Planning a wedding can feel like juggling a million glittering ideas—all while trying to stay organized, sane, and on budget. I remember when I started planning my wedding, the number of decorative details quickly became overwhelming. From floral arrangements and lighting to seating charts and signage, there were way more decisions than I’d ever imagined.
Here’s the truth: no matter your wedding style—boho-chic, classic elegance, rustic outdoors, or somewhere in between—having a clear, categorized wedding decor checklist (and the right questions for your wedding venue designer) can save you hours of stress and indecision. That’s why I’ve created this Free Wedding Decor Checklist along with some important questions you should run by your venue designer.
You’ll find ideas and planning tools for your ceremony, cocktail hour, reception, and beyond.
🎉 Ceremony Decor Checklist
Your ceremony is the heart and soul of your big day, and the decorations should reflect that romance and magic. Let’s talk through the essentials:
- Altar Decor – Think arch or chuppah, floral installations, greenery, candles, or draping fabric.
- Aisle Markers – Small floral arrangements, lanterns, or bows at each row of chairs.
- Aisle Runner – A customized or classic runner to walk down the aisle in style.
- Welcome Sign – Beautiful signage with your names, date, and a sweet message.
- Vow Books – Handwritten, personalized vow booklets are the perfect keepsake.
🍹 Cocktail Hour Decor Checklist
This transitional time between ceremony and reception is perfect for casual and creative details:
- Bar Sign – Highlight your signature cocktails or favorite drinks.
- Lawn Games – Cornhole, croquet, jumbo Jenga—get guests mingling and smiling.
- Lounge Area – High-top tables, cozy chairs, or rustic benches give guests a comfy spot to relax.
🎊 Reception Decor Checklist
Your reception is where your vision comes to life in full force. Use this wedding decor checklist for reception to keep track:
- Bathroom Baskets – Stock the restrooms with mini essentials (mints, band-aids, floss).
- Wedding Cake & Topper – Showcase your cake with flowers, candles, or a stunning stand.
- Wedding Card Box – A secured and cute place for guests to drop off cards.
- Wedding Lighting – Uplights, pinspots, candlelight, string lights, chandeliers—mix to match your vibe.
- Wedding Menu Sign – Especially helpful for buffets or dietary accommodations.
- Seating Chart & Place Cards – Keep guest flow smooth with table assignments and individual seat cards.
✨ General Decor Checklist
These general decorations make the venue truly yours and tie everything together beautifully.
- Centerpieces & Florals – Think beyond bouquets—add texture with candles, jars, dried elements, or paper lanterns.
- Table Linen & Runner – Patterns, textures, and unconventional flatware give your tables personality.
- Guest Book & Gift Table – Be sure it’s visible and fits your theme.
- Reception Lighting & Hanging Decor – Draping, twinkle lights, paper lanterns or hanging florals elevate the entire experience.
- Photo Booth & Props – A Pinterest must-have that’s always fun for your guests.
💬 Questions to Ask Your Wedding Venue Designer
Before you finalize your decor plans, sit down with your wedding venue designer and ask these critical questions to avoid surprises:
- Venue Layout – How can we optimize the layout for guest flow and a smooth transition between events?
- Decor Budget – What’s realistic for our decor budget, and any tips for allocating funds wisely?
- Lighting Needs – What lighting equipment is included, and what should we rent or bring in?
- Special Requests – Can we bring our own rentals, and are there limits on hanging items or candles?
- Vendor Recommendations – Do you have trusted florists, lighting techs, or furniture rental companies?
Final Thoughts: Your Wedding Decor Planning Guide
Your wedding day is about celebrating love—but let’s be real, the decor is what brings your personality and style to life. With this ultimate wedding decor checklist, you’ll feel more confident, stay organized, and avoid forgetting the little (but oh-so-important) details.
Whether you’re working with a seasoned wedding venue designer or DIY-ing with help from your bridal crew, this guide will be your new visual best friend. Remember to print this wedding decor checklist template and bring it to venue walk-throughs and vendor meetings. And most importantly, breathe... this is going to be gorgeous. 🥂
