Planning the perfect wedding means making a lot of decisions, and when it comes to decor, one of the biggest choices is whether to rent or buy. Both options have their perks and pitfalls, and finding the right balance depends on your budget, vision, and the long-term value you want from your decor.
From budget-friendly rentals that take the stress out of setup to the lasting memories tied to purchased pieces, the decision can be tricky. In this post, I’ll break down the benefits and drawbacks of both choices to help you make the best decision for your big day.
Why the ‘Rent vs Buy’ Decision Is Crucial for Your Wedding Decor
When I was planning my wedding at Vogue Ballroom, one of the first decisions I had to make was whether to rent or buy our wedding decor. It felt like a huge question, especially when you’re trying to keep costs down but still create the perfect atmosphere. And trust me, it’s a decision that can make or break your budget, your style, and even the flow of your day.
Wedding decor can seem like a minor detail in the grand scheme of things, but let me tell you, it plays a massive role in shaping the overall mood. The right decor can elevate your wedding theme, make your photos pop, and ensure your venue feels like a dream. But the question is—how do you get there without breaking the bank or dealing with endless stress?
Whether you’re in Melbourne or planning a destination wedding, the rent vs buy decision should be based on a few key factors. These include your budget, the time you have to prepare, the uniqueness of your style, and, of course, what you plan to do with the decor after the big day.
The Impact of Your Choice on Budget and Aesthetics
The price tag is often one of the first things that couples consider when choosing between renting or buying their wedding decor. As someone who has worked with various suppliers in the industry, I can tell you that renting usually provides immediate cost savings. You pay for what you need for one day—no more, no less. The flexibility in what you can rent also allows you to mix and match items that reflect your wedding vision, without the risk of being stuck with a pile of decor you’ll never use again.
For example, when we were planning our wedding, we knew we didn’t want to compromise on our venue’s elegant look. Renting high-end floral arrangements, chair covers, and intricate lighting fixtures allowed us to add those special touches without the hefty price tag of buying each piece.
On the other hand, buying is usually a better fit if you want items that truly reflect your style. A personalised sign, a custom-built wedding backdrop, or a vintage set of chairs for your ceremony — these things are much easier to buy than to rent, and they offer a keepsake value. When you buy, you own the decor, which means it can stay with you long after your wedding day as cherished reminders.
Factors Influencing Your Wedding Decor Decision
I can’t tell you how many couples I’ve spoken to who found themselves overwhelmed by the choices when it comes to wedding decor. Some wanted to rent everything to save money, but then realised they had specific needs for things like signage or vintage wedding decor that didn’t fit the rental model. Others were dead-set on buying everything to have personalised pieces, but later found themselves scrambling to store it all or resell it after the wedding.
Your decision largely depends on your priorities. Are you on a tight budget but still want to impress your guests? Rent those high-end statement pieces and focus your funds on areas that matter most, like your dress or the catering. Want everything to match your unique theme, like rustic wedding decorations or romantic wedding decor? Buying is the way to go. But be prepared for the upfront cost and logistics involved.
The Case for Renting Wedding Decor: Cost-Effective and Stress-Free
Renting wedding decor is often a go-to choice for couples who want to save money while still achieving a stunning look. But the benefits go beyond just the budget. In fact, some of the best wedding experiences I’ve witnessed were with couples who made renting their primary option. Here’s why:
Why Renting Wedding Decorations Can Save You Money
I remember working with a couple from Eltham who had a beautiful rustic-themed wedding. They wanted antique-looking chairs, gorgeous tableware, and intricate floral arrangements, but their budget didn’t stretch far enough to buy everything. We worked with a local rental company that offered exactly what they were looking for — high-quality vintage chairs and centrepieces that gave the wedding a timeless feel.
The best part? They only paid a fraction of what it would have cost to buy those pieces. Renting for an event like a wedding often costs around 25% of the retail price of items, making it a significant cost-saver, especially for larger events. Plus, the more specialised the item (like intricate wedding aisle decorations or oversized floral arrangements), the more you save by renting.
Renting for Convenience: The Ultimate Time-Saver
One of the biggest advantages of renting wedding decor is the convenience it brings. As I’ve seen time and time again, planning a wedding can feel like a full-time job. From scheduling fittings to meeting with vendors, the last thing you want to worry about is whether your table decorations will arrive on time or if you’re going to have to scramble to set everything up yourself.
