Budget-Friendly Event Decoration Ideas: How to Save on Decor
Decorating an auction on a modest budget requires creativity, strategic planning, and a willingness to repurpose and DIY. If decorating is not your cup of tea (it was not my strong suit), ask the members on your team if they would be interested in leading this element of the auction. Every year I had someone that loved decorating and was simply fabulous! Here are some ideas to help you create an appealing and engaging auction atmosphere without breaking the bank:
Theme & Color Scheme: Choose a simple yet impactful theme and color scheme. This will help tie everything together and make your decorations look intentional.
DIY Decorations: Create your own decorations using inexpensive materials. Consider paper crafts, fabric scraps, and repurposed items. For example, you can make paper garlands, fabric bunting, or centerpieces using recycled glass jars.
Pro tip: If this is an auction to benefit a school, you can personalize the auction by including items made by the kids. You can hang classroom art projects, invite the kids to make the centerpieces aligned with the auction theme, the kids can make the place cards, or other little decorations. The kids' involvement in the details not only helps you with the decorating, but it is also a beautiful way to personalize that event, reminding the guests why they are there in the first place.
Auction Item Displays: Use tables, crates, and simple shelves to display auction items attractively. Elevate items with different levels to add visual interest.
Pro tip: Since we were on a super tight budget, we used colorful butcher paper to cover the folding tables for the auction items. It was simple, cheap and it worked well.
Balloons: Balloons are affordable and can make a big impact. Choose colors that match your theme, and use them sparingly for a classy look.
Tablecloths & Linens: Rent or purchase affordable tablecloths and linens that match your color scheme. This can instantly elevate the overall look of the event. And if you don't think you will need them for the following year, you can sell them after the event is done to make a bit of money back.
Lighting: Good lighting can transform the atmosphere. Use string lights, fairy lights, or inexpensive lamps to create a warm and inviting ambiance.
Backdrop or Photo Area: Set up a backdrop with your event logo or theme-related graphics. This can serve as a photo area for attendees, encouraging them to share their experience on social media.
Natural Elements: Incorporate natural elements like potted plants, flowers, or branches. These add a touch of elegance and can be sourced inexpensively.
Pro tip: Ask your local garden store if you can borrow flowers/ plants for your event in exchange for store promotion. This was a game changer for our garden party. There were flowers and plants everywhere and we didn't have to pay for any of it!
Thrift Store Finds: Visit thrift stores for unique and affordable decor items. You might find vintage frames, vases, and other decorative pieces that fit your theme. Or that you could easily spray paint.
DIY Signage: Create signage for different auction sections using chalkboards, foam boards, or repurposed wood. Handwritten signs can add a personal touch and you may just have someone in your community who is a talented artist.
Centerpieces: Craft simple centerpieces using candles, flowers, or even fruits like lemons or apples. Mason jars or tin cans can be turned into charming vases. Again, involve the kids when you are able to not only help, but add a personal touch to the design.
Music: Set the mood with background music that complements the atmosphere. You can create playlists using free music platforms.
Focus on Key Areas: Instead of trying to decorate the entire venue, focus your efforts on key areas like the entrance, registration table, and auction item displays.
Ask Around: People in your community or city may have exactly what you are looking for and may be willing to let you borrow it for the event. Connect with your local Facebook groups or community organizations to share your specific needs. You may be surprised with what people are willing to lend you.
Pro tip: Consider asking theater groups to borrow props or set pieces they are no longer using. We got lucky with our “Secret Garden” themed auction as our local high school had just wrapped a production of the Secret Garden. They let us borrow all of their vines and flowers at no cost.
The key to successful budget decorating is to keep things simple, cohesive, and aligned with your theme. Use your creativity to turn inexpensive materials into appealing decorations that enhance the overall auction experience. In this process, remember to stay focused on the goal - to put on a memorable event and to raise as much money as possible for your school.
