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How to Decorate a Wedding Reception on a Budget

WEDDING BUDGET & COST CALCULATOR

Wedding Budget Calculator – Manage your Budget
Welcome to Bridleys Wedding Budget Planner.

Bridleys wedding planner is designed to assist you budget for your wedding. We have provided a breakdown of all items involved in planning a wedding. If an item is not relevant to you, you may choose to exclude it, or you can choose to ‘add your own task’ (see the bottom of the planner), if something is not there that you are planning to include.

To operate the wedding budget calculator, simply enter your budget (how much you plan to spend), the number of attendants and how many guests then click ‘Calculate’ and let the tool do the rest! We have included a column based on the average spend on Australian weddings, this is for your information only. Next to this column, is the calculated estimate for each item based on your budget & other information you have provided.

Your targeted/actual costs are for you to enter so you can keep track of how much you plan on spending or have actually spent. Information on ‘who pays for what items & how much’ is based on your actual costs. You are able to change the responsibility of ‘who pays’ for the various task by clicking on the drop list in the ‘who pays’ column, next to each task.

The Importance of a Wedding Budget Calculator

Wedding budgets can be tricky at times. It’s easy to go overboard with excitement when planning a wedding. Before you begin searching for a designer wedding dress, it’s essential to have an idea of how much you can afford. A wedding budget calculator is an excellent way to determine if you’re on track or if there are ways to cut corners and save money. Bridleys True Bride wedding budget calculator is simple and easy to use, Enjoy. 

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Tips for Decorating Your Wedding Reception on a Budget

Image by Ariana Tennyson. 

Prioritizing a budget-friendly wedding celebration doesn’t mean sacrificing dream décor elements. Before diving into the planning process, it’s important to curate a comfortable and realistic wedding budget that is best for you and your partner. After your budget is complete, fun planning begins—including decorating your wedding ceremony and reception. 

When it comes to reception décor, the endless Pinterest-worthy options can be overwhelming. To avoid pushing past your budget and to create a stress-free planning season, we have compiled nine top-notch budget-friendly decorating tips. We’re proving you don’t need to drain your bank account in order to have the wedding of your dreams.

1. Use Items From Your Home

From decorative pillows and blankets to chairs and rugs, there are many personalized décor elements—found in your home—that represent your style as a couple and preserves your wedding budget. Look around your house and get creative with ways you could use décor you already own to decorate your wedding reception. In addition to saving money, you guarantee your wedding will feel like “you.”

Image by Carmen Lopez Photography. 

2. DIY Wedding Décor 

With weddings shifting focus from quantity to quality, “do it yourself” wedding décor has become increasingly popular. DIY wedding elements—from signage to photo booths—are an easy and affordable way to get loved ones involved in the wedding planning process and save money. 

Images by Isaiah and Taylor Photography. 

3. Repurpose Ceremony Décor

Reusing décor elements—like seating and backdrops— throughout your day is a major time, money, and stress saver. You can use your ceremony seating as part of your reception seating. You could even carry your eye-catching ceremony backdrop over to the reception as a sweetheart table backdrop. There’s no reason you should have to spend money on duplicate items, especially if your budget is tight. Want more examples? Here are more clever ways to repurpose your wedding décor from ceremony to reception.

Images by Boutique Weddings + Adventure Elopements.

4. Think Outside The Box For Centrepieces

There are no rules when it comes to centrepieces. Floral arrangements, books, mismatched glassware, lamps, lanterns, and geometric gold table décor are all great centrepiece options. We recommend carefully crafting a reception table decor palette and running with it. 

Tap into your creativity by looking around your house for sentimental items that could be used. If you’re looking for more centrepiece ideas, check out these affordable Bridley wedding décor options. 

Images by Marissa Merrill Photography.

5. Drape Lights To Transform Your Reception Space

Wedding lighting is undoubtedly one of the most underrated elements. It’s amazing how lighting can truly transform a space—a huge plus when decorating on a budget. Whether your wedding reception will be taking place outside or inside, you can instantly add elegant and warm touches by strategically hanging twinkle lights. 

Images by Liz Osban.

6. Add Florals And Greenery

Whether it’s garlands of eucalyptus, giant tropical leaves, potted ferns, or olive branch wreaths, greenery has the power to add life and a sense of natural elegance to wedding décor without the large price tag of traditional floral arrangements. The best part is that you can add greenery just about anywhere and it will look great—on the backs of chairs, down the center of tables, even on the ground. Check out the times greenery wedding décor proved less is more.

