Welcome to the beautiful world of Vancouver weddings! I'm Leslie, the proud owner of Elle Weddings, and I've had the privilege of helping countless couples create their dream weddings right here in our stunning city. From the breathtaking mountain backdrops to the vibrant urban landscapes, Vancouver offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cosmopolitan flair. But planning a wedding in this diverse locale can bring up a myriad of questions. That's why I've put together this guide to answer the top FAQs for your Vancouver wedding. Whether you're a local or planning a destination wedding, I'm here to share my insights, tips, and expertise to ensure your special day is as magical and memorable as the city itself. Let's dive in! 🌸
How much does it cost to hire a wedding decorator in Vancouver?
The cost to hire a wedding decorator in Vancouver can vary widely based on several factors such as the complexity of the design, the number of guests, the size of the venue, the types of materials used, and the overall theme of the wedding. At Elle Weddings, we offer different packages to suit various budgets and needs. The average cost for flowers and decor is between $1800 and $4000 and it can go up depending on location access times for set-up and take-down.
For a more personalised and detailed quote, I'd love to chat with you about your specific vision and preferences. That way, we can tailor our services to create a magical experience that aligns with your budget. Feel free to reach out, and we can set up a time to discuss all the beautiful possibilities!
Do you need a Vancouver wedding decorator?
It's a great question, and one that many couples ponder. Having a wedding decorator isn't a necessity, but it can certainly add a special touch to your big day without all the stress of having to coordinate the set up details loading, logistics and any fires that need to be put out (lights don’t work, a table number is missing, short of candles, dirty linens, frame doesn’t stand on its own, etc).
Here's how I see it:
Time-Saver: Planning and decorating a wedding can be time-consuming. A decorator takes care of all the visual details, allowing you to focus on other aspects of the wedding.
Expertise: With a professional decorator like us at Elle Weddings, you're getting someone who knows how to translate your vision into reality. We have the experience and creativity to make your venue look the way you want it to.
Stress-Reduction: Let's face it, planning a wedding can be stressful! Having a decorator handle the aesthetics and all the logistics that come along with it can take a load off your shoulders and not require you to you to turn to your friends and family for help so that everyone can simply show up and enjoy the day.
Personalization: If you have specific ideas, themes, or cultural elements you want to include, a decorator can help you integrate those seamlessly.
Budget Considerations: If you're on a tight budget, you might choose to handle the decor yourself or with the help of friends and family. It's entirely doable but requires careful planning and execution.
In the end, the decision really depends on your preferences, budget, and how hands-on you want to be with the decor. If you'd like to explore what we can offer, I'm here to chat and help you make the best decision for your special day. Either way, your wedding will be beautiful because it's a celebration of your love! 💖 Feel free to reach out if you have any more questions or thoughts!
What does a wedding decorator do?
A Vancouver wedding decorator, like us at Elle Weddings, does more than just put up some flowers and lights. Here's a glimpse into what we do:
Consultation: We start by understanding your vision, style, and preferences. Whether it's enhancing what the venue already is and has.
Design Planning: We create a cohesive design plan that includes everything from colour schemes to draping, backdrops, lighting, floral arrangements, table settings, and more.
Coordination with Vendors: We work closely with other vendors like florists, caterers, lighting and special effects, and venue managers to ensure everything aligns perfectly with the theme. We work together based on the schedule provided so we aren’t stepping on each other’s toes.
On-Site Execution: On the big day, we're there to set up all the decor elements, making sure everything goes smoothly and return late at night to strike and complete take-down.
Troubleshooting: If any issues arise, we're on hand to fix them, so you don't have to worry about a thing.
Breakdown: After the celebration, we take care of breaking down the decor, so you can continue enjoying the night (whether you head back to the hotel/home, or to an after party!)
Is It Worth It?
The value of a wedding decorator really depends on what you're looking for in your wedding. If you want a professionally designed and executed theme that resonates with your personality, then a decorator can be a fantastic investment. It takes the stress out of planning and ensures that every detail is thoughtfully considered.
However, if you enjoy DIY projects and have a clear vision of what you want, you might prefer to handle the decor yourself.
At Elle Weddings, we're all about creating one-of-a-kind, elevated experiences that reflect each couple's unique style. If that sounds like something you'd love, I'm here to chat more about how we can make your wedding truly unforgettable. Feel free to reach out, and let's explore the possibilities together! 🥂
It's a common question, and to be straightforward, a Vancouver wedding planner provides planning services and coordination whereas a wedding decorator provides design and decorating services.
