieces by placing flowers and floating candles in cylinders of varying heights.

Candles

Candles can add a romantic and elegant touch to your wedding centrepieces. Consider using taper candles, pillar candles, or votive candles in glass holders. For a colourful display, choose pastel-hued or coloured taper candles in gilded candleholders. If you're feeling creative, you can even paint your own taper candles in your wedding colours.

Fruit and Succulents

Fruit can be a beautiful and unexpected addition to your centrepieces, providing colour, height, and texture. Fill large glass bowls with seasonal fruits like peaches, oranges, or plums, or use citrus fruits for a vibrant pop of colour. Alternatively, succulents and terrariums can be a unique and long-lasting centrepiece idea, bringing a modern or bohemian touch to your tablescape.

Repurposed Items

If you're looking for a more unique and budget-friendly option, try repurposing items you already have. Use ceramics, vases, or lamps from your home that fit your colour scheme and theme. You can also decorate wine bottles by removing the labels or painting table numbers on them. For a literary-themed wedding, stack hardback books as centrepieces, or use vintage furniture or childhood photos to add a personal touch.

Fairy Lights

Fairy lights can create a magical and whimsical atmosphere for your wedding. Hang them above your tables or create a light curtain by clustering them together. For a unique centrepiece, fill terrariums or lanterns with battery-powered fairy lights.

With a bit of creativity and some DIY skills, you can easily make stunning centrepieces that will wow your guests and save you money!

DIY bouquets

Choose your flowers and greenery:

Select flowers and greenery that complement your wedding dress and colour palette. Consider using complementary colours for a subtle look or contrasting colours for a bolder statement. You can source flowers from a local farm, grocery store, or flower market, or even a friend's garden.

Prepare your flowers:

Remove any guard petals, which are the dull or brown outer petals that protect the flowers during transport. Also, remove leaves from the floral stems and the bottom halves of the greenery stems. Cut the stems at a 45-degree angle and keep them in water until you're ready to assemble the bouquet.

Assemble the bouquet:

Start by creating the shape and framework of the bouquet. Use a mirror to help you assemble it so you can see what it looks like from the front. Begin with a base and add larger focal flowers, followed by smaller flowers and greenery. Play around with the arrangement until you're happy with it.

Secure the bouquet:

Once your bouquet is assembled, cut the stems to uniform length, leaving enough length to hold comfortably. Then, secure the stems with a rubber band and floral tape.

Finish with ribbon:

Add a satin ribbon around the base of the bouquet to create a handle and give it a polished look. You can also tie a bow with two ribbons near the handle, leaving a fair amount of excess for a flowing, elegant effect.

Make it special:

Consider adding a charm to your bouquet, such as a vintage trinket or something borrowed. You can also incorporate your birth flower or your partner's birth flower to make it unique. Adding a sentimental colour or your favourite flower can also lend meaning to your bouquet.

Boutonnieres:

For boutonnieres, the key is to keep it simple and remember that less is more. Choose a perfect rose and add a small amount of greenery, such as seeded eucalyptus or baby's breath. Wrap the stems with floral tape and ribbon, and secure them with hot glue.

Timing:

It's best to make your bouquet the day before the wedding. Source your flowers two days before, create the bouquet the day before, and add the final touches, like ribbons, on the wedding day. This ensures the blooms are at their best.

DIY photo backdrops

DIY wedding backdrops are a great way to add a personal touch to your special day. Here are some ideas for creating a beautiful and memorable backdrop for your wedding photos:

Floral Grid Backdrop:

• Grids provide a flexible framework to create a custom backdrop.
• Opt for a simple rectangular grid and dress it up with greenery and flowers.
• You can purchase grid walls on Amazon.
• If you want to prepare in advance, use faux florals.

Circular Grid Backdrop:

• Circular grids have a softer look and are perfect for an elegant backdrop.
• Use a circular grid as a base and attach statement florals.

Twinkling Fairy Light Backdrop:

• Fairy lights are simple, elegant, and easy to put together.
• They are perfect for creating an ethereal wedding backdrop.
• Fairy lights are also very affordable.

Greenery and Floral Hoop Backdrop:

• Create a statement hoop or a collection of hoops with greenery and flowers.
• This backdrop can be easily customized to fit your style.

Minimalist Single Statement Hoop Backdrop:

• Use a gold hoop, your choice of florals, and zip ties to secure the florals to the hoop.
• For a minimal look, focus on a greenery-focused backdrop.

Multiple Layered Hoops with Greenery:

• Use embroidery hoops or spray-painted hula hoops as a base.
• Attach greenery with floral wire or zip ties.

