Wedding flowers and decor on a budget: where to save and where to spend

Flowers and decoration are easy to overspend on because every idea looks lovely on its own. A few simple principles will help you keep the look you want and the budget you set.

Choose flowers that are in season

Seasonal flowers are fresher, last longer and cost less than blooms flown in from far away. Ask your florist what is at its best in your month, and be flexible about colours: a palette is easier to match than a single named flower.

Spend on what is seen most

• The ceremony backdrop or arch, which appears in nearly every photograph.
• The bouquet and buttonholes, which are in the pictures all day.
• The tables where guests sit for hours, kept low enough to talk across.
• Leave out arrangements in places nobody looks, such as the back of the room.

Make each arrangement work twice

1. 1Move the ceremony flowers to the reception, with a helper to do it during the photographs.
2. 2Use bridesmaids' bouquets as table decorations afterwards.
3. 3Hire vases, stands and candle holders instead of buying them.
4. 4Choose one large piece rather than many small ones.

Greenery and other options

• Foliage and greenery look rich and cost less than flowers.
• Potted plants, herbs and small trees can be taken home or given away.
• Candles, lanterns and fairy lights create atmosphere at a low price.
• Dried or paper flowers last beyond the day and suit some styles.

Do not buy decor you will use once. Think of one or two statement elements, repeat them in a few places, and let good light and good company do the rest.