Image by Gina & Ryan Photography.

7. Rent Items To Save Your Wedding Budget 

Wedding rentals are a budget-friendly couple’s best friends. There are endless rental opportunities—from seating to decor—that are offered at a fraction of the cost. As a bonus, you’ll save time and money not having to find everything yourself. Not to mention, you don’t have to worry about transportation on the day of the wedding—what a win. 

8. Shop Secondhand

While renting large wedding items is always a great idea, there may be unique items that simply can’t be rented. Rather than buying those items new, save some money by shopping at second-hand stores. It’s amazing what can be found at local thrift stores or even flea markets. While shopping, keep an eye out for everything from small centerpiece items to larger seating options. With a little creativity, the possibilities are endless. 

Image by Jane Lee. 

9. Make Big Statements With Select Pieces 

Rather than incorporating dozens of different over-the-top design elements, focus on one or two big items that will have a large impact on the look and feel of the space. With extra money left in the budget, find large ticket items—like these jaw-dropping Bridley wedding decorations—that complement the meaningful details and will leave a lasting impression. 

There are many eye-catching décor substitutes that won’t break the bank. If you’re looking for more budgeting tips that go far beyond the reception, you won’t want to miss the best wedding budget tips from Bridley.online.

 

 
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And so the adventure begins.

Real Wedding; Emily and Shae @Seacliff House

About You Two; Now, How did you two meet?

We actually first swiped right on Tinder but met the following day at the Laneway festival in Sydney.

Who popped the Question and how did it happen?

Shae popped the question at home (with the help of our fur baby Levi) after a nice dinner.

Why did you choose your venue and how was the venue choosing process?

The main non negotiable for us was having a pet friendly venue and we favoured those near the beach and BYO! Seacliff was a no brainer.

Quick Fire Questions;

How many wedding guests did you have?

125

Sit down of Cocktail Style?

Cocktail

What month?

September

Planning The Wedding;

Was planning the wedding stressful or did you enjoy the journey?

At the beginning I definitely enjoyed it but as it crept up I found myself getting a bit more stressed about the intricacies of the day. I had also never been to a cocktail wedding so wasn’t sure how the day was going to be structured.

How involved were you both in the wedding planning, did one of you take more of the lead on certain aspects than others or were you both equally involved?

I (Em) definitely took the lead but ran everything past Shae and he definitely helped when I wanted him too and liked to be involved.

What was the top couple of non-negotiables or important must-have’s at the wedding for you both?

Pet friendly, a party vibe and limited formalities.

Tell us about your dress and that dress-finding process?

The dress finding process was in the beginning not my fave. I had a clear vision of what I wanted and then in between getting engaged and married we had a baby so that all went out the window!! I then came across Bridley.online and sent my dream dress to them with my new baby bump measurements and specifying comfort. Although the dress had to have modifications, I was extremely happy with the end product. It was not only comfortable but the design exceeded my dream expectations & gave me life- long memories I will cherish for a long time. Thank you Bridley.online.

What sort of theme, vibe or style did you go for?

No theme really. I liked neutral coloured flowers from Bridley, but am also obsessed with disco balls. We weren’t too fussed on the décor, the venue & Bridley.online took the hard work out of it for us!

On the Day;

How did you both feel wedding morning?

I was stressed but excited. The weather was temperamental which was making me nervous but naturally Shae was super calm.

What was the best part or moment of your day?

Best part of the day was just seeing all of our family and friends together. It was incredible to see our worlds collide and see everyone in one place.

Anything you would change about your wedding or anything that didn’t go to plan?

Nothing I would change! I honestly think Bridley.online, oh and the rain helped bring everyone together in the end so I was able to stressed less.

Are there any rituals, sentiments or traditions you incorporated into the day?

Nope!

After the Wedding;

Describe newlywed life in a couple of words?

The same ha! But it has been nice to make our relationship ‘official’ and have the same last name as my daughter. And I loved looking back on my photos in my beautiful dream dress hand made by Bridley.online I was the  glowing (baby bump & all)

Best investment or money well spent on the wedding that you made?

100000% a coordinator! Especially having a bub in between I genuinely don’t know what I would have done without Bridley.online. The whole day went so smoothly and the lead up just made me so much calmer than what I would’ve been. Also having a venue we could spend the weekend at was worth every cent.

Budget-over, under or what you estimated?

Over, but not by much!

