How Much Does a Wedding Decorator Cost? A 2023 Detailed Guide!

Do you feel overwhelmed by all the details of planning your dream wedding? Decorating your special day can significantly impact its overall feel and look. Wedding decorators can help with that. 

Decorations for weddings and other events are often created by wedding decorators who specialize in creating stunning and cohesive displays. As well as coordinating with other vendors, they can help bring your vision to life by designing, setting up and taking down decorations. 

Wedding decorators are experienced in taking the couple’s ideas and transforming them into a beautiful reality. They can help with everything from selecting the perfect colors and materials to creating elaborate centerpieces, backdrops and other decorative elements. They also have the knowledge and resources to source props, lighting and other special items to make the celebration unique.

This post will tell you everything you need to know about hiring a wedding decorator, including what services they provide, how the cost is determined and importantly, the average wedding decorator cost. Let’s dive in and make your wedding day one to remember!

Factors that Attribute to the Cost of Wedding Decorations 

Before we jump into the average cost of a wedding decorator, we should take into account the factors that play into how much the actual decorations cost. 

1. The amount of labor required to set up and take down the decorations can be greatly affected by the number of guests and the location of the wedding. More decorations will likely be required for a larger wedding with more guests, increasing the cost. Transporting decorations to a remote location may also be costly if the wedding is in a remote area.
2. More elaborate and intricate decorations will cost more. It is also important for the couple to consider the theme or style that they prefer, like bohemian, vintage or modern. In addition, if you wish to include special lighting, floral arrangements or other unique touches, the cost will also increase.
3. In addition to the season in which the wedding is held, the availability of the decorator can also affect the cost of wedding decorations. For example, there may be a price difference between the peak wedding season (spring and summer) and the off-season regarding flowers and other decorations. The rate may also be higher if you hire a popular decorator.
4. Lighting, floral arrangements, linens and rentals are all additional services that some decorators offer. A decorator’s cost will also be higher if they provide services like setup, take-down and cleanup.
5. The cost will be higher when you want custom decorations or unique elements that can’t be purchased in stores.

Each of the factors above will play into the overall cost of your wedding decorator. Now, let’s discuss how much an average wedding decorator costs based on their individual labor rates. 

What a Wedding Decorator Will Do For You

A wedding decorator usually decorates the ceremony and reception venues. Together with the couple, they create a cohesive and visually stunning look reflecting the couple’s style and theme. Decorate the ceremony and reception areas, coordinate with other vendors and set them up and take them down.

Decorators will take into account the architecture, size and layout of the venue, as well as the natural lighting, in order to create a look that complements and enhances the overall atmosphere of the event. In addition to setting up the decorations, they will also be responsible for the event’s breakdown and cleanup.

They will consider the type of event and the guest list in order to select the appropriate color scheme, materials and other details that will bring the event to life. They will also be responsible for ensuring that all the furniture and decorations are placed in the right positions to ensure that the event goes off without a hitch.

Not all wedding decorators decorate the ceremony and reception venues; some decorate only one or a few areas or handle only certain aspects of the decor. Before hiring event decorators, discuss their specific services and understand what is included.

Average Wedding Decorator Cost

There can be a wide range of costs associated with a professional event decorator, ranging from $500 up to $10,000. A wedding decorator’s experience and reputation, as well as the location of the wedding, can greatly influence the cost. Generally, the more experienced and well-known a decorator is, the more they will charge. Also, suppose the wedding is in a large city. In that case, the costs may be higher due to the additional expenses associated with the location.

Some decorators charge flat fees, while others charge hourly rates. Keep in mind that wedding decorations are only one aspect of the overall cost of a wedding, so they should be considered as part of the overall budget. To ensure that all the services that you expect to receive are included in the wedding decorator costs, it’s best to get a detailed quote from a decorator before hiring them.

This is important because you don’t want to be surprised with hidden costs down the line. It’s also important to understand what is included in the quote, such as setup and teardown, so you can budget accordingly.

