Category

Decor

Category

Trends are ever-changing in the wedding world. If you’re looking for inspiration or maybe want to avoid what’s being overdone, then have a look at what’s trending in the wedding world of decor and food. Whatever the reason, these trends are great ideas or additions to your wedding.

Decor

Coral

It’s the colour of the year! What’s more trendy than that? Trendiness aside, it really is a beautiful colour. What’s really nice is, it’s feminine without being ‘that typical’. You can use coral as your accents of colour.

Balloon backdrops

Flower backdrops are out and balloons are in. Use it to make a statement or fun photo back-drop.

Non traditional and traditional colour palettes

Some couples tend to stick to the norm while others are making use of ‘edgy’ colour schemes.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

This morning I shared some stories about the Amazon rainforest -(very briefly though because I am off to Cadiz tomorrow to start round 2 of the wedding season and I’ve only just finished for the day!) – I feel overwhelmed by the coverage on my news feed, together people are waking up, getting involved and showing their support. @darkmaito is giving away a private mentorship for everyone who collaborates with @wwfspain and he has lost count of the number of entries he has received today! This is just one example, so many of you out there are doing everything in your hands to protect and restore our planet and this means everything. . Saying goodnight and leaving you with a warm earthy place setting and optimistic vibes ✨ . Photographer @darkmaito

A post shared by Opi ⌖ Wedding Planner Spain (@openthedoorevents) on

Royal flowers

Even though balloons are in, some couples are incorporating a little ‘royal affair’. Ever since Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s royal wedding, making use of  big flower installations are in! The royal couple had a beautiful and dramatic flower-filled entrance. Ellie Goulding followed this royal trend too!

Smoke bombs

It makes for great pictures. Remember a couple years back when the in thing was to have your guests hold sparklers as you kiss your partner and the camera goes off? Now it’s smoke bombs!

 

View this post on Instagram

 

Totally in love with this!!!@bekkamabaudi⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Hair and make up: shell sullivan make up⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Flowers: @perfect_day_wedding_flowers ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Dress shop: @purecouturebridal ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Dress designer: @essenseofaustralia ofaustralia⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Suits: @fogartyformalhire ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Bridesmaids dresses @nabbd ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Venue: @latimer_estate_weddings_ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #katiehamiltonphotography #weddingphotographyinspiration #bravegreatphoto #bridalparty #inspiredbythis #instaweddings #oxfordwedding #oxfordshireweddingphotographer #oxfordshirewedding #cotswoldswedding #cotswoldsweddingphotographer #cotswoldsweddingvenue #weddinginspiration #wanderlustwedding #theknot #junebugweddings #justengaged #bride2019 #wedaward #weddingmoments #weddingphotography #vscowedding #lookslikefilm #onefabday #isaidyes #bridebook #happilyeverafter #rockmywedding #weddinginspo #weddingsmokebomb

A post shared by katiehamiltonphotography (@katiehamiltonphotography) on

Food

Speciality food trucks

Food trucks have been trending in general so there’s no reason why your wedding can’t feature them either. Since they’re so popular, there’s a variety of different kinds available. From food to bars to dessert!

Statement cakes

Couples seem to be reviving the old trend of wedding cakes as a ‘centrepiece’. Weddings are starting to feature big and bold statement wedding cakes again.

Banquets and harvest tables

If food trucks aren’t your thing but you don’t want to stick with the norm of sit down or buffet dinners, then how about Banquets and harvest tables? They look so grand and your guests will be able to choose from a variety of dishes.

Gin bars

Gin is in! Well, it has been for a while and it still is. So incorporating a gin bar where people can customise their cocktail is a really funky and great idea. You can have a few gin options available along with different mixers.

