Wedding Décor Hire in London: How to Have a Stunning Wedding on a Budget

Planning a wedding is undoubtedly one of the most special experiences of one’s life. However, it unfortunately comes with a heavy price tag. Every couple dreams of a luxurious wedding, but budget constraints often prove to be a hindrance to making that dream come to life.

The good news is that it is possible to host a lavish wedding without breaking the bank. With proper planning, effort, and creativity, you can host an event that is memorable and special not only for you but also for the guests.

One of the most practical and affordable ways to host a wedding where you can fit all your preferences into a restrained budget is to opt for smart hire – whether you’re thinking of an intimate garden party wedding or a lavish banquet affair – hiring wedding décor can help you create a visually stunning setup without compromising on the quality.

This blog is your ultimate guide to navigating the world of wedding décor in London. We aim to help you find the right suppliers, make the most of your budget, and incorporate other DIY elements to make your day truly special.

Why Renting Décor Is a Smart Choice

Décor plays an essential role in setting the ambiance and tone for your event. However, purchasing brand-new décor can put a huge dent in your budget, especially in a city like London where prices for décor goods soar every day. This is where renting wedding décor comes in handy as a cost-effective and convenient solution.

Financially Sensible

Renting wedding décor enables you to gain access to trendy and high-quality décor items at a fraction of the original price. From stages to lighting – everything can be hired if you choose the right event company. Additionally, hiring companies also offer themed packages that include décor and furniture items customised to suit specific themes such as garden parties, The Great Gatsby, black and white, and more!

No More Logistics Hassle

There are plenty of things to manage on your wedding day – stressing about the logistics of item delivery and pick-up should be the last thing on your mind on such a special occasion. Most hiring companies offer delivery, setup, and pick-up services for the equipment you hire to save you the unnecessary hassle of moving things around so you can focus on enjoying your big day.

Storage Solution

Wedding day equipment often includes bulky and fragile items such as furniture, arches, centrepieces, and plinths that can be a hassle to store after the event is covered. Renting also saves you the nuisance of arranging storage for these items and having to resell them.

Cost Comparison – Hiring vs Buying Wedding Décor

It’s beneficial to weigh the financial implications of each decision so you don’t end up exceeding your budget. Hiring wedding décor can save you up to 60% to 80% compared to purchasing new items for one-time use.

For instance, festoon lights (often an essential décor item for outdoor weddings) can cost approximately £100 – £200 when purchased. However, the hiring price of festoon lights offered by most hiring companies around London is around £30 – £60 (varying by the lighting meters).

Additionally, whether you’re buying or selling décor and equipment items, it’s essential to watch out for any hidden costs. If you’re renting out any equipment, make sure to ask the hiring company whether the delivery and pick-up fee is included in the overall package or will be charged separately. Security deposits are another cost to watch out for. However, they’re often refundable if the items are returned in good condition or without damage.

Who Can Benefit from Wedding Décor Hire?

Hiring wedding décor isn’t merely about saving money – it’s also about unleashing your creativity and making your vision come to life in a way that is sustainable and convenient. While everyone can benefit from hiring event equipment, it can be especially wise for certain wedding types and planning styles. These are:

DIY Couples

There seems to be a popular notion these days that not hiring a wedding planner or organiser is committing matrimony malice. Luckily, that couldn’t be further from the truth. There are countless DIY wedding decoration ideas that you and your partner can recreate.

For instance, by hiring the main décor pieces such as table centrepieces, plinths, lighting, and furniture, you can free up time and energy to focus on customised details such as wedding signs, the menu, and party favours to make them more special for your loved ones.

Weddings with a Tight Budget

Not everyone can afford to or wants to spend tens of thousands on a wedding event – and that’s completely understandable. Your wedding day should be remembered for the happy memories you shared with your partner and loved ones – not the dent it put on your bank account. Therefore, it’s not necessary to go out of your comfort zone.

Hiring décor is one of the most convenient ways to cut down wedding costs without compromising on the aesthetics and vision for the wedding.

Eco-friendly Weddings

Sustainability is a growing priority among new couples and even event attendees. Renting décor aligns perfectly with eco-friendly practices. Instead of buying single-use or disposable items, you’re contributing to a circular economy where décor is reused, cleaned, and repurposed for multiple events, supporting a lower carbon footprint.

