Wedding Decor & Tablescapes: How to Design a Beautiful Reception

In this week’s episode of 52 'Til I Do, we’re diving into the art of setting the scene. From show-stopping tablescapes to the little decor details that tie a wedding together, we explore how to create spaces that leave a lasting impression on your guests—and your Instagram feed! Whether you’re going full DIY or leaning on professional help, we’ve got tips, tricks, and inspiration to make every table feel unforgettable.

How Much Should You Budget for Wedding Decor?

If you’re following along with the Marryment planning guide and our budgeting tool, you’ll notice that the national average for a wedding is around $40,000. Of that, about 7-15% typically goes toward decor and florals (roughly $2,800-$6,000).

That might feel like a lot… or maybe not enough! Remember, every decision you make while planning is a value-driven decision. If decor and flowers are a top priority for you, your budget for them may be higher; if not, it may be lower.

What Wedding Rentals Do I Need?

Tents or Canopies
If your wedding (or even part of it) will be outdoors, consider whether you’ll need a tent or canopy. These not only protect against weather but also help define the space.

Dance Floor Rentals
It’s very common to rent a dance floor! You might want one indoors if you don’t love the existing flooring, or outdoors if you need a sturdy, designated spot for dancing.

Tables & Chairs
Double-check whether your venue includes these. If not, you’ll need to rent them. Keep in mind that upgrades (like specialty chairs or farm tables) often come with additional costs.

Linens
Tablecloths, runners, napkins, overlays—these are small details that make a huge visual impact. If your venue doesn’t provide them, they’ll need to be rented.

Arches, Chuppahs, or Ceremony Structures
Keep in mind that your florist may need to be involved in designing or decorating these. Coordination is key to ensure the structure is both beautiful and safely installed.

What Wedding Decor Trends Are Popular Right Now?

Wedding decor is getting more creative than ever. Here are a few trends couples are loving right now:

Living Centerpieces
And no, we’re not talking about fish or hamsters! Think potted herbs, succulents, or small plants arranged in large vessels. They look stunning, feel organic, and can be taken home by guests—or kept by the couple as a meaningful memento.

Custom Signage
Wooden arches, acrylic welcome signs, oversized seating charts—custom pieces are a great way to incorporate personality and make your event feel uniquely yours.

Statement Walls
Whether it’s a greenery backdrop, a flower wall, or something interactive like a champagne or donut wall, these installations are fun, memorable, and perfect for photos. Think about how you want guests to experience them—are they a photo op, a snack station, or both?

Pro Tip:
As you map out your decor budget, keep an eye on hidden costs. Delivery fees, late-night teardown, and damage deposits can add up quickly. Make sure to ask vendors about these charges upfront so there are no surprises on your final invoice.

What Wedding Decor Is Worth Splurging On?

There are definitely a few decor elements that can be worth spending a little extra on, but there’s no “right” or “wrong” answer here. Splurging should always come down to what you and your partner value most.

If there’s something you absolutely love and want to invest in, go for it. It’s your day, your vision, and your budget. Don’t let anyone else tell you how you should or shouldn’t spend it.

What Is a Wedding Tablescape?

We’ve talked a lot about decor, so let’s zoom in on tablescapes and what they include. A tablescape is simply everything that appears on your table, including:

• Napkins
• Linens
• Plates
• Glassware
• Centerpieces

Because there are so many elements involved, your design options are truly endless! However, the most important tip to keep in mind is visual hierarchy.

Think about what you want your guests’ eyes to be drawn to first. Elements like color, contrast, and size all play a role in guiding attention and creating a balanced, beautiful table.

Are DIY Wedding Decor Projects Worth It?

We love a good DIY moment—but sometimes they’re trickier than they first appear.

While you and your partner are planning, you might feel inspired with tons of ideas for projects that seem personal and budget-friendly. Before you dive in, ask yourself a few key questions:

• What’s the intention? Is it to add a personal touch, save money, or both?
• Where will they be stored? Consider space and logistics ahead of time.
• Will you keep them or resell them? If you plan to resell, what’s their value and where could you sell them?
• Do you have enough time? Think about how long it will take to complete everything before the wedding day.

Taking a moment to answer these questions can save you stress and make sure your DIY projects are actually fun, not overwhelming!

Final Thoughts

Decor and tablescapes play a big role in shaping the look and feel of your wedding day. Think about what matters most to you and your partner, plan your design thoughtfully, and don’t be afraid to add personal touches that reflect your style.

From statement pieces to small details, each element contributes to creating a space that feels intentional, welcoming, and memorable for both you and your guests.

For more tips and tricks, tune into the full episode of 52 ‘Til I Do on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

Have more wedding decor related questions? Send us a message at hello@marryment.com or get in touch on our social media—we love helping couples navigate this part of wedding planning!

Photo Credit to JNA Visuals

Marryment proudly serves couples all across Chicago and the surrounding Chicago Suburbs including popular areas such as Schaumburg, Elmhurst, Naperville, Evanston, Joliet, Oak Park, Skokie, Barrington, Downers Grove and Northbrook, to name a few. We also love destination weddings. We'd love to be a part of your wedding day! Schedule your free planning call with us today.