If you’re reading this, you’re probably a Wedding Designer or Stylist curious to know what you’re doing wrong. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. I see these wedding styling / decor mistakes ALL THE TIME. 🙂

Before I share the most common wedding decor mistakes I often see, there are four things you need to keep in mind when it comes to Event / Wedding Design:

1. Event or wedding decor should be beautiful but functional.
2. You need to consider the venue or location when choosing your wedding colours.
3. The wedding decor should reflect the host’s personality and style.
4. It is important to always put together a vision board to guide you.

With that said, here are the 5 most common wedding styling mistakes I see, and some recommendations on how to avoid or fix them.

1. Space Planning.

Before you start brainstorming design ideas for the wedding, it is important to see a blueprint of the space from the venue. If this isn’t available, simply grab a tape measure and measure the length and width of the space. Also measure the height if the space is enclosed. You want to think about the kind of event it is, how many guests the space can accommodate, how the venue will be used – and plan around this. That way, you’re sure to make the most of the space available and avoid selecting design props that are too big or too small for the event floor space.

2. Table Decor / Tablescapes.

One of the most common event and wedding styling mistakes I see is installing wrong height centerpieces. Keep in mind that, although the event should look beautiful, it is important that it is also practical and functional. When selecting centerpieces, keep floral arrangements and table accents under 14″ or over 20″ high so guests can see and have a conversation with each other across the table. Keep in mind that, though tall arrangements are a must have in high ceiling ballrooms, in low ceiling halls they can make the space feel cramped.

3. Poor Lighting.

Lighting is one of the most fundamental aspects of any event design, yet is often overlooked. When designing an event space, consider outsourcing the main lighting of the event space to experienced lighting technicians who have a good understanding of how to properly illuminate a space. Nothing screams LUCKLUSTRE like a poorly lit event. Create a warm, welcoming space by introducing layers of lighting that show off your tablescapes and other decor elements. Play around with par cans, bulbs and candles to create a well thought out ambiance that looks and feels luxe. Your guests and their Instagram audience will love you for it!

Whatever the affair, lighting helps to transport guests to a place of celebration, drama and elegance.

RUSSELL HOLT

4. Charger Plates.

When setting out decorative plates, always implement “the rule of thumb”. Select a table that has enough room for charger plates, as well as centerpieces and any other table decor. Your charger plates should always be at least half a thumb from the edge of the table.

5. The Focal Point.

Every room needs a focal point. This could be a well designed custom backdrop, the wedding cake, an elaborate ceiling treatment. Whichever you choose, always incorporate a feature that draws your guests’ eyes as soon as they step into the space. This is your opportunity to be creative. So make a statement with a feature that enhances the rest of your decor, creates visual interest and is memorable.

I hope you found value in this. If you’re looking to launch or grow your wedding planning and design career, you’ll find more about upcoming courses HERE.

Have a brilliant week ahead and stay topped up!

Your Event Planning BFF,

Gloria.