This post shows you 43 Amazing Garden Party Decorations On A Budget.
There’s something so special about a garden party, the fresh air, good food, and the kind of laughter that makes your cheeks hurt.
But you know: when you start looking at decorations online, it’s easy to feel like you need a celebrity budget just to pull off something decent. Like fancy floral arches, designer table settings, and over-the-top balloon installations? Yeah, but no thanks for me.
You don’t need to. I’ve learned that you can throw a gorgeous garden party without spending a fortune.
Over the years, I’ve hosted plenty, some planned weeks ahead, others thrown together last minute with whatever I could find around the house. And guess what? The ones with the creative, low-cost decorations always got the most compliments! It’s not about how much you spend; it’s about knowing the right tricks.
That’s why I’m sharing 43 fabulous garden party decorations on a budget that are easy, affordable, and honestly, just as stunning as the pricey stuff.
Supposedly you’re celebrating something special or just want an excuse to gather your favorite people outdoors, these ideas will help you create a dreamy setup, without the hefty price tag.
Let’s get into it!
43 BEAUTIFUL GARDEN PARTY DECORATION ON A BUDGET
1. String Lights for a Magical Glow
Lighting sets the mood for any garden party, and string lights are one of the easiest ways to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re hosting a daytime brunch or an evening gathering, soft glowing lights instantly transform your space into something magical. They’re inexpensive, easy to install, and come in various styles, from classic fairy lights to vintage Edison bulbs.
Hanging them on tree branches, across fences, or over dining areas can give your space an enchanting feel. Solar-powered or battery-operated options make them even more budget-friendly, saving electricity costs while providing an elegant glow all night long.
2. DIY Flower Centerpieces with Grocery Store Blooms
Fresh flowers make any garden party look elegant, but purchasing large floral arrangements can be pricey. Instead of expensive bouquets, opt for budget-friendly blooms from the grocery store or farmer’s market. These flowers, when arranged creatively, can serve as beautiful yet inexpensive garden party decorations.
Using mason jars, tin cans, or repurposed glass bottles as vases adds charm without additional cost. Mixing seasonal flowers with wild greenery from your own yard creates a natural, effortless look.
3. Repurposed Fabric as Table Runners
Table decor plays a huge role in setting the tone for your party. While fancy table runners can be costly, repurposing fabric you already own is a budget-friendly alternative. Old scarves, lace curtains, or even colorful bed sheets can be cut into strips and layered to create a stylish table setting.
These DIY table runners add a personal touch to your garden party decorations while reducing costs. Opt for floral or pastel fabrics to complement the garden setting, or go for earthy tones for a rustic vibe.
4. Mason Jar Lanterns with Tea Lights
Lanterns add a cozy and romantic touch to any outdoor gathering, and mason jars make the perfect budget-friendly alternative. By simply placing tea lights inside mason jars, you create an easy, affordable way to illuminate your party space.
Arranging them along tables, pathways, or even hanging them from tree branches enhances the ambiance of your garden party decorations while keeping costs low. Using different jar sizes can add variation and visual interest to your lighting setup.
5. Handmade Paper Garlands
Garlands bring color and movement to a garden party, making the space feel festive and lively. Handmade paper garlands are an affordable way to achieve this without spending money on store-bought decorations.
Cutting colorful paper into different shapes like flowers, triangles, or circles—and stringing them together with twine creates a whimsical and cheerful effect. These simple garden party decorations can be hung from trees, draped along fences, or placed over dining tables to add a playful touch.
6. DIY Balloon Arch with Dollar Store Balloons
A balloon arch makes a striking focal point for any garden party, creating a festive atmosphere that welcomes guests. Buying pre-made arches can be expensive, but a DIY version using dollar store balloons can achieve the same stunning effect at a fraction of the price.
By tying balloons to a frame made from wire or a repurposed hula hoop, you can create a colorful, eye-catching piece. Mixing different balloon sizes and adding greenery or flowers enhances the design while keeping the garden party decorations affordable.