Picture: Unsplash

Who said garlands were just for the table? Take your decor to new heights with greenery installations – one of our favourite trends at the moment. Normally decor is focused on eye-level, but what about accessorising the higher spaces with lush greens as well. You can change the whole feel of the space with something as simple (and budget-friendly) as leaves and vines. Take a look:

 

View this post on Instagram

 

Feeling a little under the weather after spending last week up a slippery ladder hanging onto a tipi pole with rain pouring down my face, the immune system has taken a bit of a hit. Then @agnes.black sends me this beauty and suddenly everything seems more than OK! Just wow ? I’ll be back on emails tomorrow after some much needed R&R, thanks for your patience everyone! @fivefourstudios @hollyrussell_1 @innercityweddings @hipswinguk @pinkcocoa_sarah #hangingfoliage #hangingflowers #foliagewedding #hanginggreenery #floralinstallation #greenerywedding #suspendedgreenery #suspendedfoliage #coolbride #tablerunner #floraldecor #statementflowers #tablegreenery #underthefloralspell #flowerstyle #manchesterflorist #cheshireflorist #overheadfoliage #weddingflowers #modernbride #alternativeflowers #topteble #weddingreception #spanishmoss #weddingdecor #floralstyling #manchesterweddingflowers #cascadingflowers #floralart

A post shared by S A S S F L O W E R (@sassflower) on

One of the best things about incorporating greenery into your decor, is the affordability. It’s a budget-friendly ‘floral’ option and you can even do it yourself! You only need to purchase the greenery, wire or fixtures, and do some research on how to build it.

You can buy wire, a floral hoop and a variety of greenery, and easily create a heavenly leafy green chandelier. It comes down to your entwining skills and a whole lot of securing. Alternatively, your florist will be able to make, or help you with, bigger projects. Think big! High ceilings + a big trellis = winner combo!

 

View this post on Instagram

 

This magical setting is giving us ALL of the heart eyes! ? Beautiful work by @weddingconceptsusa @okasie @somethingdifferentza ?⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ? @hewittwrightphotographer⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ .⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #weddinglighting #pendantlighting #industrialwedding #organicwedding #modernwedding #weddinginstallation #weddingstyling #weddingstylist #weddingtables #weddingreception #weddingreceptioninspiration #instawed #weddingflowers #hangingfoliage #hanginggreenery #hanginglights #weddingideas #weddingstylingideas #uniquewedding #weddingreceptionideas #diywedding #weddinginspo #gettingmarried #pinterestwedding

A post shared by Wedsites | Wedding Planning (@wedsites) on

However, the option is yours. You can opt for a simplistic greenery style or a fuller look. How? Keep greenery limited to give a more delicate, fresh appearance or use larger volumes for that fairytale-like lush look.

If you’d prefer not to make something from scratch, you can always embellish existing fixtures as well, or incorporate it into the rest of your flowers to add depth and fullness.

This decor option is great if you love the idea and beauty of the outdoors, but prefer to not actually host your wedding outside. Either way, it’s a beautiful addition to just about any theme.

Image: Wesley Vorster Photography

Lavender truly is a versatile little bloom. Used to calm and soothe you before bedtime, fill up your garden with sweet scents and pastel colours, or, in your wedding florals. Although it’s not a common first choice when picking blooms for your bouquet, table or installations, it really should be. Here are a few clever ways on how to incorporate lavender into your special day:

Confetti

It’s hardy enough to dry without breaking, and won’t litter the environment like plastic and glitter will.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

Lavender – the flower of devotion ?⠀ ⠀ Thank you to the florists and clients who reached out this past year to include some of my lavender as part of their wedding celebrations & decor. Creating a wedding collection as part of my lavender line has been in the books even before we had a lavender in the ground. Now that we have an established crop, my plan for 2020 is to offer couples a collection that includes lavender wedding toss, lavender bouquets, lavender boutonnières, lavender aisle markers, lavender place settings & centerpieces, and of course bunches of lavender for the DIY-er ?.⠀ ⠀ I want to hear from you! ? Brides, Grooms, Florists, Event Planners, and Lavender Lovers….let me know what you want to see! Please share your ideas below?or send me a note✍️! If you are looking for some inspiration, head over ? to my Lavender Wedding Board on Pinterest to see some of my favourite picks. ? Link in bio ?. _ _ _ #lavenderwedding #lavendertoss #lavenderweddingtheme #lavenderweddingflowers #weddingdecorideas #lavenderlove #countrywedding #countryweddings #pembylife #seatoskywedding #whistlerwedding #squamishwedding #rockymountainbride #weddinginthemountains #weddinginthemeadow #themeaningofflowers #fromthegardenshed