Wedding Planner's Role: A Vancouver wedding planner typically focuses on the logistics, timeline, vendor coordination, and overall flow of the wedding day. Some wedding planners might also offer design services, but it's not always their primary focus. They can help set up smaller items like your guestbook table, placing name cards or table numbers on the table but anything more and you’re putting more timing pressures on them. Depending on their other tasks, they may not be able to take a second look or double check details.
Wedding Decorators Role: A wedding decorator, like us at Elle Weddings, specialises in the visual aspects of the wedding. We create the design concept, choose the right decor elements, and execute the setup to make the venue look stunning.
Combining Both: Some couples choose to have both a Vancouver wedding planner and a decorator to ensure that every aspect of the wedding is handled by experts. The planner takes care of the logistics, while the decorator focuses on the aesthetics.
One-Stop Solution: At Elle Weddings, we offer full-service planning, including day-of coordination, rentals, and design. So, if you choose us, you'll have both planning and decorating covered in one package.
Budget Considerations: Your budget might also influence your decision. If you're working with a limited budget, you might choose a planner who also offers some basic decorating services or handle some of the decor yourself.
In the end, whether you need both a planner and a decorator depends on your specific needs, vision, and budget. If you'd like a seamless, stress-free experience with a cohesive and personalised design, having both might be the way to go.
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or want to discuss how we can tailor our services to fit your dream wedding in Vancouver. I'm here to help, and I can't wait to hear more about your special day!
How do I know if a Vancouver wedding decorator is a good fit?
Finding the right wedding decorator in Vancouver is a bit like finding the perfect dress – it needs to feel just right! Here's some friendly advice to help you find a decorator that's a perfect fit for your special day:
Understand Your Vision: Start by having a clear idea of what you want. Whether it's a specific theme, colour scheme, or overall vibe, knowing what you're looking for will help you find a decorator who can bring it to life.
Check Their Portfolio: Look at their previous work to see if their style resonates with you. At Elle Weddings, we're proud of our diverse portfolio that showcases our ability to create unique and stylish weddings.
Read Reviews: Check online reviews and testimonials from previous clients. Hearing first hand experiences can give you a good sense of their professionalism and creativity.
Set Up a Meeting: Schedule a consultation to discuss your ideas and see if you connect with them. You'll be working closely with your decorator, so it's essential to feel comfortable and understood.
Ask About Services: Make sure to ask about the specific services they offer and how they handle things like coordination with other vendors, setup, and breakdown.
Discuss Budget: Be upfront about your budget and ask for a detailed quote. A transparent conversation about costs ensures that there are no surprises later on.
Trust Your Gut: Sometimes, it's just a feeling. If you click with the decorator and feel excited about their ideas, that's a great sign!
Consider a One-Stop Solution: If you're looking for comprehensive planning and design, consider a company like Elle Weddings that offers both. It can simplify the process and create a more cohesive experience.
Remember, every wedding is unique, and the right decorator for you will be the one who understands your vision and can translate it into a beautiful reality. If you'd like to chat more about what we at Elle Weddings can offer, I'm here to answer any questions and help you make the best decision for your big day. Let's make it magical together! ✨ Feel free to reach out anytime!
What is wedding decor in Vancouver?
Wedding decor is like the magical touch that transforms a venue into a dreamy setting for your special day. It's all about creating an ambiance that reflects your personality, style, and love story. Here's a closer look at what wedding decor encompasses:
Colour Scheme: Choosing a cohesive colour palette that resonates with your theme and sets the mood for the celebration.
Floral Arrangements: From bouquets to centrepieces, flowers add beauty and fragrance, enhancing the romantic feel of the wedding.
Lighting: Whether it's twinkling fairy lights, elegant chandeliers, or soft candlelight, lighting creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Table Settings: This includes everything from tablecloths and napkins to glassware, cutlery, and place cards, all thoughtfully chosen to complement the theme.
Furniture and Decor Rentals: Selecting chairs, tables, lounge areas, and other furniture that fits the style of the wedding.
Signage and Stationery: Custom signs, menus, and programs that guide guests and add a personal touch.
Drapery and Textiles: Fabrics can be used to soften spaces, create backdrops, or add elegance to the overall design.
Personal Touches: Incorporating elements that reflect your hobbies, cultural background, or shared experiences as a couple makes the decor truly unique.
Outdoor Elements: If you're having an outdoor wedding, think about tents, wedding arch rentals, or even fire pits to enhance the setting.
Sustainability: Many couples are now considering eco-friendly decor options, like reusable items, locally-sourced flowers, and minimal waste practices.