Destination & City-based Weddings

If you’re planning a destination or city-based wedding, particularly in a city with plenty of hustle and bustle like London, it can get challenging to navigate the work that comes with planning and executing a wedding by yourself. Décor hire eliminates the need for large vehicles, arranging storage units, and extra labour. With hiring, everything arrives at the venue ready to be used and set up so you can sit back and enjoy your wedding day!

Wedding Décor Hire – Benefits

There are countless benefits to hiring wedding décor rather than purchasing new items. Hiring companies often provide professional advice on how to set up the items according to themes and preferences for event style as a part of their service. Therefore, you gain access to experienced professionals who know how to elevate or enhance a venue’s aesthetic without the cost of a wedding designer.

Additionally, hiring companies also provide sample looks, mockups, and in-person showroom visits where you can gain inspiration on the tone and aesthetics you want for your wedding day. This can also provide a great visual on how the décor items look together – eliminating the guesswork.

Access to statement pieces like an 8-foot floral arch, vintage furniture, or custom lighting fixtures is simply impractical to buy for one-time use. Hiring allows you access to luxury and unique statement pieces without having to break the bank.

Essential Wedding Décor to Hire

Creating a gorgeous wedding atmosphere doesn’t mean you need to own or hire every décor item available – it just requires knowing what to hire. The right rental pieces can transform even the blandest venue into a breathtaking celebration space while also saving cost, energy, and time. Here is a list of some of the essential décor items you must hire for your special day:

Centre Pieces and Table Décor

Go Floral – Soft and Elegant

Floral arrangements are necessary at weddings. Consider investing in fresh or artificial arrangements as long as they’re high-quality and go with the rest of the décor. From roses and orchids to white wildflowers, there are plenty of options to choose from. If floral and elegant is the vibe you’re going for.

Lanterns and Candlesticks

Nothing radiates vintage allure and subtle romance like ornate candlesticks and tall lanterns. Available in silver, gold, and antique finishes – these centrepieces make the ideal addition to dimly lit venues and evening events.

Vases and Taper Candles

Out of a minimalist couple’s dream – Clean white tapers paired with bud vases bring in just the right colour and glowy candlelight to the venue. A bonus addition to this pair can be hand-painted or customised table runners and menu cards.

Arches and Backdrops

Floral Arches – An All-Time Favourite

Arches are an essential part of your special day as they’re the focal point for your vows. There are several designs you can try to ensure the arch décor looks unique and aesthetic.

For instance, overlapping arches and double arches decorated with embellishments and adorned by mirror surfaces have recently become a wedding favourite. Alternatively, if you’re looking to break away from the traditional floral arches, giant light-up star arches are another popular choice among couples for their wedding day.

Fabric-Draped Backdrops

Fabric-draped backdrops can be great to place behind the altar and photo booths. Consider flowy fabrics like cotton or chiffon, preferably in ivory, baby pink, and champagne to bring a touch of sophistication and softness to any venue. However, Art Deco black and golden backdrops also work great for bold themes.

Rustic Wooden Arches

You can never go wrong with a rustic wooden arch – pick your favourite shape, be it rectangular, semi-circular, or diamond-shaped, and add a pop of colour to bring some energy to the venue through some floral décor and table runners.

Themed Backdrops (vintage, minimalist, and boho)

If your special day is planned around a specific theme, there’s no reason why a backdrop should be left out. Several rental companies provide themed backdrops for vintage, minimalist, and boho themes. For instance, consider choosing golden sequenced curtains for a 1920s Gatsby-style wedding or sleek white panels for a rather sophisticated and minimalist look.

Drapes and Fabric Décor

Ceiling Drapes

There are tons of options out there to choose from when it comes to ceiling drapes. Our personal favourite includes drapes that offer a rippled effect to the ceilings and frame the room’s entrance. Sheer ceiling drapes and festoon lights can also be the perfect choice for an outdoor event to create a romantic illusion of a starry night sky.

Curtain Backdrops

Curtain backdrops that align with the colour scheme and tone for the event are necessary to frame important areas like the cake table, DJ booth, or photobooth. Consider picking airy and lightweight fabric, particularly for outdoor weddings. Or, if you’re a winter bride/groom, you can never go wrong with some gorgeous velvet.