A post shared by Catherine Karpman (@fromthegardenshed) on

Bouquet or bridesmaids’ bouquets

If you’re going for a more dainty, rustic type of aesthetic, lavender is the perfect pick for a long-lasting and budget-friendly addition, or to use alone.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

Congratulations Carrie, you are a beautiful bride! ?: @klaarphotography

A post shared by Lavender Wedding Co. (@lavenderweddingco) on

Add it to your invitation or stationary

A single sprig of lavender attached to your invitations or escort cards will last longer than most flowers and will subtly scent the paper as well.

Boutonnieres

Small and detailed flowers work best for boutonnieres to provide that extra bit of detail to the groom or groomsmen’s ensembles.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

Well, we are moved in! Every muscle hurts, but I’m loving the new place so far! ?❤️ #lavenderboutonniere

A post shared by Emily Suidikas (@whichgoose) on

In your altar or chuppah

It’s whimsical, a little wild and undeniably romantic. And because you need larger amounts of flowers to fill up the space, lavender offers a wallet-friendly alternative to more expensive flowers.

Use it in your hair

Instead of incorporating flowers that are bound to wilt and break off, pin small pieces of lavender sprigs and young blooms to your flower crown, in your updo or in your plait.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

Our dried Lavender hair comb is a beautiful accent for any bride.

A post shared by Lavender Wedding Co. (@lavenderweddingco) on

Decorate your lounge areas and tables

Take small vases or pots and place bunches of lavender everywhere your guests will be lounging or sitting, perfect for an al fresco setting with the added bonus of being a natural insect repellent. Alternatively, place bunches of fresh lavender along the centre of your tables instead of traditional runners.

Tie it to your chairs

Small bunches of lavender tied to your seating area or along your aisle make for a fragrant sillage that will envelop while your guests are seated.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

Bundles of rosemary and lavender to accent the ceremony aisle ~ best smelling aisle!

A post shared by Bella Bloom Florals – Oregon (@bellabloomflorals) on

Add it to your dessert table or cocktails

Food-grade lavender sprigs add a floral and slightly sweet flavour to your cake, tiny desserts, and even your cocktails and G&Ts.

Give individual plants or seeds as favours

A gift that keeps on giving is the ultimate gift. Give your guests seed pods or a small lavender plant to take home with them, plant and eventually harvest.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

Lavender season #lavender #lavenderseason #lavenderfavors #weddingfavors #marturii #nunta #botez #marturiinunta #marturiibotez

A post shared by Plantecadou.ro (@plantecadou) on

Image: Unsplash

By Larissa Vermeulen

A wedding theme is the golden thread running through your occasion, connecting every element, from the venue to the tiniest detail. Because the theme is such an important aspect of your wedding, it may seem like a daunting and overwhelming choice to make – that’s why we’re here to guide you:

The Venue

Where you choose to have your wedding will greatly contribute to the theme, so if you’ve already chosen a venue for your wedding, look at what it has to offer – a grand wedding hall calls for a glamorous approach while a beach venue requires a tropical or simplistic, natural theme.

The Season

If you’re planning an outdoor wedding, it might not be the best idea to celebrate your nuptials in the midst of winter, so it’s essential to take the season in which your wedding date falls into account. Furthermore, find inspiration in the colour palette of each season. For instance, if you’re planning an autumn or winter wedding, incorporate warm colors such as orange or red, or cooler colours for the warmer months.

The Mood

What kind of celebration do you have in mind? The formality of your event will directly impact the environment of your wedding. If you have always envisioned a formal black-tie event, then go for a glamorous, grand wedding theme. If you and your partner are both a bit more laidback, let that reflect in your chosen theme and go for a relaxed, informal garden party or beach wedding.

The Personal Details

It’s important to incorporate elements of you and your significant other into your wedding theme to make it unique to you as a couple. Have you travelled to any countries together that have inspired you? What is your sense of style? Even the most straightforward details such as what your favourite colour is could help you decide on a theme that is true to you both.

