Creating Wedding Decorations: Homemade And Heartfelt

DIY wedding decorations are a great way to save money and add a personal touch to your special day. Whether you're a crafting expert or a beginner, there are plenty of ideas to choose from that can be made at home. From centrepieces and floral arrangements to lighting and seating plans, the possibilities are endless. Not only will you save money, but you'll also be able to create unique and personalised decorations that will wow your guests. So, get your glue guns at the ready and let's get crafting!

DIY floral arrangements

Planning and Sourcing Flowers:

• Create a list of all the places you want floral arrangements, such as bridesmaid bouquets, boutonnieres, centrepieces, and ceremony decorations.
• Develop a basic idea of your floral vision and colour palette. Be flexible and consider using a mix of blooms instead of specific varieties, as flower availability may vary.
• Understand the cost of flowers. Generally, the more expensive flowers include roses, peonies, orchids, and ranunculus, while cheaper options include carnations, mums, and baby's breath.
• Source flowers from local flower farms, grocery stores, online flower delivery services, or grow your own. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of each source, such as availability, variety, and freshness.

Creating Floral Arrangements:

• Gather the necessary tools and supplies, including buckets, flower food, floral tape, ribbon, vases, and scissors or pruning shears.
• Remove leaves and thorns below the waterline, and cut the stems at an angle to promote hydration.
• For bouquets, start by bundling four stems together with floral tape, then add more stems to create the desired shape and size.
• Wrap the finished bouquets with ribbon, burlap, or lace.
• For centrepieces, consider using a mix of flowers and greenery to create a full and cost-effective arrangement.
• Plan to create your floral arrangements a few days before the wedding to ensure the flowers are fresh and allow for any unexpected delays.
• Enlist help from family and friends to make the process more enjoyable and efficient.

Transporting and Storing Flowers:

• Transport flowers in boxes with holes cut out to hold vases and arrangements securely.
• Keep flowers in a cool place out of direct sunlight before the wedding.
• Store flowers in water at all times and change the water if it becomes cloudy.
• Do not put flowers in the refrigerator or freezer, as this can damage them.

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Homemade bunting

Planning Your Bunting

Before you start crafting, there are a few things to consider when planning your bunting:

• Fabric choice: Choose a fabric that complements your wedding theme and colour palette. You can opt for pretty floral prints, glittery material, bold colours, or something more understated like hessian, lace, or paper.
• Length and size of the bunting: Decide how long you want your bunting to be and where you plan to hang it. This will determine the number of flags you need to make. For a dramatic effect, consider creating reams of bunting to make a big impact.
• Template and measurements: Use a template to ensure all your flags are uniform in size and shape. Each flag should be approximately 25x40cm (10x16in). Leave a gap of about 10cm (4in) between each flag.
• String or ribbon: Choose a string or ribbon that coordinates with your fabric. A cotton tape about 2.5cm (1in) wide is a good option. You will need enough length to accommodate your desired number of flags, plus about 30cm (12in) of extra string on each end for tying.

Creating the Flags

• Cut the string to the desired length, adding the extra 30cm (12in) on each end for tying.
• Trace around the bunting flag template and cut it out. This will be your guide for cutting the fabric.
• Cut two pieces of fabric for each flag, measuring 25x20cm (10x8in) each.
• Place the two pieces of fabric right sides (RS) together and pin the flag template centrally on top.
• Cut around the template through both layers of fabric.
• Unpin the template, then pin the two triangles of fabric together.
• Using a sewing machine or hand sewing needle, stitch the two fabric triangles together, leaving the top open. Remember to reverse stitch at the beginning and end to secure the thread.
• Trim the seams to reduce bulk and help the flag lie flatter once turned right side out.
• Snip the bottom point of the fabric about 2mm (1/16in) below the stitching, being careful not to cut the stitches. Taper the fabric edge towards this point to reduce bulk.
• Turn the triangles right side out and press with an iron to create crisp edges.
• Make as many flags as you need by repeating the above steps.

Assembling the Bunting

Now that you have your flags ready, it's time to assemble your bunting:

• Fold the string in half lengthwise with the wrong sides (WS) together and press to create a neat crease down the centre.
• Measure 30cm (12in) from the left side and mark with a pin. This is where your first flag will be placed.
• Unfold the string and place one stitched flag on top, aligning the top of the flag with the fold. Fold the string back down and pin the flag in place.
• Measure 10cm (4in) from the right edge of the first flag and mark with another pin. This is where your next flag will go.
• Continue pinning the flags along the length of the string, maintaining a 10cm gap between each one.
• Turn under the short ends of the string by about 1cm (3/8in) towards the inside of the folded string and pin in place.
• Starting at one end, stitch along the string, making sure to sew through both the front and back of the string and through the flags to secure them in place.

Displaying Your Bunting

Once your bunting is ready, it's time to hang it up and enjoy your handiwork! Here are some ideas for displaying your bunting:

• Drape it across the ceiling or walls of your venue to add colour and texture.
• Hang it outdoors, attaching it to trees or furniture for a scenic backdrop.
• Use it to decorate your wedding cake table, marquee, or village hall for a quaint and traditional touch.
• Mix it with other hanging decorations like lighting, pom-poms, or streamers for a festive and whimsical look.
• Personalise your bunting with letters, numbers, or a sweet message to make it even more special.