Types of fees to expect when identifying wedding planners

Working with a wedding decorator can be a little intimidating as it’s an entirely new path however, there’s no need to be alarmed by the different pricing styles you’ll come across during your research phase. Here’s what to expect and a little breakdown to keep you in the loop

Flat-fee

This is a standard rate issued at the consultation based on the number of guests you will be having, the venue, and other factors that affect the workload of the decorator. This fee doesn’t change based on vendors, and other variables and might be a steal depending on where your budget is. Try to compare the rates your decorator is offering with other decorators to identify an industry standard to avoid being over-charged or settling for a cheaper decorator only to be disappointed on your big day.

Hourly Rate

This rate usually includes payment for the number of hours used to complete your decoration. The rate usually varies starting anywhere from $60 to $100. While the $60 rate may appear cheaper at first glance, we suggest asking for an estimate of how many hours the task will take before committing. The logic behind this is that experienced decorators working with teams may charge a higher hourly rate but get the desired results within a short time compared to a solo act.

Percentage Pricing

This pricing system allows the decorator to charge a percentage of the total amount spent on vendors used to create your masterpiece. It is very common amongst wedding decorators that double as wedding planners.

 Hybrid Pricing

This pricing includes charging an additional percentage on top of the flat rate or hourly rate. This is usually done when the decorator hires third-party vendors. This amount is usually to cover management fees.

How to Find Amazing Wedding Decorators

There is a lot of work involved in finding the right wedding decorator. You should begin your search at least six months before your wedding date to give yourself enough time to find the right person. The type of decor you want for your wedding is very important before you start looking for a wedding decorator.

Discover the styles and themes that appeal to you on Pinterest, Instagram and wedding blogs. Talk to your friends, family and other wedding vendors for recommendations. Maybe they had a positive experience working with an event decorator they’d recommend. 

Identify decorators who have a portfolio you’re interested in. You will be able to see how their work is done and you will be able to gauge their style and creativity. Researching the work of wedding decorators will give you an understanding of their style and whether it is suitable for your wedding. Additionally, talking to people who have hired them in the past will help you better understand their work ethic and experience.

It is wise to schedule a consultation with a decorator before hiring them. Getting to know them and their personalities will help you decide if they are the right fit for your project. Once you’ve found a decorator you like, make sure to review their contract carefully.

Detailed information about the services, the cost and other pertinent details will be provided here. Communication is essential between you and your decorator. It will ensure that the company understands what you are looking for and can achieve your goals.

Finding the right wedding decorator can take time and effort, but it’s well worth it. These tips will help you find the best wedding decorator to make your wedding day unforgettable. Make sure you start your search early, get inspiration, get references, review the decorator’s portfolio, meet with them and review their contract.

Besides all the work that goes into finding a decorator, we can’t emphasize enough the importance of a budget. A good decorator is one that is within your budget. Avoid booking a consultation with decorators above your budget as it will leave you dissatisfied when you eventually track down a decorator within your budget. Try to identify the going rate for the aesthetic you have in mind by getting multiple quotes to establish a starting point. While we don’t recommend going for the highest-priced service, we also don’t recommend extremely cheap services as they could end up being a huge letdown on your big day.

Searching for the perfect wedding decorator is like shopping for a new car: you want to make sure you’re getting the best features for the best price and from the most reputable source. Researching and comparing options can help ensure that your special day runs smoothly and looks fantastic.

Alternatives to Hiring a Wedding Decorator

Suppose you’re considering hiring a wedding decorator but are on a tight budget or prefer to have more control over the decorations. In that case, there are alternative options available to you.

1. DIY decorations: This can be a great option if you’re crafty and enjoy DIY projects. You can create your own decorations and save money on materials by shopping at thrift stores, garage sales or online marketplaces.
2. Renting decorations: Instead of buying decorations, you can rent them from a party rental company. This can save you money and reduce the amount of storage space needed for your decorations.
3. Using natural decorations: Incorporating natural elements like flowers, branches and trees can create beautiful and cost-effective decor. This also can be a great way to add a personal touch to your wedding.
4. Hire a wedding planner: Instead of a decorator, you could hire a wedding planner. They can help you with the overall planning of the wedding and can also help with the coordination and setup of the decorations.
5. Hire a day-of coordinator: A day-of coordinator is a professional who will help you plan, organize and execute your wedding day and also handle the decorations setup and coordination.
6. Utilize the venue’s decor: Some venues offer in-house decorating services or have their own in-house decor that can be used. This can save you money on decorations and decorating services.
7. Save the intricate pieces for the wedding table: If you want some classic pieces but can’t afford to have them on all your tables, you can opt to have them on the main wedding table. This allows you to retain the aesthetic you want without breaking the bank.
8. Maximize use of the cake: Wedding cakes are generally made to grab attention and you can use this to your advantage. As you already have the cake on hand all you need to do is have the cake in a strategic location as part of a centerpiece.