The Culture

Incorporating your cultural heritage into your wedding theme serves as a beautiful tribute as well as adds an element of tradition. It’s common practice for modern-day couples to combine multiple traditions, a dose of modernity and their personal style. These cultural elements could be incorporated in your colour palette, the menu or traditional activities.

The Budget

Most importantly, don’t forget about your budget! Be realistic and keep in mind that certain themes will be more costly than others. Don’t get wrapped up in looks or trends that you’ll regret later on. Having a classic, stylish theme is the way to go, but do incorporate small, fun details inspired by you and your partner to reflect your true personality as a couple.

Image: Unsplash

Whether you want animals as a backdrop for your wedding photos or using them for your grand entrance, live creatures aren’t for your wedding decoration. It may seem ‘stunning’ or produce that extra ‘wow’ factor, but at the end of the day, it’s cruel and not fair on the animals.

Recently, a bride thought it would be a great idea to use goldfish in her centerpieces. She thought it would be a lovely idea to have a pair of goldfish in a bowl on each table, which symbolised her nuptials. The bride expected guests to take the goldfish home, as a ‘sort of’ wedding favour.

Sounds foolproof right? Wrong.

The maid of honour tried her best to discourage the bride from this idea, but sadly, she would not budge.  As hard as it may seem, not everyone wants to go home with an unexpected new pet. As the wedding reception commenced, she was left with having to keep an eye on the fish centerpieces. A few goldfish checked out a little early, but the newly married couple had ‘spares in the back’.

By the end of the night, as the maid of honour predicted, guests left without their special ‘wedding favours’. The maid of honour was saddled with 100 goldfish. She rushed to the pet shop to get a bigger tank but many had died by the time she got home.

In the end, only one out of the 100 goldfish survived. The fish named Sun lived for five years, a duration longer than her friendship with the bride and even longer than the marriage.

The use of animals as wedding props doesn’t end there. Elephants have been used in wedding ceremonies for decades. These majestic creatures are kept captive, and live in fear of being forced into submission by abuse. The elephants are used to make an entrance or exit by the couple, for the wedding photoshoot and sometimes just as decoration.

Taking them out of their natural habitat and subjecting them to the needs and desires of your wedding day is not okay.

Picture: Pixabay

By Yashna Balwanth

Contrary to popular belief, being environmentally and socially responsible on your wedding day is easier and possibly cheaper than you think. What could possibly be more important than protecting the Earth? Small considerations can make a world of difference – like using seasonal and local flowers flowers instead of importing them.

Being eco-friendly is fashionable, will boost your eco-consciousness levels – and perhaps even turn a few guests into eco-warriors. We’ve put together a few conscious decisions to consider to make your special day more eco-friendly and your wallet a little happier.

Disposable confetti
Every bride wants to be showered in glittery confetti. In reality, you are throwing microplastics everywhere. An eco-friendlier alternative to this is to use biodegradable confetti which are made from flower petals. Or punch out confetti circles from leaves, colour them metallic and voilà. These are materials that still look as beautiful in pictures and will do exactly the same job.

 

Re-use wedding attire
Being eco-friendly also means finding more than one use for certain items, this includes wedding attire. By allowing your bridal party to choose their own style of dress within your colour palette, they will wear the dress again since it is something they have chosen for themselves. The bride’s dress can also be a vintage or pre-loved garment, perhaps handed down through generations. Don’t grow too attached to your wedding gown, you can have it altered once the wedding is over into two separate pieces of a top and skirt, then mix and match it within your closet for multiple uses.

 

Potted vs cut flowers
Cut flowers do not have a long lifespan. Why not opt for a potted centerpiece instead? These can also double up as wedding favours for guests to take home, which help save on costs. However, if you really do want cut flowers for decor, work with a company that can have the flowers reused after the function or even donated to a hospital or community centre.

 

Digital stationery
Let’s be real for a second… how many of us actually save wedding invites of friends and family? This is wasted paper and a waste of money printing invitations that still need to be hand delivered to guests. Besides the digital realm keeping us in touch with one another, it has also helped with invitations and notices to guests. Wedding websites can be set up for minimal costs and can also keep track of the guests who have rsvp’d and those who have not.