7. Wooden Crates for Rustic Display Stands
Wooden crates are a fantastic way to add height and texture to your garden party setup. They can be used to display food, drinks, or floral arrangements, giving your space a rustic yet stylish appeal.
Stacking crates at different heights creates a dynamic, layered effect. You can leave them in their natural wood finish for a vintage look or paint them in pastel shades to match your garden party decorations.
8. Vintage Frames as Decorative Signs
Old picture frames can be transformed into beautiful decorative signs for your garden party. Whether used for a welcome sign, drink menu, or seating guide, these frames bring elegance and charm to your setup without extra cost.
Adding chalkboard paper inside the frame or printing out a stylish sign at home can enhance your garden party decorations effortlessly. Thrift stores often have a variety of vintage frames that can be repainted or distressed to suit your theme.
9. Handmade Floral Hoops for Hanging Decor
Floral hoops are a trendy and stylish way to add a romantic touch to your garden party decorations. These can be made using embroidery hoops, hula hoops, or any circular frame wrapped with artificial flowers, greenery, or ribbon.
Hanging floral hoops above tables, on fences, or from tree branches creates an ethereal, dreamy aesthetic. Using soft pastels, white flowers, or lush green vines gives the hoops a sophisticated yet whimsical feel.
10. Upcycled Tin Cans as Cutlery Holders
Tin cans are often overlooked, but they make excellent decorative and functional elements for garden parties. Cleaning and decorating empty tin cans with burlap, twine, or lace can turn them into stylish cutlery holders, flower vases, or candle holders.
Grouping them together on tables not only enhances the rustic aesthetic but also serves as practical garden party decorations. For a coordinated look, painting them in pastel shades or adding floral embellishments can match the party’s theme.
11. DIY Chalkboard Menu Signs
A well-displayed menu adds a classy touch to any gathering, helping guests know what’s available while doubling as an elegant decoration. Instead of printing expensive menus, a DIY chalkboard menu sign is an affordable and stylish alternative.
Using an old picture frame, wooden board, or even a repurposed mirror, you can create a charming chalkboard menu with some chalk paint and a little creativity. Whether it’s propped on an easel or hung from a tree, this piece will enhance your garden party decorations while being completely reusable for future events.
12. Recycled Wine Bottles as Candle Holders
Empty wine bottles don’t have to go to waste they can be turned into stunning candle holders that add height and elegance to your garden party setup. They work especially well for evening events, creating a soft, romantic glow when lined up along tables or pathways.
For added charm, you can paint them, wrap them in twine, or insert fairy lights inside. If you’re using taper candles, melted wax dripping down the sides gives a rustic, vintage feel, making them an easy yet impressive garden party decoration that costs next to nothing.
13. Flower Petal Aisle for a Romantic Touch
Fresh flower petals can instantly elevate a garden party, but instead of splurging on pre-packaged petals, you can gather blooms from your own yard. Scattering petals along the pathway leading to the main seating area or food station adds a soft, romantic touch that feels luxurious yet is totally budget-friendly.
If fresh petals aren’t an option, using dried flowers or biodegradable confetti in floral tones achieves a similar effect. This natural and eco-friendly garden party decoration enhances the beauty of the space while keeping costs low.
14. Handmade Burlap Banners
Banners instantly make a space feel festive, and burlap is a fantastic material for creating rustic, budget-friendly signage. Whether it spells out “Welcome,” “Cheers,” or “Garden Party,” a handmade banner adds a personalized touch to your decor.
Cutting burlap into triangle shapes and stringing them together with twine creates a simple, rustic banner that can be reused for multiple occasions. You can stencil letters onto the burlap or leave it plain for a minimalist look, making it an effortless yet charming garden party decoration.
15. Upcycled Wooden Pallets
Low picnic-style tables are perfect for creating a cozy and intimate garden party setting, but purchasing new tables can be costly. Instead, upcycling wooden pallets into makeshift tables is a genius way to get the same look on a budget.
