Making a Scene
Romantic, festive, sophisticated

A wedding is the beginning of a hopefully long and happy—and let’s not forget romantic—life as man and wife. So it stands to reason the setting for such an important event should be nothing less than perfect. Whether your idea of “perfect” is modern, sophisticated, fun and funky or something altogether different, you can make your wedding and reception uniquely yours with carefully chosen decorations.

Wedding consultants, reception-site event coordinators and equipment rental professionals are all excellent resources for ideas on how to decorate your event site. Begin by clipping out photos of decorations you like such as arches, greenery, table settings, chair decorations.

You might consider your family traditions and cultural influences to establish a theme for your celebration, as well as your interests as a couple or even how and where you met.

staying within budget

When it comes to setting a décor budget, Phoenix professionals skilled in the art of creating memorable décor say that the best place to spend money is at the head table. Using centerpieces of varying heights scattered throughout the room can give the effect of a room full of flowers while maintaining a reasonable budget. As for table linens, detail-conscious decorators will thrill to the sumptuous organzas and shimmery lames that are available for rent. If you want the same punch with greater savings, consider going with a damask fabric or layering a simple white tablecloth over fabric in an accent color for visual interest. Lend a custom touch to plain chairs by wrapping them in chair covers accented with flowers, bows, even a stylish monogram.

Columns surrounding the dance floor or behind the head table also add to the “wow factor,” especially when they are wrapped with tulle and tiny white lights. Add flowers and you have a dreamy canopy your guests will never forget.

The choice of tableware can also reflect your personal style. Accenting each place setting with an individual flower or herb, stylized place cards, or even brightly colored dishes reminiscent of that vacation in Mexico will set a festive tone.

rent it

Linens, lights (indoor and outdoor), tents, chairs, catering equipment, arches, flatware—you name it and you can find it at a rental place at a portion of the price it would cost to purchase the item outright. (What on earth would you do with 120 place settings or chair covers anyway?) If you make some of your decorations such as flowers and arches do doubleduty at the wedding and the reception, you can put savings to use on an extra night at that cute little bed and breakfast or honeymoon suite.

Wedding rental businesses are also great sources to scout out the latest trends. Visiting the showrooms will yield countless ideas—some of which may be just perfect for your celebration.