 

Food donations
It comes as no surprise that weddings attract a lot of wastage when it comes to food. Whether guests didn’t show up, or caterers over prepared, there is always waste of perfectly good food that shouldn’t be thrown away. Perhaps leftovers can be donated to a shelter for the homeless or even handed out to a nearby children’s school. Ensure your caterers are aware of your plans to donate so the food is not thrown out unintentionally.

Picture: Pixabay

Live painting at wedding receptions is a growing trend for both the couple and guests. It is a fun and creative way to keep guests entertained, as well as create a truly lasting memory for the couple to treasure.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

“You have peace,” the old woman said, “when you make it with yourself. ~Mitch Albom

A post shared by Mary Paints Weddings (@marypaintsweddings) on

Mary Paints Weddings (@marypaintsweddings) specialises in live wedding painting in South Africa which leaves the bridal couple with a tangible forever memory – a painting. Mary also creates painted jackets for the couple which can be kept and reused long after the wedding and honeymoon has ended.

Another fun way to incorporate art into your wedding reception is to hire a caricature artist, inviting guests to take something home as well. Martinus Van Tee (@martinus_caricatures)  is a caricature artist based in the Western Cape who offers these services for both wedding and corporate events.

A picture is worth a thousand words but what about a painting? This fun addition to your big day will have your reliving one of the happiest moments of your life, hanging right there in your home.

Picture: Supplied

Losing a family member is heartbreaking – and when it comes to getting married, their absence is often amplified. Acknowledging these special people can become overwhelming, especially when trying to maintain a celebratory atmosphere throughout your day.

Fortunately, weddings are sentimental occasions, leaving room for a myriad of ways to acknowledge those dearly departed. The trick is to strike a balance – honouring loved ones without turning your big day into a memorial service. Whether the gesture be small and personalised or open and public, there is always a tasteful way to do it.

Here are five simple and subtle ways to remember someone passed at your wedding:

Attach a small photo to your bouquet: This is particularly meaningful for a bride who has lost her father – a highly personal yet subtle gesture that is the perfect little reminder that your dad is walking you down the aisle in spirit.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Megan K Calton (@caltonphotography) on

Incorporate old fabric into your suit or wedding gown: Keep the spirit of your lost loved ones close by – literally. Use mom’s wedding dress to create your own gown, or transform one of dad’s old ties into a trendy pocket square.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Kateryna Olek (@olekkateryna_atelier) on

Reserve a seat at the ceremony: Of course nothing compares to having your loved ones physically by your side but reserving them a seat while you say your “I dos” can be a special reminder of their irreplaceable presence. Mark their seat with a favorite flower or sentimental possession.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Classic Christian Weddings (@classicchristianweddings) on

Set up a photo display: This is a great option for couples who want to keep their tribute lighthearted. It avoids creating a heavy atmosphere for guests as family members can step aside to acknowledge deceased family members in private.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Dapper Vintage Rentals (@dappervintagerentals) on

Dedicate a song: Whether it is your first dance or just a casual slot on the playlist, dedicate a song to someone no longer around. Levels of discretion can be altered to your personal taste here; make a grand gesture with an announcement or toast or simply appreciate the special moment to yourself.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Daniel Powęska (@daniel.poweska_photography) on

Picture: Unsplash

With a strong emphasis on living a sustainable life, there is more and more pressure to go green in all aspects of our lives – and that includes your wedding day. But going green for your big day is a lot easier than you think, and will give you plenty of options to play around with to create a unique event. From everything including your food down to your dress, check out our top 10 ways you can make your wedding more green.

1. LOCATION

Your wedding venue plays a big part in how your day will look, feel and be represented, but it’s also one of the key ways to making your wedding greener. Aim to choose a location that is already promoting sustainability with their food, electricity, water usage, etc. This will make it easier for you when sorting out your decor and catering. To save on fuel, try to find a venue that is more central so that most of your guests can carpool and travel shorter distances.

2. STATIONERY

When it comes to creating greener stationery, there’s plenty to play around with. Apart from it being a major trend in the digital era, creating a wedding website where your guests can find all the details and RSVP saves you on paper (and printing costs). As for the menus, seating charts and stationery present at the wedding, you can get creative with materials like recycled cotton for that high-end look. You can also get away with only one menu per table, instead of giving one to each individual guest.