When it boils down to it, there are several alternative options to hiring a wedding decorator. Each option has its pros and cons and you should consider your specific needs, budget and preferences when deciding.

Check out our other favorite picks for stunning décor on your wedding day:

• How to Find and Decorate the Birch Wedding Arch of Your Dreams
• Astounding and Creative Wedding Decor Ideas
• Wedding Aisle Chair Decorations

Does Decorating Yourself for Your Wedding Save Money?

You can save money by decorating your wedding, depending on the circumstances. The use of a professional decorator can be expensive if you have a tight budget. You may also prefer to handle the decorations yourself if you have a clear vision and enjoy DIY projects.

Although you can decorate your own wedding, it can also be time-consuming and stressful. It is possible to spend more money on decorations if you are not experienced in decorating than you would have if you had hired a decorator. Additionally, DIY decorations may not look as polished or professional as those created by professionals.

Decorating your own wedding also involves the cost of materials and rentals, such as tables, chairs and linens. You might end up spending more than you would if you hired a decorator to handle these tasks for you. This is similar to trying to build your own furniture. Although you might think you’re saving money, you could spend more on the materials and tools than you would have spent to buy a professionally made piece.

Whether decorating your own wedding saves you money depends on the circumstances surrounding your wedding. Making a decision should be based on the cost of materials and rentals, the amount of time and effort required and the final result. Also, consider your skills, time and energy before taking on the task of decorating your own wedding.

Overall, yes. Decorating your own wedding has the potential to save you lots of money if done correctly.

Is Hiring a Professional Wedding Decorator Worth it?

After learning how much the average wedding decorator costs and how much money you can save if you opt to do it yourself, it may be tempting to consider whether or not a wedding decorator is worth all the hype. 

Here is our list of pros and cons of hiring a professional wedding decorator:

Pros:

An experienced wedding decorator can create visually stunning and cohesive wedding decorations. Their expertise can create a unique and memorable atmosphere based on the couple’s personal style and theme. As well as setting up, taking down and cleaning up the decorations, they can save you time.

You may find it difficult to achieve a level of professionalism and attention to detail on your own without the help of a professional wedding decorator. They can handle any unexpected issues since they know how to create a cohesive look.

Decorations, lighting, floral arrangements and rentals are just some of the resources available to professional decorators. Lighting and floral arrangements can also be included in their services, adding a special touch to your special day.

The stress that comes with planning a wedding can be greatly reduced by hiring a decorator. They can handle planning, executing and coordinating your wedding decorations, allowing you to focus on other details.

Cons:

An experienced wedding decorator can be expensive and not everyone can afford it. Wedding decorators can charge anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the size and complexity of the event.

Having a decorator design and execute your decorations entrusts them with the responsibility. You will have less control over the final outcome than if you were to decorate the wedding yourself, even though they’ll work with you to create a look that matches your style.

You will work with a decorator to create a cohesive and visually stunning look for your wedding, but it won’t reflect your personal taste as much as if you were to decorate it yourself.

A decorator might not be able to accommodate certain ideas or requests due to their set style. You may have fewer decorating options as a result.

It’s your responsibility to communicate your vision to the decorator, coordinate with them and ensure that they have all the needed information and materials.

The Takeaway

A wedding decorator can help bring your vision to life, save you time and handle the coordination and setup of the decorations. A wedding decorator can take care of all the details, from the smallest details, like table settings and centerpieces, to the larger details, like lighting and floral arrangements. They can also provide ideas and suggestions that help create a unique and beautiful look for your wedding.

However, it’s essential to consider the cost and level of control you want over the decorations when deciding. Alternatives are also available, such as DIY decorations, renting decorations, using natural wedding decorations, hiring a wedding planner, hiring a day-of coordinator and utilizing the venue’s decor. 

It’s important to weigh each option’s pros and cons and decide what is right for you and your budget.