Wedding Decor Prices: Actual Cost Guide For 2023 + Audio Version

Most brides have a good handle on the expected costs of bridal gowns and wedding cake. But the average wedding decor prices remain somewhat of a mystery.

Well, we’re here to clear that up for you.

Are you struggling to find time to read about the latest wedding news? Listen to the audio version of our post and stay up-to-date while on-the-go!

An Average Event Decorator Cost

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eventdesignbykahlia

How much a wedding decorator costs primarily depends on their experience and reputation. The average hourly rate runs somewhere between $60 to $100 per hour or a total of around $600 to $1000. But, keep in mind that a seasoned veteran is more likely to work more expeditiously and with better results.

It’s also important to note at this point wedding decor costs are not included in the decorator’s costs.

Steps On Hiring An Event Decorator

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andreapatrizifloraldesigner

Hiring an event decorator starts with research. This important step in planning a wedding ensures that your decorator is reliable, have a great experienceand works professionally. Once you’ve made your selection you can expect to go through these typical steps.

1. Initial consultation: This first meeting is to build a mutual understanding. You’ll let your decorator know about the venue, the design theme, and how many guests will be attending. You’ll also discuss the budget you have in mind.
2. Plan and Budget: Your wedding decorator will then present you with their ideas. This usually takes the form of a vision board, mockups, or samples. This will involve a list of items that need to be purchased or rented. It will also include an all-in breakdown of wedding decorator costs.
3. Rent or Buy: A professional decorator communicates reliably. They’ll give you the best advice about deciding between purchasing, renting, or fabricating.
4. Set-Up: Much like building a house, the materials have to arrive in the right order for everything to come together as planned. The decorator will oversee these logistics and make sure the initial blueprint is followed.
5. Tear Down: Rentals are returned and the mess is cleaned up.

Event Decorator Fees

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eventdesignbykahlia

Depending on the part of the country or working in and the type of company/individual you’re hiring, you may encounter a few different pricing structures.

Here are the main 4 wedding decoration prices you’ll encounter.

• Flat Rate: This wedding decorations cost structure is pretty self-explanatory. The number of guests that attend and if the venue is indoors or outdoors is the common factors that affect the rate.
• Expenses Percentage: A low-cost wedding indicates a small number of guests and a smaller amount of decorating. A high-cost wedding promises lots of tables, lots of guests, and lots of work. This structure is more common when the decorator doubles as a wedding planner.
• Hourly Rate: As mentioned earlier, this wedding decoration cost structure is the most common. Make sure to get an estimate for how many hours you’ll be on the hook for.
• Hybrid: If your decorator is hiring 3rd party vendors, it’s not uncommon to charge a 10-20% management fee on top of their flat or hourly rate.

You shouldn’t have to worry too much about hidden or unexpected fees. Professionals who make a habit of this are called out on social media pretty quickly.

What Impacts The Cost Of A Wedding Decor?

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andreapatrizifloraldesigner

The size of your wedding venue and the number of guests is the biggest wedding decor cost factor. Of course, there are other things you need to consider.

The location of your wedding plays a major role. For example, Beverly Hills weddings are always going to cost more than a similar event in Tulsa. The location also dictates how far your decorator has to travel.

The complexity of your decorations will also drive the cost up. Elaborate ornamentation or hard to find pieces make your decorator’s work more difficult.

Wedding Decor Prices: Tips On Saving Money

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The easiest way to cut back on your wedding decor prices is by procuring cheap wedding decorations.

Beyond that, talk to your decorator about their service structure. They may be able to cut you a financial break if you can take on some of the work yourself.

In some cases, you can be left in charge of buying and renting. In others, you can be responsible for tear down and clean up. This can cause conflicts so it doesn’t happen often, but it’s worth a shot when trying to save money.

The most common cut back tactic is to opt for the initial consultation. Pay your professional decorator for their ideas and a documented plan. Then, make it happen!

Tips On Hiring An Event Decorator

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eventdesignbykahlia

When it comes to hiring an event decorator, the most important tip is to hire someone who “gets you”. Some professionals have been in the game so long that they just immediately think they know what you want without actually listening. Others aren’t very flexible with how they structure their services. Some just lack experience.

For the best results, follow these tips:

1. Spend a good amount of time on social media reading reviews
2. Ask your friends and family if they have referrals
3. Get multiple quotes so that you know you’re getting the best price
4. Browse their portfolio to make sure it matches your style
5. Get an itemized cost list to make sure there are no surprises

The easiest way to pay more than you need and get less than you expect is to rush things. With everything else wedding-related, it’s always best to give yourself and your vendors as much notice as possible. Enough time to organize and execute a plan removes the stress and reduces the possibility of mistakes. Three to six months is a good amount of time.

Plan ahead and budget wisely and you’ll do good. Find a wedding decorator that shares your vision and passion, know actual wedding decor prices, and you’ll do great!