3. DIY

While DIY doesn’t necessarily equal planet-friendly, creating things yourself will help you keep track of the materials and methods you’re using so that you can avoid anything harmful. Don’t be afraid to reach out to friends and family for second-hand or recycled goods that can be used to for your wedding decor. For example, placing candles or organic flowers inside old mason jars can create a rustic look on the tables for your wedding reception.

4. FLOWERS

Source the flowers for your wedding from a local organic florist, or even plant them and pick them yourself from your garden. Try to use florals that don’t require a lot of water – succulents are beautiful and modern – and create a beautifully unique arrangement. They can even serve as your wedding favours too, so your guests can take them home and plant them in their own gardens.

5. FAVOURS

There is a wide variety of thoughtful and fun wedding favours when it comes to sticking to green options. Spoil your guests with some herbal tea leaves and a personalised ‘Thank You’ note, or offer them organic seeds that they can grow at home to symbolise your new journey of growth with your loved one. Plants, birdseed or homemade organic beauty products are also lovely options.

6. THE DRESS

Every bride wants that special and unique dress that feels perfectly made for her, but this can be an expensive and taxing reality. It’s much greener and cheaper to hire a dress or have a vintage one altered to suit you. However, if you do plan on buying a dress or having one made, aim to use more planet-friendly materials and create a piece that you will be able to wear again or pass down.

7. FOOD

If your venue is sustainable and offers catering, it’s a perfect deal! If not, look for a caterer that makes use of organic produce. Maybe even opt for going completely meat-free for your wedding menu and serve colourful fresh foods for your guests to enjoy that have a lower impact on the environment.

8. CONFETTI

Instead of plastic or paper confetti, opt for flower petals (which are much softer), birdseed, grains or plant seeds. These make light and pretty confetti pieces that can be carried in hand-woven baskets or bowls to save on plastic or paper cups. They are also affordable, easy to find and utterly unique.

9. DECOR

Try to avoid any paper or plastic use. Rather use proper cotton napkins, bare tables and chairs, and lots of greenery. Write your table numbers on rocks, pebbles or shells, and ask friends and family for spare decorations and table settings that you can borrow just for the day. Mismatched decor may just be the next trend!

10. RINGS

A family heirloom or vintage ring is the perfect way to lower your environmental impact on the planet, while still spoiling your other half with something precious. Alternatively, you can source your ring from companies that work with recycled metals and gemstones and have fair trade labour practices to create a sustainable option for you and your partner.

Image: Unsplash

With more and more brides opting for a budget-friendly wedding, DIY wedding decor has been (and will always be) trending. Putting together an elegant wedding with stunning decor shouldn’t break the bank or put a hole in your pocket. In most cases the way you envisioned the decor for your big day makes you realise that some ideas and dreams can’t be bought, so why not do it yourself?

1. WINE CORK SEATING CHART

Ebriderides wants their dream wedding to be unique in its own way. Instead of paying someone to compile your seating chart using expensive materials, try collecting all your wine bottle corks and put them to good use.

2. HAND-PAINTED BALLOONS

Who said balloons are only meant for birthday parties? Balloons have taken the wedding world by storm. Brides are now opting to have wedding balloons as a part of their ceremonies and receptions. Instead of buying all the fancy balloons you see online, simply purchase the balloons of your choice, and make them unique with some hand-crafted paint and stencils for a minimalistic decor feel.

3. LIGHT BULB FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS

Floral arrangements tend to be quite pricey. Keep all your blown light bulbs, remove the inside elements and give them a good wash. Hang them up in your reception area and add some small blooms. This look really brings some out-of-this-world elegance to any area.

4. WHEELBARROW DRINKS COOLER

Serving drinks at your wedding reception doesn’t need to be a nightmare. If your reception area is outside, make use of a wheelbarrow for guests to grab a cold one. Simply clean it out, add some ice and fill it with some beers and coolers. It’s great to avoid the long queues at the bar and an easy grab-and-go for your guests to enjoy.

Images: Pinterest