DIY Wedding Decor Ideas That Look Expensive (But Aren’t)

Weddings are beautiful, magical and… expensive. Luckily, you do not need a sky high budget to make your wedding look stunning. With the right DIY projects, you can create decor that looks custom and high end without draining your bank account.

Whether your style leans boho, classic, garden inspired, or full glam, these DIY decor ideas will help you create a Pinterest worthy wedding on a budget.

Want a stylish wedding without the stress of building everything yourself? I would love to plan or design it with you.

1. DIY Wedding Signage That Looks Custom Made

Custom signage is one of the easiest ways to elevate your wedding, but it can get expensive fast. The good news is that you can create professional looking signs for a tiny portion of the cost.

Signage Ideas

✔ Acrylic welcome sign using a clear sheet, painted back, and vinyl lettering

✔ Chalkboard or mirror signage thrifted and hand lettered

✔ Wooden sign with paint and a simple stencil for clean lines

✔ LED faux neon sign made with string lights shaped into letters

Pro tip: Tape a printed design behind acrylic or glass and trace it for perfect lettering every time.

2. Centerpieces That Look Luxe on a Budget

High end centerpieces do not have to come with high end price tags. Simple materials can create a polished, elegant look.

Centerpiece Ideas

✔ Floating candles in cylinder vases with petals or greenery

✔ Thrifted vases spray painted gold, black, or champagne

✔ Vintage bud vases and bottles with single stem florals

✔ Fairy lights in hurricane vases for soft, romantic lighting

Pro tip: Buy flowers in bulk from Trader Joe’s, Costco, or local farmers markets to save big.

3. DIY Wedding Backdrops for Ceremonies and Photos

A beautiful backdrop instantly elevates your ceremony or photo booth. You do not need a florist or a full production team to pull it off.

Backdrop Ideas

✔ String lights with sheer curtains for an ethereal glow

✔ A DIY silk flower wall using zip ties and a backdrop stand

✔ A simple wooden arch or copper pipe frame with greenery

✔ Balloon installs combined with pampas grass for a boho modern look

Pro tip: A rented or DIY PVC stand works just as well and keeps costs low.

4. Affordable Lighting Tricks for Instant Atmosphere

Lighting is one of the most impactful elements of your wedding decor. It sets the mood, elevates your space, and transforms even the simplest venue.

Lighting Ideas

✔ LED candles for safety and convenience

✔ Paper lanterns with string lights for whimsical charm

✔ Mason jar lanterns for pathways and table accents

✔ Soft white string lights wrapped around trees or beams

Pro tip: Stick to warm white lights. They photograph beautifully and flatter everyone.

5. Thrift Store Hacks for High End Wedding Decor

Thrift stores are gold mines for wedding decor if you know what to look for. With a little imagination and a can of spray paint, you can create decor that looks expensive.

Thrift Store Items Worth Buying

✔ Mismatched gold or silver frames for signage and table numbers

✔ Glass vases, candle holders, and jars

✔ Old hardback books for vintage inspired tables

✔ Mirrors for elegant welcome signs or seating charts

Pro tip: Keep an eye on estate sales and Facebook Marketplace for unique finds.

6. DIY Wedding Favors Guests Will Actually Want

Skip the cheap favors that never leave the venue. Choose items that guests will use and appreciate.

Favor Ideas

✔ Mini succulents or potted herbs

✔ Personalized candles with custom labels

✔ Homemade jam, honey, olive oil, or spice blends

✔ Handwritten notes for each guest

Pro tip: If favors start feeling like too much work, swap them for a specialty dessert bar or signature cocktail.

Final Thoughts: How to DIY a Luxe Wedding on a Budget

Creating a beautiful wedding does not require a fortune. With thoughtful material choices and a few strategic DIYs, your decor can look elegant, cohesive, and expensive.

✔ Keep your materials timeless and neutral

✔ Use lighting to elevate every corner

✔ Mix thrift finds with modern touches

✔ Choose decor that doubles as keepsakes

Want help designing or styling your weddingWhether you need guidance for DIY projects or want a fully designed aesthetic with custom signage, props, and decor, I can help bring your vision to life. Let’s make your wedding look unforgettable.