Canopy Draping for Outdoor Receptions

Canopy draping is the perfect addition to establish a romantic and tent-like atmosphere. The canopy can be draped from the top to create an arched-like look or wrap the tent poles for a more sophisticated approach. Either way, they’re necessary to achieve the perfect ambiance.

Lighting and Ambiance

Fairy Lights and String Lights

Lighting is an essential element to set the tone, ambiance, and aesthetic for your reception. Consider hiring festoon lights, fairy bulbs, and string lights that can be woven through ceiling drapes, canopies, or hung around outdoor spaces.

LED Letters and Neon Signs

LED letters and neon signs have become a wedding staple. They’re used by couples to make a statement and display affection and love for one another. You can spell out LOVE, Mr. & Mrs, your initials, or even the date you met and fell in love. This can also become a keepsake for your home and serve as the backdrop for wedding photos.

Chandeliers and Candle Holders

Candle holders and chandeliers add luxury and glamour to your reception. Make sure to add matching candle holders throughout the event to maintain uniformity in the décor scheme and enhance the look of the venue.

Wedding Table Settings

Charger Plates and Elegant Cutlery

Trendy and sophisticated cutlery is necessary to give the furniture a polished and sophisticated look. Daniel Lay Event Services offers affordable deals that include a diverse range of elegant cutlery and charger plates.

Vintage Crockery for Themed Weddings

If you’re as passionate about vintage-themed events as we are, consider adding mismatched china to add a whimsical charm. Tea sets and pastel-coloured crockery can be the ideal addition for tea receptions and garden parties.

Glassware and Table Name Holders

Crystal wine glasses or coloured tumblers for a boho feel, glasses variety at any reception must suit the couple’s style. Compliment the variety with elegant table name holders like gold stands or acrylic frames to help the guests find their seating in style.

Themed and Statement Décor

Go Boho

Boho is always a popular option – think macramé wall hangings, table runners, and chair backs. Add in woven rugs and pampas grass to go all out and have the wedding of your dreams!

1920s Gatsby style & Black Décor

Everyone loves a Gatsby theme – pick black tablecloths, black and gold backdrops, Art Deco patterns with giant feather plumes, and geometric props to get the 1920s feel.

Rustic Barrels and Wooden Crates

Rustic weddings with additions of barrels used as drink stations, cake tables, and wooden furniture can be the ideal option for countryside, barn, and garden venues.

With countless décor options at your disposal, Daniel Lay Event Services makes it easy for you to host your ideal wedding without draining your budget.

Whether you’re thinking of a sophisticated garden party wedding, a glamourous Gatsby-style party, or a classy minimalist celebration, their inventory and team can make your vision come to life so you can host your dream wedding any day, any time!

Where to Find the Best Wedding Décor Hire Services in London and Nearby Areas

When it comes to planning and executing the perfect wedding day, every detail requires attention. However, the décor is undoubtedly one of the most important elements for the big day.

The type of décor you pick for your event is going to set the tone and ambiance for the event. Therefore, it is significant not to think of decorations as mere embellishments. Instead, try to bring your ideal décor vision to life and ensure it embodies the essence of the celebration by reflecting your and your partner’s personalities and the joy of the occasion.

Budget-Friendly Options Vs Luxury Décor Hire

When selecting a décor company for your wedding, you’ll need to decide between a budget-friendly option and a luxury décor service. This choice will most likely depend on your preference for the overall vision for the wedding, budget, and venue.

Budget-Friendly Décor Hire

Affordable wedding décor hire usually focuses on providing you with the basic essentials for the day. These include chair covers, table runners, centrepieces, and drapes as backdrops. Most rental companies also offer the option for you to rent the items and set them up for yourself so you can save on setup and labour costs.

This option is ideal for couples who want a minimalist or simple ambiance for their wedding and are running on a tight budget. This option also gives you the opportunity to take the reins yourself and go with some DIY touches.

Daniel Lay Event Services offers décor items for hire that can be booked on a stand-alone basis without a bundle or a themed package. You can also visit the warehouses yourself to check out the products before you finalise them for hire.

