Creating Magical Wedding Table Decorations: A Step-By-Step Guide

Wedding decorations can be expensive, but there are plenty of DIY options that will save you money and give your wedding a personal touch. From simple, rustic arrangements to more complex projects, there are endless possibilities for creating homemade centrepieces, signs, flowers, and other decorative elements. For example, you could fill painted lanterns with photos of the couple, create a floral arrangement in a recycled perfume bottle, or use a tree stump as a base for your centrepiece. You could even make your own paper flowers or create a picnic atmosphere with pretty banners and string lights.

DIY centrepieces

Flowers and Greenery

• Single-variety floral arrangements: Choose your favourite flowers and arrange them in their own vases or jars. This is an easy and cost-effective way to create beautiful centrepieces.
• Wildflowers: For a garden-fresh look, pick wildflowers from your own garden or a meadow and arrange them in vases.
• Dried flowers: In the winter, when fresh flowers may be harder to come by, dried flowers or tissue paper flowers are a great alternative. They can add a whimsical or rustic touch to your centrepieces.
• Eucalyptus: Skip the flowers and opt for the soft, natural elegance of eucalyptus. Pair it with white table linens, candles, and gold accents for a stylish look.
• Garden foliage: Scented geraniums, herbs, and other types of foliage arranged in hand-painted pots make charming and easy-to-create centrepieces.

Candles

• Geometric wooden candleholders: Transform wooden blocks into modernist centrepieces with a quick trip to the hardware store and a coat of paint.
• Colourful candleholders: Spray-paint wooden candleholders of varying heights to match candles in the same hues for a festive and colourful centrepiece.
• Hardware candle centrepiece: Use a slab of stone tile as a runner and insert candlesticks and tea lights into mix-and-match copper-coloured hardware.
• Tiered bowl centrepiece: Fill tiered bowls with goldenrod, mimosa, craspedia balls, olive leaves, kumquats, lemons, and sprigs of lavender for a bold and cheery statement piece.

Other Ideas

• Vintage records: For music-loving couples, vintage records make cool and unique centrepieces. You can even have them personalised or use them as table names after your favourite tracks.
• Lanterns: Source metal-rimmed lanterns and place votive candles inside. For a modern affair, choose black edges with coordinating chargers and glassware.
• Fruit bowl: Fruit adds colour, height, and texture to your centrepieces. Fill large glass bowls with peaches, oranges, and cherries for a sunset-inspired colour scheme, or choose fruit that matches your colour palette.
• Books: Stack vintage books or hardcover books as centrepieces, especially if you're having a literary-themed celebration.
• Wine bottles: Remove the labels from wine bottles and use them as simple yet elegant centrepieces. You can also add custom-made illustrations to the bottles.

Upcycling items for decorations

Glass Bottles and Jars

Old glass bottles and jars can be transformed into elegant table decorations with a little creativity and some simple tools. Clean and prepare the bottles, removing any labels and adhesive residue. Measure and mark the desired height, then cut the bottles using a glass cutting tool. Smooth the edges with a grinding stone, then decorate with paint, stencils, or markers. You can use them as vases for flowers, or fill them with fairy lights for a magical touch. Glass bottles can also be used as table numbers by writing the numbers on the bottles or tying on tags.

Tin Cans

Tin cans, such as those from coffee or other beverages, can be upcycled into charming centrepieces or vases. Clean and remove the labels, then paint the cans with gold or metallic paint for a glamorous look. You can also wrap them with twine, lace, or ribbon for a rustic feel. Fill them with flowers or greenery, or use them to hold candles. Tin cans are a versatile and budget-friendly option for wedding table decorations.

Books

For the bookworms, stacking hardcover books as centrepieces can be a unique way to showcase your love of literature. For a vintage or literary-themed wedding, old books with interesting covers or dust jackets can add a touch of charm. You can also wrap books in soft lace and pearls for a romantic, elegant look.

Paper and Cardboard

Old paper and cardboard can be upcycled into various decorations, such as bunting, garlands, and table numbers. For a simple and effective look, create paper cones to serve starters or appetizers. You can also make DIY signs for seating charts, welcome signs, or menus, saving money and adding a personal touch. Fairy lights and origami decorations made from old newspapers can also add a whimsical and eco-friendly touch to your wedding tables.

Crockery and Cutlery

Mixing and matching vintage crockery and cutlery can create a unique and eclectic tablescape. Look for second-hand items at thrift stores, flea markets, or even in your own cupboards! Old silver teapots and antique glassware can be painted and used as centrepieces, or filled with flowers or candles. Gold paint or spray can transform simple glassware into elegant candle holders or vases.