Stacking a couple of pallets and draping them with a fabric runner or lace cloth creates a stylish dining area. Adding floor cushions or blankets completes the setup, making this one of the most practical and affordable garden party decorations that also maximizes space.
16. Hanging Paper Lanterns for Soft Lighting
Paper lanterns bring a whimsical, fairytale-like feel to outdoor gatherings. They are lightweight, easy to hang, and incredibly affordable, making them perfect for a budget-friendly garden party.
Whether you opt for soft white lanterns for an elegant vibe or colorful ones for a playful theme, they instantly transform your space. Cluster them in different sizes or mix them with string lights to enhance the glow of your garden party decorations without overspending.
17. Edible Herb Centerpieces
Centerpieces don’t always have to be floral fresh herbs like rosemary, basil, and mint make for fragrant and beautiful table decorations. They’re a refreshing alternative to traditional flower arrangements and serve a dual purpose since guests can add fresh herbs to their drinks or food.
Small potted herbs placed in baskets, wooden crates, or mason jars create a rustic, natural aesthetic. These garden party decorations also make great take-home gifts for guests, ensuring that nothing goes to waste after the party.
18. Colorful Cloth Napkins for a Pop of Color
Instead of using disposable napkins that can look plain and uninspiring, cloth napkins add a touch of elegance to your table setting. They are reusable, sustainable, and can be made from scrap fabric or inexpensive cotton cloth.
Folding them in creative ways or tying them with twine and a sprig of rosemary gives them a polished look. This small yet impactful detail enhances your garden party decorations while keeping everything budget-friendly and eco-conscious.
19. Vintage Tea Cups as Planters
If you have old tea cups or can find some at thrift stores, they make charming mini planters for succulents or small flowers. These dainty, vintage-inspired decorations add a quaint and elegant touch to your tables or buffet area.
Mixing different cup styles and colors creates a whimsical, garden-fairy aesthetic that elevates your garden party decorations. They can also double as guest favors, allowing your friends to take home a little piece of your event.
20. DIY Ribbon Backdrops
A ribbon backdrop is a simple yet highly effective way to create a focal point for photos, food tables, or entryways. Instead of purchasing pre-made backdrops, you can make your own using ribbons, fabric strips, or even old bedsheets cut into long, flowing pieces.
Hanging ribbons from a tree branch, curtain rod, or wooden frame adds texture and movement to your garden party decorations. Choosing soft pastels for a romantic look or bold, bright colors for a fun, festive feel allows you to match the backdrop to your theme while staying within budget.
21. DIY Edible Centerpieces
Why not make your decorations functional, too? Edible centerpieces, such as fruit displays, herb bouquets, or vegetable arrangements, add natural beauty to your tables while doubling as tasty treats for guests.
Use a tiered fruit stand, hollow out pineapples as vases, or arrange fresh herbs in mason jars for a fragrant touch. This decoration idea reduces waste, saves money, and keeps your garden party fresh and inviting.
22. DIY Watering Can Floral Display
A vintage watering can overflowing with flowers makes a unique and eye-catching garden party decoration. Instead of investing in expensive floral arrangements, simply repurpose an old watering can and fill it with fresh blooms from your garden.
Position it as a centerpiece on tables, place it near the entrance, or use it as a focal point in your outdoor setup. This charming display not only adds a touch of farmhouse elegance but also keeps your decorations affordable and creative.
23. Hanging Glass Bottle Vases
An easy way to add floral beauty to your party space without spending too much is by turning old glass bottles into hanging vases. These delicate and stylish decorations bring height and movement to your setup, especially when placed near seating areas or dining tables.
Fill the bottles with single stems of flowers or greenery and hang them with twine from trees, pergolas, or even a simple wooden frame. This budget-friendly decoration gives a floating, dreamy effect to your garden party without requiring expensive floral arrangements.
24. DIY Painted Rock Place Cards
For a personalized and budget-friendly table setting, hand-painted rocks make unique place cards or decorative elements. This natural and rustic decor idea is easy to create and adds a thoughtful touch to your party.