At Elle Weddings, we love working with couples to create decor that tells their story. Whether it's a luxurious celebration or a rustic and vintage occasion, we're all about translating our clients' ideas, style, and vision into beautifully conceived and memorable weddings.
If you're planning a wedding in Vancouver and want to explore decor ideas, I'm here to chat and help you create a day that's as beautiful and unique as your love. Feel free to reach out, and let's get started! 🌷
What needs to be decorated for my wedding?
Decorating for a wedding is like painting a beautiful picture, and there are several key areas that you might consider adding your personal touch to. Here's a rundown of what you might want to decorate for your big day:
Ceremony Space:
Altar/Wedding Arch Rental: Where you'll exchange vows; it's often the focal point.
Aisle: Runners, flowers, candles, lanterns can guide your walk down the aisle.
Chairs/Pews: Simple sashes or bows, flowers, or other accents.
Reception Venue:
Entrance: A welcoming area with signage (which we love producing), flowers, or thematic elements.
Tables: Centrepieces, table numbers, candles, place cards, stationary, and place settings.
Ceilings and walls: Drapery, backdrops, lights, or floral arrangements.
Dance Floor: Special lighting or a personalised dance floor and monogram
Cocktail Area:
Bar: Customised menus, themed decorations, or signature drinks.
Lounge: Comfortable seating with cozy pillows or accents, string lighting.
Outdoor Spaces:
Pathways: Guiding guests with lights, signs, or floral arrangements.
Gardens: Highlighting natural beauty with additional flowers or lights.
Special Touches:
Photo Booth: Props and backdrop for fun guest photos.
Favours Table: Displaying your thank-you gifts in a creative way.
Restrooms: A few flowers or amenities can add a thoughtful touch.
Transportation:
Cars/Limousines: Ribbons, flowers, or "Just Married" signs.
Personal Elements:
Bouquets & Boutonnieres: For the wedding party.
Cake Table: Highlighting your cake with a beautiful display with a cake stand, candles, flowers, or a cake topper.
Remember, these are just suggestions, and the decor should reflect your style, theme, and budget. At Elle Weddings, we work closely with our clients to understand their vision and create a personalised experience.
If you're planning a wedding in Vancouver and want to explore decor ideas together, I'm here to chat! Let's make your wedding a beautiful reflection of your love story. Feel free to reach out anytime!
Can I provide for my own decorations by using wedding rentals?
Absolutely, providing your own decorations through wedding decor rentals is a fantastic option, especially if you have a clear vision of what you want and enjoy being hands-on with the planning. Here's how you can make it work:
Explore Rental Options: Many rental companies offer a wide variety of items, from furniture and lighting to tableware and decorative accents. You can mix and match to create your desired look.
Create a Design Plan: Sketch out your ideas, choose a colour scheme, and think about how you want each space to feel. Pinterest and wedding blogs can be great sources of inspiration.
Consider Logistics: Think about delivery, setup, and breakdown. Some rental companies offer these services, while others might require you to handle them yourself.
Coordinate with the Venue: Make sure to check with your venue about any restrictions or requirements for bringing in outside decor.
Budget Wisely: Keep track of rental costs, delivery fees, and any potential damage deposits.
Add Personal Touches: Rentals can be combined with DIY elements or personal items to make the decor feel unique and special.
Consider Professional Help: If you love the idea of choosing rentals but feel overwhelmed by the setup, you might consider hiring a day-of coordinator or wedding decorator to assist with the execution.
At Elle Weddings, we also offer Vancouver decor rentals as part of our services. Whether you want to handle everything yourself or would like some assistance with design and setup, we're here to support you.
If you're planning a wedding in Vancouver and want to explore rental options or need some guidance, feel free to reach out. I'm here to chat and help you create a beautiful and personalised wedding that fits your style and budget. Let's make it a day to remember!
What’s the difference between a wedding decorator and a florist?
While both a wedding decorator and a florist contribute to the visual beauty of your wedding, they have distinct roles and responsibilities. Here's a friendly breakdown to help you understand the differences:
Vancouver Wedding Decorator:
Overall Design: A wedding decorator, like us at Elle Weddings, focuses on the entire visual concept of the wedding. This includes colour schemes, lighting, furniture, table settings, and more.
Coordination: We work with various vendors, including florists, to ensure that all visual elements are cohesive and aligned with your theme.
Execution: From designing the layout to setting up and breaking down the decor, a decorator handles all aspects of the visual presentation.
Personalization: We create a unique and personalised ambiance that reflects your style, personality, and love story.
