Planning your dream wedding doesn't have to mean breaking the bank. With a little creativity, smart sourcing, and thoughtful planning, you can style a wedding that looks straight out of a magazine—without the designer price tag. Whether you're going full DIY or just looking for clever ways to stretch your budget, here’s how to bring your vision to life like a pro.
Start with a Clear Vision
Before you buy a single ribbon or book a supplier, take time to define your style. Are you drawn to modern minimalism, rustic romance, boho chic, or timeless elegance? Create a mood board using Pinterest or Instagram saves to collect colours, textures, and ideas that resonate with you. Sticking to a consistent aesthetic will make every detail feel intentional—and more luxe.
Pro Tip: Choose 2–3 main colours and 1–2 accent textures (like wood, glass, or velvet) to guide all your styling decisions.
Prioritise the Key Style Elements
Not every corner of your wedding needs to be styled to perfection. Focus your budget on high-impact areas like:
The ceremony backdrop
The reception tables
A gorgeous welcome or seating chart display
One Instagram-worthy photo moment
These areas will feature heavily in your wedding photos, so making them pop will elevate the entire look of your day.
Mix Rentals with Budget-Friendly Buys
Hiring certain décor pieces (like arches, candle holders, or lounge furniture) from local vendors can actually save you money compared to buying everything new. Then mix in affordable or DIY items to complete the look.
Pro Tip: Explore the One Event shop to find trendy, stylish décor from vendors near you—perfect for mixing and matching without the stress of international shipping or inflated prices.
DIY With Style (and Strategy)
DIY can be your best friend or your biggest headache. Stick to projects that offer high visual impact for low effort, like:
Hand-lettered signage
Simple floral arrangements in thrifted vases
Personalised place cards
Candle and linen styling for tables
Avoid overloading yourself with time-consuming crafts—focus on the few things that will really make a statement.
Borrow from Friends or Family
Chances are, someone you know has already tied the knot and has beautiful décor packed away in storage. Don't be shy to ask! You can also join local wedding resale or swap groups online—great for finding secondhand gems that look brand new.
Think Seasonal and Local
Styling your wedding around seasonal flowers and locally sourced elements (like dried grasses, native greenery, or handmade tableware) adds a meaningful and modern touch—and helps cut costs.
Pro Tip: Connect with talented local vendors on One Event who specialise in budget-friendly florals, rentals, and styling services. .
Let Lighting Do the Work
One of the most underrated styling tricks? Good lighting. Twinkle lights, candles, and warm-toned bulbs instantly add ambience and romance without needing tons of décor. Lighting sets the tone and photographs beautifully.
Hire a Day-Of Stylist (If You Can)
Even if you’re doing most of the planning yourself, hiring a stylist to bring it all together on the day can take your wedding from DIY to designer. They know how to layer textures, work with your budget, and make everything look cohesive.
Many vendors on One Event offer affordable setup and styling packages—so you don’t have to lift a finger on your big day.
Final Thoughts
Styling your wedding like a pro doesn’t mean spending like one. With intentional choices, a clear vision, and the right vendors by your side, you can create a wedding that’s uniquely yours—and completely breathtaking.
Explore our directory at One Event to find décor, inspiration, and local creatives who can help you bring your dream wedding to life—on budget, on trend, and totally unforgettable.
