



Planning a special event at The Hidden Abbey? Whether it’s a wedding, shower, anniversary party, or any other celebration, creating a beautiful atmosphere doesn’t have to break the bank. With a bit of creativity and some DIY spirit, you can design stunning décor that will wow all your guests while keeping your costs down. We are here to help you get started with our top 10 DIY décor ideas that are both budget-friendly and perfect for enhancing the charm of The Hidden Abbey.
1. Elegant Centerpieces with a Personal Touch
Centerpieces are the focal point of your guest tables, and you can create stunning ones without splurging. Consider using mason jars, vintage vases, or bud vases filled with fresh or faux flowers. Add personal touches like small photo frames with the guest of honor(s) pictures that feature meaningful moments. And don’t forget—The Hidden Abbey has a décor closet stocked with greenery garlands, 3-tiered hurricane vases, bud vases, and more. Renting from our collection can save you money and make your centerpieces truly stand out.


2. DIY Backdrops for Stunning Photo Ops
Create a memorable photo backdrop that reflects the theme of your event. One of the easiest and more affordable options is to use a fabric curtain with greenery or fairy lights. Or you can use our doors on our stage in the Sanctury with balloons, flowers, or drapes. Another great spot for a backdrop is the foyer areas using our greenery or flower wall. A backdrop not only serves as the perfect spot for photos, but also adds a beautiful visual element to your event.

3. Food Setup with Creative Displays
Your food setup can be as much a part of the décor as the food itself. Using wooden crates, tiered stands, and/or vintage dishes to create an inviting and stylish display. Small chalkboards or small easels with handwritten or printed signs that match the invitations add a personal touch to help the guests with the culinary offerings. For a whimsical touch, consider incorporating seasonal fruit, flowers, or greenery into your setup.

4. Balloon Arches on a Budget
Balloon arches are a very trendy and eye-catching addition to any event. They are surprisingly easy to make on a budget. All you need is a mix of balloons in your chosen color scheme, a balloon pump, and some fishing line or a ballon strip which is included in most kits bought online. Attaching balloons of varying sizes create a full and cascading effect. Consider adding some faux greenery or flowers for extra flair. These arches are perfect for entryways, photo backdrops, or framing a cake table.
5. Display Tables with Purpose
Display tables can serve as a focal point at your event, whether they are showcasing your desserts, gifts, or guests favors. Start with a simple tablecloth and build up with either layers of fabrics, crates, or risers to add height and dimension. To decorate, you can use candles within a container, flowers, or thematic items such as books, lanterns, or even vintage suitcases. The key is to keep a cohesive look with your overall décor theme while making it visually appealing.
6. Handcrafted Signage
Adding personalized signs, such as a welcome sign, can add a warm touch to your event. Using a chalkboard, reclaimed wood, or mirrors as the base, and write, stencil, or add a vinyl decal to share meaningful quotes or provide information. Signs can be placed at the entrance, around the food setup, or at a specific station.


7. Creative Table Number Displays
Table numbers are a necessity for large events, but they can also be a great opportunity to get creative with your décor. Some things to consider for table numbers are picture frames, small potted plants, or even wine bottles with painted numbers painted or attached to them. Here at The Hidden Abbey, we have a few options to choose from, like wooden blocks, tall wooden numbers, and even acrylic table numbers that can be placed within the flowers or other décor. This adds a personal touch and ensures that every table is both functional and beautiful.


8. DIY Floral Arrangements
Floral arrangements don’t have to cost a lot if you’re willing to get a little hands-on. You can purchase flowers in bulk from your local market or even pick wildflowers and arrange them in your own containers. You can use unconventional items like teapots, baskets, hollowed out books as vases, or even cute little baby shoes that can then be given to mommy-to-be for her new bundle of joy like shown in the picture. A modern twist, you can mix in greenery or succulents, which are not only trendy but also more affordable than flowers.
9. Decorative Table Runners
Table runners can add a pop of color to your tablescape and can tie together your event theme. You can make runners out of fabric, burlap, or even paper, depending on your theme. For a rustic look, use lace over burlap, or for a more elegant event, opt for satin, sequins, or colored cheesecloth.
10. Themed Place Settings
Place settings can offer a wonderful opportunity to get creative. You can use placemats in the color of your theme or just set up each place setting with the plate, utensils, and napkins. For a more elegant affair, use cloth napkins folded in intricate shapes and an added sprig of greenery. This personal touch will make each guest feel special and add a layer of style to your event.
Conclusion
With these top 10 DIY décor ideas, you can create a stunning, budget-friendly event at The Hidden Abbey that your guests will rave about. Remember, it’s all about getting creative and adding personal touches that reflect your style and theme. And don’t forget to take advantage of our décor closet, where you can rent beautiful pieces like arches, lanterns, and more to enhance your event without overspending. If you are planning a wedding, shower, or any other celebration, these DIY items will help make your event both beautiful and memorable without stretching your budget. Happy crafting, and here’s to a fabulous event!
Want to host an event at The Hidden Abbey check out our pricing for 5 Hour Rentals or Weddings!


The Hidden Abbey Event Center is a locally owned and operated business. We sincerely hope to encourage couples to learn more about planning a wedding locally. We want to give a special thanks to some amazing wedding venues across the United States who inspire us and help support our venue. We are also thrilled to support other wedding venue owners from around the country with a shout out in each of our blogs. You can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.

