Wedding Florals

BY KRIPA SINGH

Weddings are a celebration of love and joy, but they can also quickly turn into a hefty investment. For couples looking to create elegant décor without stretching their budget, here are five savvy and cost-friendly décor ideas to add beautiful and elegant ambience to your wedding day without breaking the bank.

OPT FOR SEASONAL BLOOMS AND GREENERY

Floral arrangements can easily become one of the most expensive items in your wedding budget. Opting for seasonal flowers that are readily available in your region is not only eco-friendly, but also saves on transportation and import costs. Tropical flowers like orchids, marigolds, and chrysanthemums, for example, are beautiful blooms and are more affordable.

For added impact, incorporate plenty of lush greenery, which is cheaper than flower and adds a natural and earthy aesthetic. You can use them as foliage for tablescapes, cascading ceiling installations, and even as a base for centrepieces.

CREATE AMBIENCE WITH CANDLELIGHT

Nothing sets a romantic tone like candlelight, and it’s a very affordable way to ad warmth to your décor. Instead of relying on expensive floral centrepieces, consider using a mix of candles of different heights to create a table arrangement. Votive candles tea lights, or even floating candles in water-filled bowls can create a soft glow an an elegant look. For an even more cost-effective option, look for battery-operate LED candles, which eliminate any safety concerns and can be reused for other events.

REPURPOSE DÉCOR ACROSS DIFFERENT EVENTS

Indian weddings have multiple events but this also means several décor setups that drive the cost up. A smart way to save is by reusing décor elements across different events. But the key is to repurpose an design the décor in a way that it doesn’t look repetitive. For example, a backdrop from the mehendi can be reimagined and repurposed as a photo-backdrop for the reception.

Working with your decorator to find versatile pieces that fit the themes of multiple events can be a game changer in staying within budget.

DIY PERSONAL TOUCHES WITH SIMPLE CRAFT SUPPLIES

Adding handmade elements to your wedding décor brings a unique charm, and it’s also an easy way to save. With some basic craft supplies, you can create customised table place cards, signage, or origami touches as a part of centrepiece arrangements. For a bit of local flair, incorporate Thai-inspired elements like palm leaf fans, lotus flowers, or banana leaves in table settings or on guest chairs. Not only do these small details make your event more memorable, but they also show thoughtfulness without a big price tag.

EMBRACE MINIMALISM WITH STATEMENT PIECES

Sometimes, less truly is more. Instead of splurging on multiple decorations, consider a few standout pieces that can be the focal point. A stunning entrance arch, a beautifully-decorated mandap, or a simple yet elegant stage backdrop can make a bold statement without the need for excessive décor. Minimalist aesthetics, with their clean lines and thoughtful design, are not only budget-friendly, but also in line with contemporary trends. Pair these statement pieces with neutral colour tones, natural textures, and selective lighting to create an upscale, classy aesthetic that doesn’t feel overwhelming.

Kripa Singh is a wedding decor designer and aesthete with a love for good books, dogs and a cup of tea.