Wedding Decor to Splurge On!

 It’s no secret that weddings can break the bank. On top of that, the pressure of having a Pinterest-perfect wedding can make brides and grooms feel like they have to have it all. If you try to incorporate each and every idea you’ve pinned into your wedding, not only will you spend way too much money, but you’re going to stress yourselves out during a time you should be enjoying.

While most money-saving wedding decor hacks are strictly about saving money, our Wedding Wingman Ashley McHone of Always Flawless Planning & Design is here to tell you to do the opposite and think quality over quantity. Here, four things to splurge on to get the most bang for your buck in your ceremony and reception decor.

Your Arch

Your arch is the backdrop of your vow exchange. Not only will everyone’s attention be directed at it, but a lot of your photos will take place in front of it, so make it wow-worthy!

Talk to your wedding planner about finding an arch that fits your wedding vision. In Jewish weddings, the arch is more of a canopy or a chuppah. It acts as a symbol of God’s presence at the wedding, and the four poles that outline the structure represent the new home of the newlyweds.

In Hindu or Jain weddings, ceremonies take place under a Mandap, or a covered structure with pillars and a canopy that forms a sacred space. The four pillars represent the four parents of the newlyweds.

With your arch being a focal point, it should be a reflection of your wedding theme and fit in with the natural surroundings of your venue. If a traditional arch isn’t your style, look into arbors, canopies, gazebos, or geometric structures. Your arch can be a DIY project if you’re up for it, or have a florist come in and work their magic. 

Your Sweetheart Table

Similar to the role of your arch in your ceremony, your sweetheart table is going to be the focal point of your reception. The table is where newlyweds sit facing their guests at their wedding reception. 

Many couples love incorporating a sweetheart table because it allows them to take a step back and share the intimate moment of getting married together as a couple. Not only should you upgrade your sweetheart table because you deserve it, but it will be the setting for a lot of your reception photos.

Unique Chairs

Instead of your standard folding chair, choose something that will stand out. Upgrading dining chairs to something that you’d have in your house can take your wedding to the next level. 

If you’re going for a glam look, look into chairs with gold or silver accents. If you’re considering upgrading your chairs, talk to your wedding planner. They can help you find a chair that will best match your theme.

Extra Details

If you’re looking to spend money on decor items themselves that will make the biggest impression, Ashley suggests adding extra floral or extra lighting. Florals are a great way to bring life into your wedding and add subtle hints to your color scheme. 

Lighting is a great way to set the tone for your wedding. If you’re able to spend a little bit more on lighting, you can choose to forgo overhead lighting. This allows you to be in control of the lighting and use it to change the vibe of your venue as the night progresses.

For example, candlelight can give a romantic tone to dinner while dimmed lighting and colored lights can signal guests it’s time to head over to the dance floor. Check out our blog on 7 Wedding Lighting Ideas To Transform Your Venue.