When you rent, the rental company takes care of the logistics. From delivering your decor to setting it up and cleaning up after the event, they’ve got it covered. This means you get to focus on other parts of your day without the extra stress.
It’s not just a time-saver; it’s a sanity-saver too. I had a client who rented a beautiful wedding backdrop for their ceremony at a local Melbourne venue. They didn’t have to worry about how to transport it or put it up. The rental company handled all of that, ensuring everything was ready for the big moment.
Eco-Friendly Weddings: The Sustainable Choice of Renting
Here’s something a lot of couples don’t think about: renting wedding decor is actually better for the environment. The wedding industry, as glamorous as it is, generates a lot of waste. However, by renting items, you’re promoting the reuse of beautiful pieces that have already been used by others.
For instance, renting vintage wedding decorations can be a sustainable choice, as these items are often reused multiple times by different couples. In fact, I’ve seen decor pieces that have been saved from the landfill and given new life for someone else’s wedding. It’s one of the reasons I often recommend looking into vintage or eco-friendly rental companies. It’s a small step, but it adds up, and you can feel good knowing you’re reducing waste.
Flexibility and Variety: How Rentals Provide More Choice
What I’ve always loved about renting wedding decor is the variety it provides. When you rent, you’re not limited to what’s sitting in your garage or what you can afford to buy. Rental companies offer everything from rustic wedding decorations to elegant, modern wedding decor.
Say you’ve got your heart set on a vintage-themed wedding, but can’t find the right vintage chairs to buy. Instead of compromising, renting allows you to access a whole range of styles and designs — you can easily mix and match pieces to create a look that’s uniquely yours.
The Drawbacks of Renting Wedding Decorations: What to Consider
While renting wedding decor offers several benefits, it’s important to understand the potential downsides too. In my experience, not every couple is 100% happy with their decision to rent, so it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully.
The Limited Customisation of Rental Decor
When you rent your wedding decor, you’re generally working with what’s available in the rental company’s inventory. For many couples, this isn’t a problem — but for others, it can be a dealbreaker. I’ve had clients who had very specific ideas in mind for their wedding decor, such as a custom-designed wedding centrepiece or a particular colour of table runners to match their theme.
For example, a couple I worked with wanted an exact shade of blush pink for their wedding reception tablecloths, but the rental company only had a slightly different shade. While the rental was beautiful, it wasn’t quite what they had envisioned. If you’re someone who’s set on particular details, renting might feel a bit limiting.
Rental Costs Can Add Up: What to Watch Out For
As much as renting can save money on your overall wedding decor, it’s important to keep in mind that costs can quickly add up. While the rental of individual items might seem affordable, the more you rent, the more those costs start to stack up. I’ve had couples who rented large furniture pieces, intricate floral arrangements, and even custom lighting — and before they knew it, their rental bill was creeping up to the same price they would’ve paid to purchase some of the items outright.
For instance, the rental cost for a wedding backdrop, chair covers, and a few dozen tableware items may initially seem manageable, but don’t forget about potential add-ons. Extra charges for delivery, setup, cleaning fees, and even damage deposits can make rental fees much higher than anticipated. Always make sure you fully understand the cost structure, including any hidden fees, before finalising your rental agreement.
Availability Challenges: Popular Items May Be Booked
Here’s something you might not have thought about: availability. When you’re renting decor, especially for a wedding, you’re not the only couple looking to use those items. If you’re planning a wedding during peak season, like spring or summer in Melbourne, you could face the frustration of finding that the items you really wanted are already booked.
A client I worked with had her heart set on a vintage flower arch for her ceremony, but had waited too long to place the order. When she finally called, it was already unavailable. She had to scramble to find a similar piece, which added stress to an already busy time.
The lesson here? Always book your decor early, especially if you’re eyeing those trendy or in-demand items. Otherwise, you risk settling for something that doesn’t quite fit your vision.
Minimum Orders or Possibility of Damage
Another downside to renting is the potential for minimum order requirements. If you’re having a smaller wedding, the idea of renting an entire set of luxury glassware or 100 chairs may not make sense. But some rental companies may require a minimum order, meaning you’ll be forced to pay for more items than you actually need.