Florist:
Floral Expertise: A florist specialises in flowers. They design and create all the floral arrangements, including bouquets, boutonnieres, centrepieces, and any other floral accents.
Freshness and Quality: They ensure that the flowers are fresh, vibrant, and of high quality, selecting blooms that match your colour scheme and theme.
Delivery and Setup: Florists typically handle the delivery and setup of the floral elements, making sure they look perfect on the day.
Consultation on Flowers: They can provide expert advice on flower choices, seasonal availability, and how to achieve the desired look within your budget.
In essence, a wedding decorator oversees the entire visual experience, while a florist focuses specifically on the floral components. Both roles are essential in creating a beautiful and harmonious setting for your celebration.
At Elle Weddings, we work closely with talented florists in Vancouver to ensure that the floral elements complement the overall design. If you're planning your wedding and want to explore how we can create a magical experience together, feel free to reach out. I'm here to chat and help you make your special day truly unforgettable! 🌸
Why should I hire a wedding decorator instead of DIY?
The decision to hire a wedding decorator or go the DIY route is a personal one and depends on various factors like your vision, budget, time, and comfort level with crafting and design.
Here's a friendly comparison to help you weigh the pros and cons:
Hiring a Wedding Decorator:
Professional Expertise: Decorators like us at Elle Weddings have the experience and creativity to translate your vision into reality, ensuring a cohesive and stylish look.
Time-Saving: Planning and executing wedding decor can be time-consuming. A decorator takes care of all the details, allowing you to focus on other aspects of the wedding.
Stress Reduction: Handling decor can be stressful, especially on the big day. A decorator manages everything, so you can relax and enjoy the celebration.
Access to Resources: Decorators often have access to exclusive Vancouver decor rentals, materials, and vendor relationships that might be challenging to source on your own.
On-Site Coordination: From setup to breakdown, a decorator is there to handle any last-minute adjustments or issues, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
Going the DIY Route:
Personal Touch: DIY allows you to infuse your personality and creativity into every detail, making the decor feel unique and special.
Budget-Friendly: Depending on the complexity, DIY can be a more budget-conscious option, especially if you have access to free or low-cost materials.
Fun and Fulfilling: If you enjoy crafting and designing, the DIY process can be a fun and rewarding experience.
Potential Challenges: DIY requires careful planning, time management, and execution. It can be overwhelming, especially if you're handling multiple aspects of the wedding.
Ultimately, the choice between hiring a decorator and DIY depends on what you value most and what feels right for your wedding. If you're considering a wedding in Vancouver and want to explore how Elle Weddings can help create a beautiful and stress-free experience, I'm here to chat. Whether you want full design services or just some assistance with specific elements, I'm excited to help make your wedding a reflection of your love story. Feel free to reach out, and let's make it magical together! ✨
What are some of the most popular rentals for weddings?
Wedding rentals in Vancouver are a great way to personalise your celebration and create the ambiance you desire without having to purchase everything outright and worrying about what to do with it all later (Sell? Storage?). Here's a list of some of the most popular decor rentals that couples often choose for their weddings:
Backdrops and draping: Our specialty! We love how draping can completely transform a space, no matter how small and how simple or dramatic.
Tables & Chairs: Though we do not rent these directly, we work with many vendors who do and are happy to connect you with them. There are various styles to match your theme, from harvest tables to crossback vineyard chairs and to elegant Chiavari or Louis chairs.
Linens & Tableware: Tablecloths, napkins, chargers, plates, glassware, and cutlery in different colours and styles.
Lighting: String lights that hang across the entire room, fairy and twinkle lights, chandeliers, lanterns, or uplighting to set the mood.
Tents & Canopies: For outdoor weddings, providing shelter and a beautiful framework for decor.
Dance Floors: Portable dance floors that can be customised to fit the space and theme. Vinyl floorwraps have been very trendy lately.
Archways & Altars: For the ceremony, available in various materials and designs.
Lounge Furniture: Sofas, armchairs, and coffee tables to create cosy seating areas.
Bars & Beverage Stations: Customizable bars for serving drinks, complete with accessories.
Decorative Accents: Items like vases, candles, mirrors, or vintage pieces to add character.
Sound & AV Equipment: Speakers, microphones, and projectors for speeches and entertainment.
Signage: Custom signs for directions, menus, or personal messages, welcome signs, seating charts.
Floral Containers: Unique vessels for floral arrangements to match the theme.
Sustainability Options: Eco-friendly tableware and decor for environmentally conscious couples.