Tapestry Backdrop:

• Tapestries, rugs, and decorated papers make for stunning and effortless DIY backdrops.
• Choose a tapestry that matches your wedding colors and use its accent colors to drive your floral choices.
• You can also use the tapestry as home decor after the wedding.

Seamless Photo Paper Backdrop:

• Seamless photo paper is commonly used by studio photographers and can be easily customized.
• Add your own decorative flair, such as glitter or pastel accents.

Cut and Dyed Pastel Waves Backdrop:

• Cut out fun wave patterns from fabric and layer them for an ocean-like effect.
• Alternatively, use a simple white fabric and dye it in different pastel shades to match your wedding color palette.

Balloon Arch Backdrop:

• Balloon arch kits are fun, playful, and add a pop of color to your wedding ceremony.
• They are also very affordable and easy to set up.

Floral and Industrial Arbor Backdrop:

• Combine a simple industrial arbor with elegant florals.
• Start with a metal piping rectangular arch.

Triangle Arch Backdrop:

• The triangle arch is a popular and easy-to-DIY wedding backdrop.
• It serves as a perfect canvas for florals and beautifully frames the couple.

The Classic Wooden Triangle Arch Backdrop:

• This backdrop uses a wooden triangle and beams to secure the bottom.
• You can assemble it on-site, even for an elopement!

Copper Minimalist Triangle Arch Backdrop:

• For a fresh and modern look, use clean, shiny copper pipes.
• For a classic and timeless look, use copper piping with a patina.

All-White Spray-Painted Triangle Arch Backdrop:

Spray paint the arch and any florals you choose in monochrome shades for a cohesive look.

Double Arch Backdrop:

A double triangle backdrop provides more space for adding floral arrangements.

DIY Backdrops Using Your Wedding Venue:

• Use a statement door as a simple yet stunning archway.
• Decorate a fireplace with florals, greenery, or candles, especially for a winter wedding.
• Adorn stairs with flower arrangements for an elevated backdrop.

Decorative Painted Backdrop:

Use heavy-duty craft paper or wood and create your own hand-painted backdrop.

Colorful Abstract Painted Backdrop:

Sketch your design on plywood or wooden boards and fill it in with paint.

Funky Abstract Geometric Backdrop:

• Use two tall plywood boards as a base and painter's tape to create black line outlines.
• Incorporate different paint colors and a grid for added interest.

Eccentric 70's Vibe Cutout Backdrop:

Use a box cutter or X-Acto knife to cut out shapes from colorful, thick poster paper.

Terra Cotta Desert-Inspired Arch Backdrop:

Create a gorgeous desert-toned arch using thick poster board or plywood.

Using Nature as Your Backdrop:

If you're getting married outdoors, consider using the views as your backdrop.

Tree Drape Backdrop:

Suspend black lanterns and a hoop decorated with florals from a tree.

Repurposed Wall Mural Backdrop:

• Cut a wall mural into panels and hang them with small overlaps to create dimension.
• Add florals and lanterns for a fun touch.

Hanging Silk Ribbon Backdrop:

• Choose different shades of your favorite color or pack a punch with bright hues.
• This backdrop can be customized to match your color palette.

Macrame Backdrop:

Create your own macrame hanging or add florals to a purchased one for a boho vibe.

Elegant Hanging Floral and Flower Wall Backdrops:

Create your own floral wall or purchase one that you can easily put together.

The Ethereal Suspended Rose Floral Backdrop:

Use clear fishing line, an embroidery needle, and roses or carnations for a romantic backdrop.

These ideas should inspire you to create a beautiful and memorable DIY photo backdrop for your wedding. With some creativity and effort, you can make your special day even more unique and personalized.

DIY wedding signs

Wedding signs are a great way to add a personal touch to your wedding decor and can be an easy DIY project. Here are some tips and ideas for creating your own DIY wedding signs:

Materials and Tools

• Foam insulation board
• Spackle and spackling knife
• Exacto knife or box cutter
• Sandpaper
• Primer and paint
• Vinyl lettering
• Wood glue
• Mirror
• Acrylic, wood, chalkboard, or metal
• Thick pen or texta
• Electronic craft machine (e.g. Cricut)
• Large picture frame with glass
• Easel

Steps to Make a DIY Wedding Sign

Step 1: Choose Your Materials

Decide on the material you want to use for your sign. Popular options include acrylic, wood, chalkboard, or mirror. You can also upcycle materials like a mirror or picture frame from your home.

Step 2: Design Your Sign

Sketch, handwrite, or use software like Canva, Photoshop, or Illustrator to design your sign. Etsy is a great source of inspiration for wedding sign ideas.

