Should you rent wedding centerpieces… or purchase them new? If you’re wondering this question, you’ve come to the right place! With the rising cost of weddings and the need for budget-friendly options, couples are renting centerpieces and decor from arches to backdrops, arches, backdrops, and even flowers, in record numbers. In this blog post, we’ll answer an Ask Emmaline question from bride-to-be, Sara, as explore the pros and cons of renting wedding centerpieces for your event. The many benefits of renting these items may surprise you.
Sara writes,
“Hi Emmaline! Can I rent wedding centerpieces? Is it a good idea? And how much does it cost to rent wedding centerpieces? Thank you!”
Great questions, Sara! Let’s tackle this topic, one question at a time.
The Cost of Wedding Centerpieces
Depending on what style and size you want, the average cost to BUY a wedding centerpiece is anywhere from $100 to $350 each, especially if you want fresh flower arrangements. When you multiply this number by how many tables are at your reception, that cost can really skyrocket. For instance, a wedding with 15 tables (roughly 120 – 150 guests), expect to spend anywhere from $1,500 to $5,250, which is a huge portion of the wedding budget, and does not include table linens, glassware, place settings, menus, table numbers, etc. This is a large expense, especially for couples on a budget.
But you can’t skip centerpieces or your tables will be bare, and you don’t want to sacrifice style.
So, what is the next best thing?
The best alternative to buying is renting wedding centerpieces!
You can easily save hundreds of dollars when you RENT wedding centerpieces for $28 – $44+. Using my prior example, the cost for centerpieces for 15 tables equates to $420 to $660 when you rent them. That’s a massive savings of anywhere from $1,000 to $4,000.
Wouldn’t you rather use that money towards something else in your budget, or for your honeymoon? I know I would!
While affordability is the number one benefit, there are some pros and cons of renting vs. buying, so let’s discuss all the angles.
Pros and Cons of Renting Wedding Centerpieces
Advantages
There are several benefits of renting wedding centerpieces:
► Affordable: Save money. As we mentioned above, renting is more affordable than buying, as you pay a small fee to use then return the item(s).
► Convenient: Stress less. There’s little to no assembly required, rushing around at the last-minute, or arranging the centerpieces yourself. The convenience of renting means you won’t worry about flowers wilting, not arriving, or not being ready to go on time. You simply rent the centerpieces, place them, and return them. It’s so easy!
► Sustainable: Less waste. By borrowing your wedding centerpieces instead of buying them, you’re not contributing to more waste, making it a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative.
Disadvantages
Of course, there are some drawbacks of renting:
♦ Personalization: Since centerpieces you rent are not personalized, you may not get the exact style or look you’re craving that you can get when you purchase brand new.
♦ Quality: You rent the items close to the wedding date, so there isn’t a lot of time to see the quality first-hand prior to the big day. However, you do have the benefits of seeing reviews from real couples, so that’s a huge plus.
Which Is Better? My Personal and Professional Take
As a wedding planner, I do both, based on what clients want. I purchase new centerpieces AND I rent wedding centerpieces. Both options are great! But if I had to choose a preference, I like renting centerpieces when the couple is budget-conscious, wants less waste, and has no space for storage before or after the wedding.
The centerpieces look top-notch and always photograph so beautifully!
The first time I rented wedding decor, though, I was admittedly hesitant. I think it’s good to ask questions, since you only get one shot at a perfect wedding day!
Now that you’ve seen both sides, you’ll know by now if renting or buying is the best option for you. There is no right or wrong answer, as it depends on the style and type of centerpieces you’re looking to use (i.e. floral, rustic, modern, etc.) and how much you have to spend. If renting wedding centerpieces is right for you, it’s very important to only rent from reputable wedding companies. You don’t want your centerpieces to look cheap.
Therefore, after testing many out myself and figuring out what works and what doesn’t, here’s where I wholeheartedly recommend – and utilize their services myself:
• Centerpieces + Table Decor – Something Borrowed Blooms: They offer centerpieces and centerpiece stands, vases, and more for rent that are stylish, high-quality, yet affordable for use. Rent online and return with a prepaid shipping label. It’s so easy. View their available products here. (Save $30 off of $250+ with offer code EMMABRIDE at checkout for a limited time.)
and
• Large Ceremony and Reception Decor – RentMyWedding: If you’re looking to rent larger items, like backdrops or arches, backlighting and decor.
How to Rent Wedding Centerpieces
Rental companies are available online and locally in-person.
Some companies offer products you reserve, then pick up, setup, and return yourself. On the other hand, some wedding rental companies offer a service where they handle it all for you – even setup and take-down. When finding reputable rental companies and selecting the right centerpieces for your wedding vision, read reviews, check pricing, and read the fine print before you rent. It is also helpful to choose a vendor who has high accolades – and that professionals have partnered with in the past.
If you go the online route, you can visit Something Borrowed Blooms here and browse their inventory. They offer centerpieces in small, large, and extra large sizes, as well as centerpiece stands, votives, candle holders, lanterns, and more. I really like how the centerpieces arrive very nicely wrapped in boxes, so they’re ready to place on tables immediately. The vase is included, so no worry there!
Here are some examples so you can see for yourself.
Examples of Centerpieces
These centerpieces are for rent on their website (with pricing from $28+):
► Browse more here.
In this blog post, we covered the process of renting wedding centerpieces from top-notch rental companies that offer plenty of stylish options. By selecting centerpieces that tie into your wedding colors or theme, you’ll be able to customize and personalized rented centerpieces for less. And by renting, you’ll have money left over – with no centerpieces left to store after the big day. Renting wedding centerpieces is a budget-friendly and convenient option that I hope will stretch your budget even further. This affordable alternative to buying is something I wish was available when I planned my own wedding.
If you find this article helpful, consider sharing this with engaged family and friends to recommend renting flowers as a cost-saving alternative. In addition, consider renting your wedding centerpieces to make the wedding planning process a bit easier.
Many thanks to Sara for writing, and I hope this helps!
Happy Planning!
xo
Emma
centerpieceswedding rentals
Emma Arendoski
Emma is the CEO of Emmaline Bride, The Handmade Wedding Blog, published author, leading wedding expert, and wedding planner. Read her latest book: The Inspired Wedding. Wife, mother, coffee lover. Follow on Instagram and at Emmaline Baby for baby + kids inspiration.
