Wedding Decor Costs: What You Really Need to Spend on Décor

When it comes to your wedding, wedding decor costs, the total amount spent on visual elements like lighting, centerpieces, signage, and floral arrangements that shape the look and feel of your ceremony and reception. Also known as wedding decorations, it’s often the biggest chunk of your budget — and for good reason. It’s what guests remember, what photos capture, and what turns a venue into a celebration. You don’t need to go all-out to make it feel special, but skipping it entirely leaves your day feeling flat.

Most couples spend between 10% and 20% of their total budget on decor, but that number can swing wildly. A $10,000 wedding might put $1,500 into decor, while a $30,000 event could easily spend $6,000 or more. The key isn’t how much you spend — it’s where you spend it. Lighting, for example, can transform a dull hall into a dreamy space for under $500 if you rent string lights or uplighting. Linens and table runners? They’re cheap, but they make a huge difference. On the other hand, custom floral arches or rented furniture can eat up cash fast without always adding lasting value. Real couples who saved money didn’t cut decor — they cut the fluff. They reused ceremony decor at the reception. They used candles instead of expensive centerpieces. They picked seasonal flowers that cost half as much. And they focused on a few standout pieces — not dozens of small ones.

It’s not just about the items — it’s about how they work together. A cohesive color palette, consistent textures, and intentional placement matter more than buying the most expensive thing in the store. Think about what you’ll see in your photos: the aisle, the head table, the entrance. Those are your priority zones. Everything else can be simpler. And if you’re worried about what your guests will think? Most people don’t notice if your centerpieces are $20 or $200. But they’ll notice if the room feels warm, inviting, and thoughtfully put together.

Some of the most memorable weddings we’ve seen had minimal decor — just fairy lights, handwritten signs, and a few well-placed greenery bunches. Others went all out with rented chandeliers and custom backdrops. The difference? The ones that worked best were the ones that matched the couple’s style, not the trendiest Pinterest board. Your decor should feel like you, not a catalog.

Below, you’ll find real advice from couples who planned weddings on every budget — from $1,000 to $30,000. We’ve pulled together guides on how to stretch your decor dollars, what to splurge on, what to skip, and how to make your space feel luxurious without the luxury price tag. Whether you’re trying to nail the perfect classy wedding or just want to avoid overspending on things no one remembers, you’ll find practical, no-fluff tips that actually work.