Go to any wedding and chances are there is probably some sort of backdrop in amongst the decor – whether it be to serve as an “altar” space at the ceremony, to create interest behind the head table at the reception, or for a fun photo booth.
A backdrop can help set the mood for the wedding as well as carry your style or theme through the space.
Aside from making a space look pretty, the bottom line is that a backdrop makes for better photos. Think about it: would you rather have photos of the emcee standing in front of a drab, ballroom wall, or in front of a wicked backdrop with uplighting and other decor accents?
Instead of your typical “pipe and drape” backdrop, here are a few other options that you can do yourself in order to add that “wow!” factor to your next event:
The Book Backdrop:
Book Backdrop | source
This backdrop easily creates texture by using actual books. However, you can also try ripping the pages out of various books (preferably picked up from the used bookstore for cheap!) and arranging and layering them to create a similar effect. To create the words, just tightly roll some of the pages and glue them in place to form the lettering.
Origami Backdrop:
Origami Crane Backdrop | source
Aren’t 1000 paper cranes supposed to be good luck? Then isn’t this just perfect for your wedding! The only setback – you need to know how to make Origami cranes and you need to make a lot of them! This could also be done with Origami roses, butterflies, etc.
Paper Chains:
Paper Chain Backdrop | source
I remember making these chains in elementary school! They didn’t look like much then, but in the right colors, they make for a fun and lively backdrop. Try going from a darker shade to a lighter shade to create an ombre effect.
Ribbon Backdrop:
Ribbon Backdrop | source
This is one of my favorites! This can be done with any sort of ribbon to create different effects. For this rustic backdrop, tear fabric into long strips and tie individually to a pipe or curtain rod. Then add ribbons of different colors and textures (or lace!) randomly throughout. For a more elegant look, use satin and beaded crystals.
Newsprint Backdrop:
Newsprint Backdrop | source
How cool is this? And SO easy to do! Simply find samples of black and white newspaper (no advertisements or negative photos) and glue together like a collage.* Viola! Fun and modern backdrop!
* If you’re finding it difficult to gather up plain black and white newspaper, you may have to photocopy sections in black and white and then collage together.
Flower Bubbles & Baubles Backdrop:
Flower Bubble Backdrop | source
Christmas and holiday decor are sometimes great for use as wedding accents. These glass “bubble” ornaments have a hole on the side so that items can be placed inside. In this photo, flowers and small succulents are placed inside each “bubble” and then are strung together. With a bit of uplighting, these tiny bubbles would look even more fabulous!
Whether you are renting a backdrop, or DIY-ing one, the possibilities are endless. Experiment and get creative!
1) Host your wedding in the morning or the afternoon - Chances are when you think of “wedding”, you immediately picture a dinner and dance type of event. But in my opinion, some of the best weddings are followed by a brunch instead. First of all, you would be saving money on a DJ. You could add a couple of extra hours onto your package with your ceremony musician in order to provide some music while you and your guests eat. Second, you will save a LOT of money on alcohol! Even if you provide Mimosas or have a Champagne toast, the total alcohol consumption will still be significantly lower than a cocktail, dinner and dance wedding. If you decide on an afternoon wedding, you can provide finger foods and appetizers as opposed to having a meal.
2) Make your decor work “double-duty” - If you have a separate venue for your ceremony and your reception, decorating both could be costly. Instead, choose decorations that are easy to transport and have them adorn the ceremony site and then be transferred (by a friend, or 
3) Let them eat something other than cake - Personally, I LOVE a good wedding cake. But, if you need to cut costs, there are plenty of fun and trendy alternatives to the traditional wedding cake. Consider cupcakes, cookies, tarts, donuts, brownies, pie or a even Rice Krispie cake! Your guests will love the novelty and more often than not, you will also save on the cake cutting fee charged by most venues. If you still want the “cake” effect, simply arrange your treats on a tiered cake stand.
5) Consider renting a car as opposed to a Limo - Most limo companies offer a package of a certain number of consecutive hours, which could amount to almost a thousand dollars. If a limo is not a big deal for you, you may want to consider renting a vehicle or two instead. Car rentals are charged daily, which means that if you get your timing right, you may only need to pay for 1 day’s use. However, keep in mind that most car rental companies cannot guarantee you a make/model or color of vehicle. If you let them know it is for a wedding, they will do their best to provide you with a more neutral-toned vehicle, but do not assume that it will be guaranteed. Or, if you know someone with a vintage car or even an RV (talk about your amenities-on-wheels!), see if they would be willing to let you borrow it for your wedding.
). I receive numerous emails a week from would-be planners who are either looking for advice on how to enter this field, or from people who are looking for me to hire them as an assistant.
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