Table centrepieces

There are endless ways to create DIY wedding centrepieces that will impress your guests and save you money. Here are some ideas for table centrepieces that you can make at home:

Flowers and Foliage

Arrange flowers or foliage yourself to create a simple yet beautiful centrepiece. You can buy your favourite flowers or foliage from a florist or grocery store, or even pick wildflowers yourself. For a rustic look, use greenery such as eucalyptus or ivy. For a bold statement, group some large, bright flowers like peonies or roses. If you're after something more subtle, try dried flowers or grasses, such as pampas grass, in a vase.

Fruit and Vegetables

An unusual yet effective centrepiece can be made by filling a large glass bowl with colourful fruit or vegetables. Lemons are ideal for a summer wedding, while oranges, grapefruit and lemons are perfect for a winter celebration. Alternatively, create a table runner made of fruit.

Candles

Candles always create a romantic and magical atmosphere. Group your favourite candles, from tea lights to scented pillar candles, on a tray or wooden slice. For a modern twist, paint plain taper candles in colours that match your wedding palette. For a simple yet effective display, place candles inside glass jars or lanterns.

Books and Records

For a unique centrepiece, stack some vintage books or records on the table. If you're using books, tie them with a lace or ribbon. For records, you could choose your favourite vintage albums or select records with covers that match your wedding colours.

Wine Bottles

Save your empty wine bottles and paint them in your wedding colours. Top each bottle with a taper candle, or use them as vases for flowers. You could also remove the labels and decorate the bottles with custom illustrations.

Jars

Collect jam jars and cover them with hessian and lace, then place a candle inside, or fill them with wildflowers. For a colourful touch, paint clear Kilner jars and fill them with flowers, either real or faux.

Chair decorations

Flowers and Greenery

Flowers and greenery are always a popular choice for wedding chair decorations. You can use them to create a romantic and elegant look. Consider using fresh flowers or greenery to decorate the backs of the chairs, or opt for floral garlands and wreaths for a more rustic or garden-fresh feel. Single blooms or small flower arrangements can also be a simple yet effective way to add a pop of colour. For a budget-friendly option, you can use mason jars filled with flowers and attached to the chairs with twine.

Ribbons and Fabric

Ribbons and fabric can be used to create a classic chic look. You can use satin ribbons to tie bows on the chairs, or drape fabric over the backs of the chairs for a more luxurious feel. For a fairy-tale-like wedding, sheer tulle with attached bouquets or floral fabric for a vintage feel can be a great choice.

Signs

Signs are a fun way to designate the newlyweds' chosen spots and can also be used to display sweet messages or your wedding theme. You can use wooden signs with your new nominal prefixes, or opt for clear acrylic ghost chairs with gold laser-cut signs. For a more rustic look, you can hang painted wooden signs with "Mr." and "Mrs." or "Bride" and "Groom."

Balloons

Small heart-shaped balloons or balloons in your wedding colours can be a unique and budget-friendly way to decorate the chairs. Just make sure they are small enough so as not to block the view of guests or photographers.

Chair Covers

If you want to go beyond sashes, consider using macrame or lace chair covers for a vintage or elegant look, respectively. You can also use fabric or linen to create a unique knot design on the backs of the chairs, securing it with wire and adding flowers, greenery, or other embellishments.

Photo booth backdrops

Ribbons and Indoor String Lights

String colourful ribbons and drape indoor string lights on a photo booth stand. You can also add letter buntings for some extra flair.

Giant Balloon Heart

This simple DIY photo booth backdrop can be created using three things: latex balloons, clear string, and clear scotch tape. Choose the balloon colour that matches your wedding colour palette. You can also decorate a few balloons with knotted ribbons.

Fluffy Clouds

This photo booth backdrop will be a fun activity to do with your bridal party. A Practical Wedding has a step-by-step guide.

Cocktail Napkin Flower Garlands

This is a cheap, easy, and pretty DIY. This all-white piece will be a dreamy addition to your wedding.

Suspended Pink Carnations

For a whimsical and romantic photo booth backdrop, suspend carnation garlands. The cascading flowers will give an airy, organic feel to your wedding.

No-Sew Geometric Installation

This photo booth backdrop is made from brightly-patterned fabric and hangs from a freestanding frame. It's easy to transport and set up, with absolutely no sewing required. You can pick out a fabric at your local craft store that fits your wedding theme. A Practical Wedding has a DIY guide.

Wall of Vines

Transform a plain hotel room into a picturesque English summer house with a wall of vines. Prepare to swoon at Ruffled's full tutorial.

Hanging Yarn Drop

This DIY is simple and can be done in an afternoon. No need for macramé skills—all you need is a pot of tea! Check out Ruffled for the full tutorial.

Lace Canvass

Mix and match your favourite lace in patterns and colours for this custom-made backdrop. Source your lace from local vintage stores or flea markets. You can add paper wedding flowers to the fabric to make it prettier. Green Wedding Shoes has a full guide.

Ombré Tissue Paper Wall

Use a professional photo backdrop frame or make your own with PVC pipes. This photo booth backdrop will transform a drab wall into a super interesting one.

Giant Paper Flower Garden

This is a challenging DIY project that will reward you with your wedding guests' delight. Transform any space into a giant fairy-tale garden with this DIY from Design Sponge.

Frequently asked questions