Collect smooth stones from your garden or a nearby park, then paint guests’ names on them with acrylic paint or metallic markers. These stylish and eco-friendly place cards can also double as party favors for guests to take home.
25. DIY Flower Chandelier
If you want a show-stopping decoration that won’t break the bank, a DIY flower chandelier is the perfect addition to your garden party. Made using a hula hoop, faux flowers, and ribbons, this elegant hanging piece creates a stunning focal point above dining or seating areas.
Secure faux flowers, greenery, or even fresh blooms around the hoop, then suspend it from a tree or pergola. The movement of the hanging flowers in the breeze adds a touch of magic to your space, making this an unforgettable and budget-friendly decoration.
26. Upside-Down Hanging Flower Baskets
Flipping traditional flower baskets upside-down and suspending them from tree branches or pergolas adds a unique visual element to your garden party decorations while keeping costs low.
Use lightweight wire baskets, attach fresh or faux flowers to the base, and hang them at varying heights. For extra charm, weave in fairy lights or colorful ribbons. This simple yet creative idea gives the illusion of floating florals, making your garden party feel magical.
27. Floating Flower Bowls
For an elegant yet affordable decoration, floating flower bowls add a serene and luxurious touch to your garden party. All you need are shallow bowls, water, and a selection of fresh flowers.
Fill the bowls with water and place them on tables or pathways. Gently float flower heads like roses, daisies, or peonies on the surface. This budget-friendly decor idea creates a spa-like feel and enhances the beauty of your outdoor celebration.
28. Twinkle Light Mason Jar Centerpieces
If you’re aiming for a magical glow without the hassle of electrical setups, mason jar centerpieces filled with twinkle lights are a simple yet breathtaking solution. These glowing jars add a soft, intimate ambiance to your garden party decorations at minimal cost.
Simply place battery-operated fairy lights inside mason jars and scatter them across tables, pathways, or seating areas. You can also add decorative pebbles, flowers, or ribbons to customize the look. These centerpieces work beautifully for both daytime and nighttime gatherings.
29. Lace-Wrapped Candle Holders
Adding a touch of vintage charm to your garden party is easy with lace-wrapped candle holders. These delicate decorations give off a romantic glow when lit, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Simply wrap lace around glass jars or votives, secure it with glue, and place a candle inside. These elegant yet inexpensive decorations can be placed along tables, on shelves, or scattered around the garden to enhance the ambiance of your party.
30. Handwritten Calligraphy Place Cards
Personalized place settings make guests feel special, and handwritten calligraphy place cards are an affordable way to add elegance to your table decor. Instead of ordering expensive custom stationery, create your own using craft paper, leaves, or wooden slices.
Using a metallic marker or ink pen, write each guest’s name in stylish lettering. You can even add a small sprig of rosemary or lavender to each card for an extra decorative touch. This simple but thoughtful detail makes your garden party decorations feel sophisticated and intimate.
31. DIY Fabric-Covered Cushions
Adding cozy seating to your garden party doesn’t have to be expensive. By covering old cushions with vibrant fabric, you can create comfortable, stylish seating areas for guests without spending a fortune.
Look for discounted fabric at craft stores or repurpose old bedsheets to sew simple slipcovers. Scatter these colorful cushions on benches, chairs, or even the ground for a relaxed and inviting vibe. This small touch makes a big impact on the comfort and aesthetic of your outdoor event.
32. DIY Rope-Wrapped Planters
A creative way to elevate simple flower pots is by wrapping them with rope for a rustic, boho-inspired look. This easy DIY adds texture and charm to your garden party decorations while keeping things budget-friendly.
All you need is a hot glue gun, some twine or thick rope, and basic planters. Wrap the rope around the exterior, securing it as you go, and then place fresh or faux flowers inside. These decorative planters can be scattered around the party space or used as table centerpieces.
33. Vintage Ladder Display Stand
An old wooden ladder can be repurposed into a stunning display stand for flowers, candles, drinks, or even desserts. This charming, farmhouse-style decoration adds character to your setup without requiring any expensive purchases.