Using natural elements

Flowers and Greenery:

• Incorporate plenty of greenery, such as eucalyptus, ivy, or ferns, to add a natural and organic touch.
• For a whimsical and romantic feel, choose wildflowers in varying shades of blush, ivory, and green.
• Herbs like lavender or rosemary can add a sweet fragrance to your arrangements.
• Dried flowers and pampas grass can also be used for a rustic or bohemian vibe.

Wood and Natural Materials:

• Use wooden accents, such as rustic tables, hand-crafted signs, or tree trunk centrepieces, to bring a touch of warmth and natural texture.
• Natural materials like rattan, burlap, or twine can be used to decorate or tie bouquets.
• For a beach or tropical theme, use natural elements like shells, sand, or coconut halves.

Candles and Lighting:

• Candles create a romantic and warm ambiance. Use tea lights, pillar candles, or taper candles in candlesticks.
• Fairy lights or soft lighting fixtures can also be used to create a cozy and intimate atmosphere.

Centrepieces and Table Runners:

• Unique centrepieces like fruit displays, floral chandeliers, or terrariums can make a statement.
• Table runners can add a pop of colour or texture. Try using lace, burlap, or sequins depending on your theme.
• For a simple yet elegant look, opt for a single type of flower or greenery in a tall vase or container.

Remember, when using natural elements, consider your wedding theme and colour scheme to create a cohesive look. You can also mix and match different natural elements to create a personalised and memorable wedding table decoration.

Choosing eco-friendly materials

When it comes to choosing eco-friendly materials for your wedding table decorations, there are several options to consider that will not only reduce your environmental impact but also create a beautiful and unique setting for your special day. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Choose Sustainable and Local Flowers:

• Opt for sustainably grown, local flowers instead of exotic imports or fake blooms. While faux flowers may be cheaper, they create unnecessary waste and often lack the natural beauty of real flowers.
• Visit your local flower farm or market to source seasonal blooms that will not only look stunning but also reduce the carbon footprint associated with shipping.
• If you're feeling creative, you can even grow your own flowers in advance or use potted plants as centrepieces, which can later be given away as favours.

Reusable and Biodegradable Decorations:

• Instead of single-use plastic decorations, opt for reusable or biodegradable alternatives. Rice paper lanterns, cotton fabric bunting, and macramé glass jars are excellent choices that can be used again and again.
• If you're crafty, you can DIY your own bunting from old fabric pieces or create centrepieces from recycled materials, such as gin bottles.
• Biodegradable balloons made from natural latex are also a better option than traditional balloons, as they decompose much quicker.

Eco-Friendly Tableware and Flatware:

• Say no to single-use dishes, flatware, and napkins. Rent reusable tableware, cutlery, and cloth linens from your venue or an external company. Your guests will appreciate the more elegant and environmentally friendly option.
• If disposable options are necessary, choose recyclable or compostable materials. Biodegradable corn straws, for example, are a great alternative to paper or plastic straws.

Creative Place Cards and Menus:

• Get creative with your place cards and menus by using leaves, geodes, or potted plants. You can etch or paint your guests' names on these natural elements, which can later be composted or given as favours.
• For the menu, chalkboards offer a reusable and charming alternative to printed paper menus.

Shop Second-Hand:

Enhance your tablescape with second-hand accessories like vintage books, clocks, or other unique knick-knacks. You can also look for mix-and-match centrepiece vessels to add a touch of personality to your tables.

Remember, choosing eco-friendly materials for your wedding table decorations is not only better for the environment but can also result in beautiful, personalised details that your guests will admire and appreciate.

Making paper flowers

Paper flowers are a great way to add a unique, playful, and colourful touch to your wedding table decorations. They are also a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to fresh flowers. Here is a step-by-step guide to making paper flowers for your wedding table:

Materials:

• Paper: You can use various types of paper, such as crepe paper, tissue paper, or cardstock. Choose a colour or pattern that fits your wedding theme.
• Scissors
• Glue
• Floral wire or pipe cleaners
• Tape
• Christmas balls or other decorative centres (optional)

Instructions:

• Cut the paper into petal shapes. You can make them all the same size or vary the sizes for a more natural look.
• Optionally, use scissors to fringe the edges of the petals to create a textured look.
• Curl the petals gently with your fingers to give them a more realistic shape.
• Layer the petals to form the flower shape, using glue or tape to secure them together.
• Attach a floral wire or pipe cleaner to the centre of the flower for the stem. You can wrap the wire with tape or paper to create a neater look.
• Add a decorative centre to the flower, such as a Christmas ball or a pom-pom.
• Create leaves by cutting leaf shapes from green paper and attaching them to the stem.
• Arrange your paper flowers in vases, jars, or directly on the table as part of a table runner or place setting.

You can make paper flowers in advance, making them a convenient option for wedding preparations. They can also be a fun project to do with your wedding party or family.

Frequently asked questions