At Elle Weddings, we offer a wide range of Vancouver decor rental options to suit different themes and budgets. Whether you're planning a luxurious celebration, a rustic and vintage occasion, or anything in between, we're here to help you find the perfect wedding rentals to bring your vision to life.
If you're planning a wedding in Vancouver and want to explore rental possibilities, feel free to reach out. I'm here to chat and help you create a beautiful and personalised experience for your special day. Let's make it unforgettable together! 🎉
How much of my budget should I set aside for my wedding decor?
Budgeting for wedding decor is an essential part of planning, and it can vary widely based on your preferences, the overall wedding budget, and the type of celebration you envision. Here's a general guideline to help you plan:
Typical Range: On average, couples might allocate anywhere from 10% to 20% of their total wedding budget to decor. This includes items like flowers, lighting, linens, decor rentals, and any special decorative accents.
Consider Your Priorities: If decor and ambiance are top priorities for you, you might choose to allocate a higher percentage. Conversely, if you're going for a more minimalist approach, you might spend less.
Break It Down: Consider breaking down the decor budget into specific categories, such as:
Get Quotes: Reach out to decorators, florists, and rental companies to get a better sense of costs in your area. At Elle Weddings, we offer personalised quotes based on your vision and budget.
DIY Options: If you're considering some DIY elements, factor in the cost of materials and any additional help you might need for setup.
Consider the Venue: Some venues might include certain decor elements, such as basic linens or lighting, so be sure to check what's included.
Think About the Overall Experience: Consider how decor fits into the overall experience you want to create. Striking a balance between decor and other aspects like food, entertainment, and photography is key.
Remember, these are general guidelines, and the most important thing is to create a budget that feels comfortable for you and aligns with your vision for the day.
If you're planning a wedding in Vancouver and want to explore decor options and budgeting with Elle Weddings, I'm here to chat. We can work together to create a beautiful and memorable experience that fits your budget and reflects your unique love story. Feel free to reach out, and let's make your dream wedding come to life!
Is it better to buy or rent my wedding decor?
The decision to buy or rent wedding decor is a common dilemma for couples, and there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Both options have their advantages and considerations, so let's explore them to help you make the best choice for your special day:
Renting Wedding Decor:
Variety: Rental companies often have a wide selection of styles and themes, allowing you to create a customised look without having to purchase everything.
Convenience:Vancouver decor rentals usually include delivery, setup, and breakdown, saving you time and effort.
Cost-Effective: Renting can be more budget-friendly, especially for items you'll only use once.
Space-Saving: No need to worry about storing or reselling items after the wedding.
Eco-Friendly: Renting can be a more sustainable option as items are reused.
Buying Wedding Decor:
Personalization: Buying allows you to choose or create specific items that you can keep as mementos or use in your home.
Resale Possibility: You may be able to resell some items after the wedding to recoup some costs.
DIY Opportunities: If you enjoy crafting, buying materials to create DIY decor can be a fun and personal touch.
Potential Costs: Some items might be more expensive to buy, and you'll also need to consider storage, setup, and breakdown.
Great for Smaller Items: Things like candles, picture frames, or small decorative accents might be more practical to buy.
A Combined Approach:
Mix of Both: Many couples opt for a combination of renting and buying. Rent larger items like furniture, lighting, and linens, and buy smaller, personalised pieces that you want to keep.
At Elle Weddings, we offer both rental options and assistance in sourcing specific items to buy, depending on your vision and needs.
If you're planning a wedding in Vancouver and want to explore the best approach for your decor, I'm here to chat and help you navigate the options. Together, we can create a beautiful and personalised experience that aligns with your budget, style, and desires. Feel free to reach out, and let's make your wedding truly unforgettable!
FEATURED WEDDINGS
LOVE NOTES
Leslie was organized, efficient, worked with what we wanted, easy to communicate with, and so lovely to work with. I wouldn't have wanted anyone else to plan our wedding! She is super knowledgeable about all of the best deals and vendors in the area and was able to create our dream vision with our budget. She took a lot of things off our plate with handling the vendors and everything on the special day making it stress free. On top of taking on all of these responsibilities, she was always so quick to respond. Leslie is the best and we will miss working with her!
Leslie helped to ensure our wedding day was amazing. She is attentive, responsive, flexible, and always smiling. Working with her was a pleasure and we'd highly recommend working with her. My husband and I were able to just enjoy the day while she took care of all the details on the day of, guiding us with a smile and always showing her caring attitude. As the day passed by me as a blur, I remember Leslie always busy working to make sure the details were perfect. Very grateful to have found her and for the work and love she put into our wedding. Thanks Leslie!