Step 3: Prepare Your Text

If you're using a Cricut or similar machine, cut out your text. Otherwise, print out any design elements or text you need. If you're tracing, stick your design to the backside of your sign.

Step 4: Assemble Your Sign

Clean your sign with a cloth and spray before adding any text or decorations. If using vinyl lettering, tape it down first to ensure correct placement before sticking it onto the board.

Ideas for Wedding Signs

• Welcome signs: Include the names of the bride and groom, a welcome message, the date, and venue name.
• Table signage: Create table numbers or names using mirrors, acrylic, or wood.
• Menu signs: Display the wedding menu on a chalkboard or mirror sign.
• Seating chart: Instead of individual escort cards, create one easy-to-read sign that denotes each table setting.
• Directional signs: Help guests find their way around the venue by creating directional signs with arrows and fun messages.

DIY chair decorations

Chair decorations are a small but important detail that can elevate the overall aesthetic of your wedding. Here are some DIY ideas for chair decorations to make your big day extra special:

Flowers and Greenery

Flowers and greenery are always a good idea when it comes to wedding decor. Consider these options:

• Floral arrangements: Small, well-placed bouquets with a pinch of greenery can soften modern spaces or add romance to a rustic setting.
• Free-standing flowers: These can be placed on the ground or a nearby table, eliminating the need for hanging arrangements. They're easy to set up and look stunning in photographs.
• Floral chair signs: Hang floral signs at the head table for the bride and groom to add visual interest with geometric shapes, textures, and depths.
• Floral garlands: Drape garlands of flowers and greenery on the backs of your chairs for a whimsical, garden-fresh feel.
• Single stems: For a simpler take on floral decorations, use single stems with vintage bottles or mason jars.
• Chair bouquets: Climbing chair bouquets add life and cheer to the back of each chair. Include greenery to stretch your budget and create a fresh look.
• Baby's breath: For a fairy-tale-like wedding, use sheer tulle with baby's breath flowers attached 6 inches down, which can be easily placed over the shoulder of a chair.
• Wreaths: Drape dramatic wreaths of greenery and flowers, such as a small wreath of cerulean ribbon and green needle, for a natural, nymph-like touch.
• Chair bouquet with ribbon: Knot a long ribbon with a bouquet of greenery and lace-like baby's breath for an elegant and romantic look.
• Tropical leaves: Secure oversized palm leaves or monstera leaves to the backs of the bride and groom chairs for a destination or beach wedding.

Fabric and Ribbons

Fabric and ribbons can add colour, texture, and interest to your chair decorations. Try these ideas:

• Fabric draping: Wrap chairs in different colours and lengths of fabric, using various designs and knots to add visual appeal.
• Tulle: For a fairy-tale effect, use sheer tulle fabric with simple versions of the bridal bouquet attached.
• Ribbons: For a classic chic look, use satin ribbons tied in bows.
• Macrame: Intricate macrame wall hangings can be repurposed as chair covers or sashes, adding an earthy, bohemian touch.
• Blankets: For a winter wedding, drape red plaid blankets over the chairs for a cosy feel.
• Chair covers: Create a unique look by looping and knotting fabric, then secure it with wire to incorporate flowers, shells, or other embellishments.
• Full-coverage drapes: Sheer fabric drapes are perfect for a summer wedding, while heavier fabric can be used for cooler weather.

Signs and Personalisation

Custom signs and personalised touches will make your chairs stand out and celebrate your union:

• Wooden signs: Hang rustic wooden signs with your new prefixes or titles, like "Mrs." and "Mr."
• "Bride" and "Groom" signs: Clearly mark the newlyweds' chosen spots with these signs, available in various custom materials like clear acrylic or gold laser-cut designs.
• Love notes: Add a sweet message to your chair decor, such as "his forever" or "you are my treasure."
• Calligraphy: Use elegant calligraphy to write your chosen sayings or even your wedding vows on the chair decor.
• Initials or monograms: Personalise your chairs with your new initials or monograms, especially if you're using ghost chairs.
• Custom wedding crest: Commission a custom crest and create a 3D version to display on your chairs, like a wreath of greens and white blossoms.
• Language of love: Celebrate your heritage or chosen language by writing sweet nothings in your favourite tongue on the chair decor.
• Mirrors: Create a stunning, expensive-looking element by printing each guest's name and table number on a piece of paper, then sealing it onto a mirror with wax.
• Antique brooch: Incorporate a vintage brooch or pocket watch into your chair decor, especially if it's an heirloom piece.

These DIY chair decoration ideas offer a range of styles, from rustic to modern, and can be tailored to fit your wedding theme and budget. With a bit of creativity and some simple materials, you can make your wedding chairs stand out and create a memorable setting for your special day.

Frequently asked questions