Should You Rent or Buy Your Wedding Décor?

There are pros and cons to both options.

Not only do you have to decide how to dress up your event space, but you also need to figure out what to rent and what to buy.

pearl-and-gilt-charger-plates-and-vibrant-florals
Photo: Bob & Dawn Davis Photography

There are countless decisions that have to be made while planning a wedding – many of which involve the décor. Not only do you have to decide how to dress up your event space, but you also need to figure out what to rent and what to buy. Some of these choices are easy – after all, you probably don’t need a 100-piece set of china in the future and unless you have very specific tastes, the options available at a rental company should be fine. Other pieces used on your big day may be tougher to figure out. 

should you rent or buy your wedding decor?

Photo by Elisabeth Millay Photography; Planning & Design by DFW Events

One of the biggest benefits of renting décor is not having to deal with any of it after. The company will drop it off and pick it up when the festivities are over. For those who are environmentally conscious, there is also some peace of mind due to knowing these elements will be used again once your big day is complete. Renting also tends to be cost effective, as long as you have no intention of using the item again. 

This brings us to the benefits of purchasing décor. There will be some pieces that you may choose to use to decorate your home. Frames, cake stands, or even throw pillows in your lounge area can easily double as mementos around your house after the big day. There will also be some situations where you may find a deal on bulk goods, such as napkins, where purchasing is the more economical option. As a bonus, you can try to resell them or lend them to a friend getting married once your wedding is complete. 

However, be cautious about committing to buying many of your décor items, such as lanterns or planter boxes, with the idea of selling them to recoup some of the cost. While the extra money is nice, don’t underestimate the time it will take to make the sale, as well as clean and package the products. It’s also not a good option for couples with a small living space. If the vision of your reception includes a lounge area and you also need to refurnish your home, you may think buying sofas to keep after the big day is a good idea. It certainly could work out, but you don’t want to spend your wedding day worrying that a guest will spill on your new furniture. 

For more ideas, see your guide to planning a garden wedding and what to do when you're sick of planning