And let’s not forget about the possibility of damage. It’s a rare scenario, but it’s happened. I’ve seen couples get charged for damage or missing items after their wedding, which can be frustrating when you’re in the middle of enjoying your honeymoon. Rental companies often have strict damage policies, so make sure to carefully inspect your items upon delivery and, if anything looks damaged, report it immediately.
The Case for Buying Wedding Decor: Personalisation and Keepsake Value
While renting is an attractive option for many couples, buying wedding decor is worth considering for those looking for lasting value and full control over their aesthetic. I’ve worked with numerous couples who chose to buy their decor, and in many cases, it turned out to be the perfect choice. Let’s take a look at why buying might be right for you.
Why Buying Offers More Control Over Your Wedding Decor
One of the major advantages of buying your wedding decor is that you have complete control over the design. If you’ve got a particular vision in mind for your wedding decor — whether it’s a modern wedding with minimalist touches or a vintage wedding with intricate lace and candles — buying ensures that you’ll have exactly what you want.
When my partner and I got married, we decided to buy a vintage mirror for our ceremony signage. It was custom-made to match our theme, and I’ll always remember how perfect it looked in our venue. It wasn’t something we could have rented, and the mirror now serves as a beautiful keepsake in our home.
Keepsakes and Long-Term Value of Wedding Decorations
Another reason to buy is the keepsake value. After the wedding is over, you’ll likely find yourself looking at the decor you spent so much time curating and thinking about what to do with it. The good news is that when you buy, you own it, and many items can be repurposed in your home or saved for future celebrations.
Take your wedding bouquet, for example. Many couples now choose to have their flowers preserved after the wedding, turning them into beautiful keepsakes. Another example is custom wedding signage or table decorations — these can easily be reused for anniversaries or even gifted to loved ones. It’s these small, sentimental pieces that make buying a great choice.
The Potential for Long-Term Savings with Purchased Decor
If you’re someone who hosts parties, showers, or other events, buying wedding decor can be a great investment in the long run. I know couples who have reused their wedding decor for other events like baby showers, birthdays, or even family gatherings. This makes the initial cost of purchasing decor feel like less of a hit because it continues to serve you well beyond the wedding day.
I’ve even had clients who made money by reselling their wedding decor. Items like vintage frames, special event furniture, or custom signs can fetch a decent price when resold, especially on local marketplace groups. This is a great way to recoup part of your investment after your wedding is over.
The Downsides of Buying Wedding Decorations: What You Need to Know
While buying wedding decor can certainly have its advantages, there are also some challenges. Let’s take a look at what you need to be prepared for if you decide to purchase your decor.
High Upfront Costs of Purchasing Wedding Decor
One of the most obvious disadvantages of buying is the higher upfront cost. Depending on the items you’re looking to purchase, especially custom, high-end pieces, the price can quickly add up.
For example, if you’re buying high-quality table settings, a luxury backdrop, or a professional floral arrangement, you’re going to be paying more than you would if you rented them. This is something I’ve had to remind clients of in the past. While the long-term benefits of buying might outweigh the initial costs, it can be a tough pill to swallow if you’re working with a tight budget.
Storage and Logistics: Managing Your Purchased Items
Another challenge is storage. After your wedding, you’ll need somewhere to keep your decor items until you figure out what to do with them. This can be a headache, especially for larger pieces like furniture or backdrops. If you don’t have the space, you might have to pay for additional storage, which is an added expense you might not have planned for.
One of my clients had to rent a storage unit for their decor until they could resell it — this was an added expense they hadn’t initially factored into their wedding budget.
Reselling Wedding Items: The Time and Effort Involved
The option to resell your wedding decor after the big day is great, but it does take time. You’ll need to take photos, write listings, and coordinate with potential buyers, all of which can be more time-consuming than you might expect. Plus, depending on how much you paid for the items, they might not sell for as much as you hoped.
For example, some couples purchase beautiful wedding furniture or elaborate centrepieces but struggle to get a good price for them when they go to resell. Items might lose value over time, or you might not find buyers as quickly as you anticipated.
The Balanced Approach: Renting and Buying Wedding Decor for the Best of Both Worlds
Many couples find that the best option for their wedding decor is a hybrid approach — renting some items and buying others. This balanced approach allows you to reap the benefits of both options, saving money while still creating a unique and personal atmosphere. Here’s how you can make the most of both renting and buying to create a wedding that’s perfectly tailored to your vision.