Luxury Décor Hire

If you’re aiming for a high aesthetic and glamourous wedding, luxury décor hire is the way to go. Luxury décor hire includes furniture options, custom floral installations, chandeliers, stage setups, lighting, and AV equipment. Additionally, luxury décor hire also includes themed packages that include the necessary décor customised to specific themes, with delivery and setup included.

Some companies may even offer on-the-day styling and full management services to ensure everything remains top-notch. Daniel Lay Event Services also offers luxury décor hire with countless options to pick from for the furniture, lighting, props, and themed packages. The most popular themed packages include:

• 1920s – a Great Gatsby Style Wedding
• Black and White Glamour
• Garden Party – Intimate and Cosy
• Rustic and Boho – Vintage and Aesthetic

There are also other ways to host a wedding that offer a glamorous experience for the guests while staying well within your budget. For instance, catering at luxury weddings often includes multi-course meals, fine dining experiences, and high-end beverage selections. However, if you’re planning a wedding on a budget, consider cost-effective meal options such as food trucks or buffet-style catering.

Additionally, luxury weddings opt for well-known photographers and videographers. For those dealing with budget constraints, there are several talented start-up photography businesses out there with affordable rates.

Lastly, it’s not necessary to go all out on the entertainment element; luxury weddings often opt for live bands, orchestra, or celebrity performance to add a touch of extravagance – this comes with its own costs. Budget weddings, on the other hand, can simply hire high-quality AV equipment with a DJ or a curated playlist to get an equally good job done!

Budget-Friendly Wedding Décor Tips

Creating a beautiful wedding doesn’t necessarily have to mean stretching your budget. With some creativity, thorough planning, and extra effort, you can host the wedding of your dreams that provides the perfect guest experience and leaves you and your loved ones with lasting memories.

DIY Elements Combined with Hiring Affordable Décor

One of the most popular and effective ways to reduce décor costs is to hire big-scale items that you can not manage by yourself and do a DIY on the remaining ones. For instance, hire large-scale installations like arches, stages, lighting, and furniture to ensure a polished venue outlook. However, small-scale items can easily be managed by yourself.

Get creative and pull some DIY projects on photo booths, props, table signage, table numbers, and centrepieces. Use glass jars and repurpose wine bottles as vases and fill them with seasonal flowers or greenery. You can also print out table numbers and invitations using elegant templates to avoid design and printing costs.

Moreover, consider adding a touch of candlelight for a spark of romance. Invest in some pillar candles and festoon lights to enhance the ambiance.

Reuse Décor Across the Ceremony and Reception

Creativity is key to saving unnecessary expenses. Many couples overlook the importance of reusing the same décor at the ceremony and reception. This leads to double the costs that could easily have been avoided. A sustainable and affordable strategy can help you save on hefty costs while also making logistics more efficient.

For instance, floral arrangements lining the aisle can later be placed into vases and used as table centrepieces. A ceremony arch can also serve as a gorgeous backdrop for the head table and photo booth. Lanterns and welcome signage can also be placed in different parts of the venue to enhance the overall décor and maximise value.

You can also request your rental hire company to coordinate the logistics of these items between the ceremony and the reception. Many companies are happy to assist in this transition.

Rent Multipurpose Items

Whenever you’re picking the décor for your big day, focus on hiring multipurpose items that can be used across the ceremony and reception. For instance, chairs used during the ceremony can be moved to the reception tables. However, make sure the venue has sufficient time for a speedy setup switch.

Additionally, an archway along with LED signage can be used as a ceremony backdrop and a photo booth background. Decorative creations, barrels, or plinths can be used as signage near the entrance and later placed across the photo booth for some decoration or repositioned as display stands for desserts and refreshments.

Pick Seasonal Floral Arrangements

Weddings are incomplete without flowers as décor. Flowers are a significant element in the overall décor strategy for your big day, but they prove to be equally as expensive. Opting for a flower archway and floral arrangements as centrepieces can be significantly costly. However, there’s a hack to save costs when purchasing florals for your special day – choose flowers that are in season locally during your wedding months.

For instance, ponies look ethereal as decorative elements but can be quite costly outside of the spring season. Similarly, dahlias and sunflowers are affordable and abundant during the summer and early autumn. Therefore, pick carefully!

