10 Easy Wedding Décor Ideas That Make Big Statements

These small additions will have maximum impact.

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Photo: Elizabeth Messina Photography

When planning a wedding, it's sometimes the smallest detail that makes the biggest impact on your guests. At the end of the day, the majority of your focus (and budget!) doesn't need to revolve around spending on lavish flowers or fancy food-it's more important to ensure that your friends and family are comfortable and content. Here, celebrity wedding planner Stefanie Cove shares a few easy décor additions that will impress your guests, without fail.

Unique Flatware

Swap out traditional silver or pewter utensils for unique metal cutlery that no one will see coming. "It's a small touch that guests will notice," explains Cove. "I love the look of gold flatware, and another favorite of mine is black matte."

Candles

Chunky candles, taper candles, black candles, heaps of candles-the more the better. Try using richly-colored candles in dark tones (like eggplant!) to mix things up a bit, adds Cove.

Pops of Color

"Pops of color within a mostly neutral palette can make a huge difference," says Cove, who recommends jazzing up a greenery-focused floral palette with bursts of bright jewel tones.

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Mallory Sparkles

Balloons

Consider large metallic balloon letters in silver, gold, or copper, suggests Cove. They instantly transform any space into a celebration-which makes them perfect adds to the bridal suite on the morning of the wedding.

Fresh Place Settings

Adding something as simple as a sprig of rosemary to each guests' place setting is another detail that will make a splash, explains Cove. For more of a splurge, try dinner plate dahlias or even a baby fern. Planning a cold-weather party? Consider winter motifs, like pinecones or tiny pine branches, instead.

Fruit

For a more organic and natural setting, add fruit into the mix-this is especially effective in centerpieces, advises Cove: "Experiment with citrus if you're going for a Tuscan vibe, or cherries for a more playful summer afternoon." For autumnal fêtes, "place handpicked figs down the center of a long dining table mixed with florals and votives."

Guest Flower Crowns

These fresh headpieces aren't just for the wedding party. "It's a fun surprise for the guests, too!" she says. "They can wear them throughout the evening-plus, they make for a great photo opp!" Place the crowns at each attendees' place setting or enlist a helper to pass them 'round post-ceremony.

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Christina Richards Weddings

String Lights

If you're planning on partying under the stars, you'll want to set the mood (and light the way!) in that outdoor space. According to Cove, that's where string lights come in. "They're not expensive and add a touch of romance to the event," she says. "If you want to go a step further, try Edison bulbs." Pro tip: Consider dimmable bulbs, so you can adjust the lighting and ambience throughout the evening.

Juxtaposition

Adding something where it doesn't seem to belong is a surefire way to create a moment of visual intrigue. "One of my favorite elements from a past wedding was adding a black piano in the middle of a green field, which was covered in weeping willows. The stark contrast of the structured piano in the lush field was a show-stopper!" adds Cove.

Handwritten Notes

The wedding details that have the most impact are almost always the personal ones-which is why penning a handwritten note to each guest is sure to hit home, she explains. "Even if it's short and simple, this elegant touch on beautiful paper is sure to be noticed."

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