How to Combine Renting and Buying for Your Wedding
In my experience, this hybrid approach works wonders for most couples. When you rent, you’re able to get access to those high-cost, large-scale items like furniture, lighting, and large floral arrangements. These pieces can easily be rented at a fraction of the cost of buying, and they’re often only used for a short time.
At the same time, you can invest in personal items that will have lasting value. Items like a personalised wedding sign, a keepsake picture frame, or a custom-built wedding backdrop will be meaningful to you long after the event. This balance ensures you’re not overspending, while also allowing you to preserve the more meaningful pieces from your wedding.
For example, one couple I worked with chose to rent the majority of their decor — things like tables, chairs, and extravagant floral arrangements. But they bought custom-made signage with their names and wedding date, as well as unique centrepieces that matched their theme. These purchases served as great keepsakes and helped make their wedding feel even more personal.
Budgeting Smartly: How a Hybrid Approach Can Save You Money
A big advantage of this balanced approach is the ability to stick to your budget while achieving your ideal aesthetic. By renting larger or functional items and focusing your spending on the pieces that matter most to you, you can manage your budget efficiently.
Consider this: renting a luxury chair or an intricate floral arrangement might cost you a few hundred dollars, but buying a unique wedding guestbook or a personalised cake stand might only cost you a fraction of that. You can carefully allocate your spending to the areas that matter most, ensuring that your decor reflects your style without busting your budget.
Additionally, buying secondhand items or shopping for deals on marketplaces can make the purchasing side of things even more affordable. If you’re willing to shop around, you might be able to buy quality decor that’s already been used for another wedding — and at a fraction of the price.
Tips for Managing Wedding Rentals: A Guide to a Smooth Process
If you decide to rent some of your wedding decor, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure the process goes smoothly. Based on my experience working with rental companies, here are some tips to help you manage your rentals without any hassle.
How to Avoid Common Pitfalls with Wedding Rentals
- Book Early: Rental companies, especially those that offer popular items, can book up quickly. This is especially true during peak wedding seasons. Make sure you secure your decor as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
- Research Companies: Look into local rental companies and check reviews. If possible, visit showrooms to see the items in person. That way, you can make sure the items meet your expectations before committing.
- Compare Pricing and Packages: Don’t just settle for the first rental company you find. Get quotes from multiple companies, compare prices, and make sure you understand exactly what is included in each package.
How to Coordinate Wedding Rentals with Your Venue
When renting decor, it’s essential to coordinate everything with your venue. Some venues have strict rules about what’s allowed, including restrictions on things like candles or certain types of furniture. Always check with your venue to see if there are any limitations before booking your rentals.
Additionally, make sure that the timing for delivery and pickup works smoothly with your venue’s schedule. The last thing you want is for your rental items to show up too early, or worse, too late.
Inspect Your Items Upon Delivery
Upon delivery, always inspect your rental items to ensure they meet your expectations. Check for any damage, and make sure everything is as you agreed upon. If there’s an issue, contact the rental company right away to resolve it.
Have a Backup Plan
Things don’t always go according to plan, so it’s always smart to have a backup plan. For example, if you’re planning an outdoor wedding and renting decor like large floral arrangements or lighting, make sure you have a contingency plan in case of bad weather. Be prepared to switch to an indoor setup if necessary.
Making the Right Decision for Your Wedding Decor
In the end, the decision to rent or buy wedding decorations depends on your personal preferences, budget, and vision for your day. Both renting and buying have their own unique advantages and drawbacks, but many couples find the best solution lies somewhere in between.
Renting allows you to save money and have access to high-quality items without the stress of ownership. On the other hand, buying wedding decor ensures you have full control over the items and offers the potential for keepsakes and long-term value.
By combining both options, you can create a beautiful, cost-effective, and personal wedding that reflects your unique style. Whether you choose to rent, buy, or do a bit of both, the most important thing is that you make decisions that work for your vision and your budget.
Let’s Get Straight to the Point
Choosing between renting or buying wedding decor comes down to your budget, vision, and long-term plans. Renting is cost-effective, saves time, and is eco-friendly, making it perfect for high-cost or one-time-use items. However, it can limit customisation and add up to hidden fees. Buying offers full control over your decor and provides keepsakes, but comes with higher upfront costs and storage challenges. A hybrid approach — renting large items and buying personal ones — often works best for most couples, ensuring a balance of cost, style, and functionality.