Thank you Bridley.online from us & baby bump

CategoriesTrending Stories

The Best Destination Wedding Locations for 2023

Dream Destination Wedding Locations – SA

Bridley knows that finding a wedding venue in your area is a task in itself, so we are going to show you just how  easy it is with Bark.com.  Enter your location and they’ll do all the legwork to get you fast, free quotes from the best wedding venues near you.

Its as easy as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

1 Post details: Post details of your wedding venues requirements in moments, completely free.
 
2 Find professionals: We will find wedding venues in your area and do the legwork to contact them on your behalf.
 
3 Get quotes: Receive fast free wedding venues quotes from the best wedding venues near you.
 
4 Compare: Review proposals, compare wedding venues prices and choose the best local wedding venues for your job.
 
5 Write review: Submit a review to help others find recommended wedding venues.
 

Compare free quotes from great Wedding Venues now!

Here are some of Brideys favourites for 2023

You are currently viewing 💕 23 Dream Destination Wedding Locations (2023)

💕 Dream Destination Wedding Locations (2023)

Planning your amazing destination wedding starts with Wedding SA. A destination wedding doesn’t need to be overseas, it can be somewhere gorgeous in Australia. Enjoy your ceremony, reception and honeymoon all in the one place! Whether you’re looking for a beachfront property, gourmet wine and dine experience, or something family friendly discover the best locations for destination weddings right now.

Maximilian Pavilion

Celebrate the region and season with our superb menus offering a variety of dining experiences from one of South Australia’s most famous restaurants.  Maximilian Pavilion is only 10 minutes from the Toll Gate but seemingly a world away, be enchanted by the elegant warmth and contemporary ambience. Delight in the sweeping country views over the lawn and lake from the Pavilion, an extension of the original homestead surrounded by vineyards.

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Glen Ewin Estate

At Glen Ewin Estate your wedding will be hosted in a breathtakingly garden setting, overlooking lakes and surrounded by mature trees and weeping willows. Only 4 minutes beyond the Adelaide suburbs, you will be surprised and delighted to discover such a beautiful Estate so close to the city.

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Adelaide Hills Convention Centre | Hahndorf

The multi award-winning Adelaide Hills Convention Centre, conveniently located 20 minutes from Adelaide’s CBD, is the idyllic setting to host every aspect of your special day. Sitting atop 32 acres of manicured grounds, showcasing uninterrupted views of the Mount Lofty Ranges, the state-of-the-art Adelaide Hills Convention Centre has the class and capacity to host your entire wedding in one convenient location.

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Port Lincoln Hotel

Port Lincoln Hotel offers panoramic ocean views, an abundance of natural light, and the energy and quality of a city establishment. Seating up to 220 for banquet style reception or 300 for cocktail reception, their function rooms offer breathtakingly views of Boston Bay.  They have detailed wedding packages to suit every wedding whether it is a small intimate wedding or a large extravagant celebration, they can take care of everything.

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Stamford Grand Adelaide

The romance of the sea, sweeping views from the balcony and the charm and elegance of the Grand Ballroom provide the most magnificent Adelaide wedding venue that South Australia offers – Stamford Grand Adelaide. Our smaller function rooms, the Moseley and Colley Rooms are perfect for a more intimate reception, both at one of the best wedding locations in Adelaide.

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The Victor Harbor Convention Centre

Whether your perfect day is an intimate garden setting with close friends and relatives, a lavish formal evening themed with all of your personal touches, a stylish cocktail party followed by live entertainment, Victor Harbor Convention Centre will do everything to ensure your special day is meticulously planned, managed and utterly unforgettable.

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Rydges Pit Lane at The Bend Motorsport Park

Motorsport and romance aren’t often used in the same sentence but who knew love, romance and motorsport could go so well together! Edgy-meets-romantic with the unique venues and sleek industrial backdrops at the Rydges Pit Lane Hotel at  The Bend Motorsport Park.

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InterContinental Adelaide

Celebrate your special day in style and elegance with Adelaide’s leading luxury hotel, InterContinental Adelaide. Positioned exclusively on the banks of the River Torrens, in the heart of the city centre, InterContinental Adelaide effortlessly blends luxury with comfort. There are several unique and versatile spaces to choose from, all of which can be transformed to match your own style and vision.

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Lady Bay Resort

Lady Bay Resort can cater for any event limited only by your imagination. They have everything including wedding ceremony options, reception venue, accommodation, restaurant and bar! They have just completed extensive renovations across the entire hotel, and are ready to showcase it to the world!