These budget tips have been crafted to help you plan a wedding that’s stylish, personal, and memorable without putting a dent in your budget. There’s nothing stopping you from hosting the wedding of your dreams as long as you plan thoroughly and execute your plan strategically!

Top Rated Wedding Décor Hire

London and its nearby areas have a popular centre for wedding décor companies. Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional affair or some contemporary glamour, there is a wide range of options at your disposal to pick from.

Daniel Lay Event Service, based in London, Kent, Surrey, and Kent is renowned across the UK for its trendy and high-quality inventory with themed event styling. We offer countless options for furniture, lighting, and other décor items. Their services are ideal for couples looking for high-quality décor with affordable pricing.

We offer durable and budget-friendly options that you can use for your big day. Furniture pieces are meticulously selected and go through a unique process of hand-finishing each item in-house at the factory. From sanding to spraying – attention is paid to every detail to ensure you get access to the highest-quality furniture for your big day.

At Daniel Lay, we bring your vision for your special day to life by creating themed sets and venue décor that stand out. We also offer a tailored planning service and collaborate with clients throughout every process to meet their expectations.

We have a wide variety of tents and marquees ideal for weddings. You can either hire the tent on its own or include add-on items such as dance floors, lighting, furniture, heating, and more.

Daniel Lay Event Services is a trustworthy name in event planning. We are well-reviewed on several platforms, such as Google and social media platforms like Facebook. The consistent good ratings are a great metric to measure their commitment to offering over-the-top services.

Wedding rental hire is becoming increasingly popular due to the trendy variety of options combined with the affordability it offers, which is why London is filled with rental companies that provide high-quality décor options. We recommend choosing a company that’s relatively close to your location or has factories or inventory in multiple areas across the city. This way, you can avoid any last-minute mishaps with availability or product defects.

What to Check for When Hiring a Wedding Décor Company

With so many options available, it’s necessary to hire a supplier carefully. Here are the factors to look out for before finalizing a wedding décor company.

Reviews and Testimonials

Client feedback is the most reliable way to get an idea about a professional service. Check for reviews and testimonials on Google, Facebook, Instagram, and other social media platforms related to the supplier.

Hitched.co.uk and Trustpilot also offer authentic insights from previous customers and clients. Don’t hesitate to ask the clients directly if you can review their portfolio before hiring, and if it’s possible to view the inventory before finalizing your contract.

Experience and Portfolio

A great décor company will have an extensive and well-documented portfolio ready to be displayed to potential customers. Check out whether they’ve executed different themes and styles so far in their career or planned weddings similar to your vision and size before. Generally, the more experienced a hiring company is, the better.

What’s Included in the Package?

It is recommended to always seek details about included in a specific package before finalizing your contract. Some companies include delivery, setup, and pick-up services, while others charge extra for these.

Clarifying these costs in advance helps you avoid last-minute budget mishaps. Additionally, if you’re hiring themed packages that include furniture and props, make sure to ask whether lighting, linens, and floral arrangements are also included or will be charged separately.

Customization Options

Some companies offer customization services, while others may not be able to accommodate you if you’re not willing to compromise or let go of some of your preferences. Therefore, make sure to confirm whether or not the supplier will be able to accommodate some of your needs.

Hidden Fees

Always be cautious of any fees that may be embedded in the contract but easily be overlooked. These charges usually include VAT, delivery or pick-up costs, damage waivers, or overtime fines. It is recommended to ask for an itemised quote to avoid problems with the budget later.

Availability and Flexibility

Availability often becomes an issue during peak wedding season. Therefore, suppliers recommend booking your hired items well in advance to ensure you don’t deal with availability problems and can look for other options if the desired items aren’t in stock.

Wedding Décor Hire Cost – Based on Your Region

Wedding décor hire and its cost vary by region – it’s not possible to provide an exact estimate unless the region, number of guests, and relevant items are identified. However, we’ve compiled a table below displaying prices by region for a standard-sized wedding to help you plan a budget for your special day.

Wedding décor costs vary by region. This is due to high costs associated with metropolitan cities such as London, where inflation and logistics costs soar on a day-to-day basis. Therefore, if you’re located within or near London, it’s safe to expect a slightly more expensive décor hire.

Tips to Get the Best Value for Your Budget

Here’s how to get value for your money with wedding décor hire.

