Make your own Centerpieces and save money
Centerpieces bring your wedding tables together. They can tie in your themes and colors and really bring life and unique touches to your wedding reception. Centerpieces can also be quite pricey! Can you make your own wedding centerpieces? Of course! I am going to provide you a few tips on how to make beautiful centerpieces and save money.
1. Research and plan out your wedding centerpieces
Once you have secured your venue and determined your budget, the best way to secure the best deal for yourself in centerpiece purchasing is simply deciding the look you want and planning accordingly. Review sample diagrams for the venue space and determine the approximate number of tables you will have (I always round up and add 2!). Then, determine the materials you will need to achieve your dream look. Make yourself a list.
2. Make a plan to shop for your perfect items
Shop? Yes! Shop! Go! Ok just kidding, don't just go! :) you need a plan. Think of any upcoming holidays leading up to your wedding date. Why? SALES! Think of the changing seasons leading up to your wedding date. Why? SALES! It is much more cost effective to buy fall themed items in the summer than it is in the peak of fall. Craft stores often have sales around the holidays where you can get great deals on glassware and other items. Be patient and smart with your shopping, you will do great! Craft stores may also offer discounts based on the volume of items you are buying. Just ask!
3. Lean on your Family and friends
Bring your family and friends into the hunt! Let them know what you are looking for so they can keep an eye out for you. If you have anyone in your life who is crafty, they may already have a number of items you need! Also, they will likely know where/when to get good deals. Finally, friends and family can offer a hand in putting together your centerpieces with you so you don't have to tackle the project all alone :). Family and friends often have items in their home you can use for decor, I personally have used my own household items to create centerpieces and decor for my couples. It is both an honor and HUGE savings for the couple to utilize items from the homes of people they care about.
4. Make sure to shop online
We all know Amazon is a powerhouse of deals. Use them! Search and see what discounts you can find. I will let you in on a little secret, professionals shop for a ton of items on Amazon too! I am sure you knew that; I feel like we all know that, but we often forget. In your online search do not leave out Google! search for the name of the item and see if there are smaller companies who will sell to you directly. Also, before you head to any store, look online for coupons!!!!! Craigslist, Letgo etc.. are great for purchasing slightly used glassware and other items that can be used for decor. I will let you in on another secret. Coming soon to weddingdayof.com.. wedding decor swap and sales! soon you will able to come right here to list and purchase both new and used items.
5. Meet your wedding vendors halfway
Ok, so maybe despite your best efforts you can't secure all of the items you need. However, with securing as much as you could, you are off to a great start! Work with your vendors to get the remaining pieces. If you want fresh flowers, purchase them and get assistance with the arrangement. Either way, you will save by having at least some of the items secure before bringing in vendors. Just keep in mind that last minute requests can be costly, so make sure you check with your vendors so you can order any necessary pieces with ample time.
Happy Planning!
MM