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Templewood House

Templewood House is a turn of the century country lodge with endless photo opportunities within a stunning Adelaide Hills equestrian property situated on the edge of the Millbrook Reservoir Reserve. Be mesmerised by the natural beauty of the property from the minute you arrive. Enjoy the serene Templewood House with exclusive use of the lawns and gardens with an incredible backdrop of native gums and rolling hills.

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Redwing Farm

Redwing Farm is situated on the beautiful Yorke Peninsula and is only a fifteen-minute drive from the white beaches of Moonta Bay. The 460 acre broadacre farming property offers a genuine farm wedding experience within the sweeping plains of the central Yorke Peninsula one of South Australia’s favourite holiday destinations. A fully flexible venue Redwing Farm allows you to select your preference of caterers, gourmet plated menu, food trucks or anything in between. 

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Sfera's Park Suites and Convention Centre

The all new Sferas offers 4 uniquely different newly renovated function and event ballrooms catering from 30-400 people for a wedding reception that will live long as one of the happiest memories of your life. All function rooms are elegantly appointed and each lends itself to creating the wedding theme you may just be looking for from vintage and rustic, to modern and glamourous. With the addition of deluxe accommodation with views of the city or lofty foothills on site, Sferas is a one stop destination for weddings where you’re bringing people together from all parts of Adelaide or beyond.

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Al Ru Farm

A visit to the gardens at Al Ru Farm is like transporting yourself to another world – picture yourself suddenly standing amongst the foliage of a private estate in France. This green sanctuary with its seasonal splashes of colour has led Al Ru Farm to become one of the most popular garden wedding venues in South Australia.

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Serafino McLaren Vale

Set amongst a tranquil lake, open green lawns and 200 year old gum trees, Serafino is the perfect place to stay, relax, celebrate and indulge. With breathtakingly surroundings, a choice of 2 impressing reception rooms, boutique onsite accommodation, friendly staff and great food and wine Serafino offers the total package!

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Silvestri's of Clarendon

Set in the beautiful valley township of Clarendon, Silvestri’s is a blend of contemporary design and heritage features. The property’s entrance is framed with stately wrought iron gates lending the restaurant building and its manicured gardens the presence of an exclusive private estate. Silvestri’s is boutique venue for stylish wedding receptions and garden ceremonies just 30 minutes south-east of the CBD.

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The Manor Basket Range

Weddings at The Manor Basket Range encapsulate everything you dream about in an Adelaide Hills wedding – rustic country charm, rolling hills, beautiful gardens and a relaxed yet sophisticated ambience.

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Manor Estate

Nestled in the McLaren Vale wine region, Manor Estate features beautifully terraced gardens, a grand English manor house, a cellar door, and boutique accommodation. Perfect for a secret garden wedding or an alfresco wedding with croquet and bocce on the lawns.

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Abbey Beach Resort

Amidst the stunning surrounds of the Margaret River Region, an Abbey Beach Resort wedding in Busselton promises you the kind of joyous occasion that comes with a stunning WA location, precise organisation, beautiful food and warm hospitality. Looking for perfect wedding venues in the Margaret River Region? You’ve found it.

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Villa Botanica

Perched on the edge of the Coral Sea in the glorious Whitsundays, Villa Botanica, with its superb gardens and architecture, is a wedding venue simply unmatched anywhere in Australia. Even more extraordinary is that on your wedding day, this grand 5 acre estate is exclusively yours to explore and enjoy.

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Botanica Weddings

Botanica Weddings understand just how important that magical setting is, how the unique location and ambience of your venue underpins the whole wedding experience.

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Wananavu Beach Resort

Wananavu Beach Resort is located on the most northern point of Fiji’s main island, Viti Levu. It’s two and a quarter hour’s drive from Nadi Airport offering the convenience of the mainland with the idyllic isolation of an island retreat.

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Ratua Private Island

Surrounded by 146 acres of tropical gardens and sandy beaches, Ratua Private Island offers attentive service, private accommodation, an over-water day spa, yacht club and superb dining. If you are looking for perfection, you may have just found it.

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African Dreams Holidays

Let African Dreams Holidays give you your heart’s desires. They are the experts on the Island of your dreams “Mauritius”, offering an array of deals to suit you. Why not extend to the sound and the smell of Africa, just a hop away from Mauritius. Jump into the land of the big five, tribal dancing, game reserves, people with their warm pearly white smiles and so much more.

Happy Searching : )