Go for Packaged Services

Many décor companies offer bundled packages where lighting, décor, and audio-visual services are bundled into a single service. These can help save money while also ensuring a cohesive décor design.

A Focus on Important Areas is the Key

Instead of going all out, focusing on key areas can be an excellent way to get the best value for your money (particularly if you’re running on a budget constraint). Rather than decorating the entire venue, focus on key areas such as the ceremony backdrop, entrance, photo booth, and head table. This is because these areas serve as backdrops in photos and also shape guest experiences.

Combine DIY with Professional Décor

You can also choose to hire big-ticket items such as furniture, lighting, and stage while also incorporating DIY items such as candleholders, table centrepieces, and signage. This eliminates some unnecessary expenses while giving you an opportunity to add personalised touches to your wedding day.

Opt for Off-Season Bookings

Décor and associated items are likely to be twice as expensive during peak season, which typically starts in March and goes on till November. Hosting your wedding during the off-peak season leads to less expensive prices with suppliers willing to give out bigger discounts and deals.

By comparing prices, reviewing portfolios, and looking out for factors that can help you achieve your wedding vision, you can easily find a décor company that aligns with your vision and budget.

Conclusion – Wedding Décor Hire in London

Wedding décor hire goes far beyond aesthetics – it’s about creating an experience that reflects your style, sets the tone for your big day, fits your budget, and brings your dream wedding to life. Whether you’re planning a grand celebration or an intimate ceremony, London and its surrounding areas have countless suppliers ready to make your dream wedding a reality.

By starting your planning early and comparing different suppliers across London, you can ensure a smooth and efficient wedding experience for yourself and the attendees. Moreover, hiring big-scale décor items yourself and incorporating DIY elements, reusing multipurpose items throughout the ceremony and reception, and carefully picking the right wedding décor hire supplier in London enables you to achieve a luxurious look for your day without overspending.

Don’t forget to communicate your desired vision and preference for your special day to the supplier in advance so that they can offer their professional and experienced insight to make the décor and ambiance even more glamorous.

Let your imagination lead the way – and let your wedding décor hire company handle the rest!

Ready to Transform Your Wedding Vision into Reality?

Whether you’re dreaming of an elegant garden party or a glamorous Gatsby-style celebration, Daniel Lay Event Services is here to make it happen — without stretching your budget.

Get in touch today to explore our décor hire packages or speak to a specialist about your ideas.

Contact us by filling out our enquiry form or give us a call on 0800 112 0808 to start planning your wedding day.

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs

How much does wedding décor hire cost in London?

The cost of wedding décor hire in London varies by décor preference and the size of the event you’re planning. However, a standard estimate for budget-friendly packages can cost around £800 – £2,000, whereas if you hire large-scale items and manage the setup by yourself, you can expect a deal of £500 – £1,200. Luxury décor hire, however, costs range anywhere from £2000 – £3500.

How far in advance should I book décor hire?

Ideally, you should book your wedding décor hire around 10 to 9 months in advance, especially if you’re hosting your wedding during peak season. Choosing and finalizing wedding décor hire is a lengthy process.

For instance, you will need to research suppliers, pick one that best suits your vision, request quotes, and finalise themes, colour pallets, and décor items.

Booking timely ensures your preferred suppliers don’t book out early, and you also have sufficient time for custom orders.

Do wedding hire companies set up the décor for me?

Most wedding hire companies offer delivery and setup services. However, this can vary depending on the type of package you pick and the company’s policies. Some budget or dry hire packages may not include setup services. This must be cleared out and discussed with your supplier in advance.

If setup services are not included in your package, you will need some extra time prior to the day of the ceremony to plan and execute a smooth and efficient setup. This can be time-consuming.

Can I customise the hired décor to match my theme?

Yes, customizing hired décor to match your theme is possible. In fact, most wedding décor hire companies encourage clients to do so. Suppliers also offer flexible styling options to cater to different preferences so customers can adapt the décor to their desired vision.

What happens if an item gets damaged during the event?

If an item gets damaged during the event, you will need to pay a replacement or repair fine. Most companies also take a security or damage deposit at the time of the booking. So, depending upon the company’s policy, they may deduct the amount from the security deposit or invoice a replacement or repair fee separately.