Budget Wedding: Double-Duty Decorations

Every bride wants to turn her wedding into a magical wonderland, but unless you’ve recently won the lottery, you’ll probably run into a financial snag or two during your wedding planning.


But there’s one little secret that will save you money, time and still look beautiful: double-duty decorations. Instead of simply serving as a centerpiece on the table or a favor for the guests, these little gems are multi-purpose.


Picture frames:


Purchase small picture frames and insert the guests’ place cards. At the end of the night, each couple can take their frame as a favor. For an extra special touch, insert a picture of you and your new husband behind the place card so your guests get a nice surprise at home. Not planning to assign seating? Insert a poem into the frame and cluster them on the table amid greenery and ribbon for a beautiful centerpiece/favor combination.


Sweet centerpieces:


Unusual cakes and candies are one of the trendiest items to hit the wedding scene. Stack decorated cupcakes in a pyramid to serve as the centerpiece and your guests’ dessert. Or arrange gold-foil wrapped chocolates in a glass bowl (with a little ivy) for an elegant, edible centerpiece. Another option is to have your baker make a small cake to serve as a centerpiece for each table. You and your new husband can cut the small cake at the head table, and the guests can share the cake at their table. Choose different fillings for each table to encourage sharing and interaction.


Bridesmaid’s bouquets:


Arrange them around the cake for an elegant reception hall decoration by placing them in vases of water. Or you can use them in a vase at the head table for a special centerpiece. They can even rest on the buffet table or bar for a beautiful effect.


Candles:


Flickering candlelight can turn any reception hall into a romantic setting. Large pillar candles can be lit for the reception and then offered to the guests as favors. Grouped together and surrounded by some greenery, they make excellent centerpieces. Cluster different sizes and colors together for a more dramatic effect. (Plus the guests can choose the candle that best suits their own home!)


Wine:


Rest a bottle of wine in a wicker basket and surround it with fresh grapes, flowers or greenery. Add some fall leaves for an autumn wedding. The wine bottle serves as a unique centerpiece and provides your guests with drinks during dinner. Be certain the caterer opens the bottles before dinner so your guests will be able to pour their drinks.


Champagne glasses:


Purchase a glass etching or painting kit at your local craft store and to create a design on inexpensive champagne glasses. Some brides may choose to paint their wedding flower on the glass, whereas others may want to etch their names and the wedding date. Wrap a piece of sheer ribbon around the stem. Your guests can use them for your reception toast, and they’ll have a lovely keepsake as well.