Lean the ladder against a wall or place it freestanding in the garden. Decorate the steps with small potted plants, fairy lights, mason jar candles, or framed signs. Not only does it create an eye-catching focal point, but it also serves as a practical way to showcase party elements.
34. DIY Mirror Wall for Outdoor Elegance
Hanging or leaning old mirrors against garden fences or trees reflects light beautifully and makes your party space feel larger and more luxurious. Thrift stores often have inexpensive mirrors that you can repurpose.
For a whimsical touch, arrange multiple mirrors in different shapes and sizes to create a vintage-inspired gallery wall effect. The reflections of greenery and fairy lights will make your garden party decorations look even more magical.
35. Floral Ice Bucket for a Chic Drink Station
Upgrade your drink station with a stunning floral ice bucket. This simple yet sophisticated idea turns a basic beverage cooler into a gorgeous decorative piece.
Freeze edible flowers or citrus slices inside ice blocks and place them in a clear container to chill bottles of wine, lemonade, or sparkling water. Not only does it keep drinks cold, but it also adds an elegant, colorful element to your party setup.
36. DIY Doily Table Runners for Vintage Charm
For a shabby-chic look, create a table runner using thrifted lace doilies. These delicate pieces, when stitched or glued together, form a beautiful vintage-inspired centerpiece for your garden party table.
Pair it with fresh flowers and candles to enhance the elegance without spending a lot. If you don’t have doilies, repurposing lace fabric or even using paper doilies can achieve a similar effect.
37. Hanging Macrame Plant Holders for a Boho Touch
If you want to add a boho-chic vibe to your garden party, hanging macrame plant holders filled with trailing greenery or flowers is a perfect low-cost decor idea.
You can make simple macrame hangers using rope or buy inexpensive ones online. Hang them from trees, pergolas, or shepherd’s hooks to create an inviting and stylish garden setting.
39. DIY Candlelit Pathway for a Magical Glow
Line your garden path with candles in glass jars or lanterns to guide guests with a soft, romantic glow. You can use LED candles for safety or real ones for a flickering effect.
For an extra charming touch, sprinkle flower petals along the path to make it feel like a fairy-tale walkway. This simple decoration instantly elevates your outdoor space.
38. Outdoor Tapestry Backdrop for a Cozy Lounge Area
Transform a blank fence, wall, or tree area into a stunning backdrop using a colorful tapestry or lightweight fabric.
Drape it behind a seating area or dessert table to create a focal point that ties your theme together. Choose floral, bohemian, or pastel designs to match the rest of your garden party decorations.
40. Repurposed Bicycle with a Flower Basket
If you have an old bicycle lying around (or can find one at a flea market), turn it into a charming decorative piece by adding a flower-filled basket to the handlebars.
Lean the bicycle against a tree or near the entrance of your garden party to create a picture-perfect scene. Adding fairy lights or ribbons makes it even more enchanting.
41. DIY Paper Fan Backdrops for a Colorful Pop
Paper fans are an inexpensive way to create a vibrant and eye-catching backdrop. Choose colors that match your party theme and arrange them in clusters on fences, trees, or behind your dessert table.
You can mix different sizes and patterns for a fun and dynamic display. This idea is perfect for adding a festive and playful vibe to your garden party decorations.
42. Vintage Book Page Garlands for a Literary Touch
For a unique and charming decoration, create garlands using pages from old books, sheet music, or vintage newspapers. Simply cut pages into triangles or scalloped shapes, string them together with twine, and hang them across your party space.
This adds a nostalgic, rustic feel to your garden party decorations and is perfect if you’re hosting a tea party, book club gathering, or literary-inspired event.
43. Hanging Birdcages with Flowers for a Fairytale Vibe
Old birdcages, whether real or decorative, can be repurposed as beautiful floral displays. Hang them from trees or use them as centerpieces by filling them with fresh or faux flowers.
For an enchanting evening look, add fairy lights inside the cages. This idea adds a vintage, fairytale-like charm to your garden party decorations without spending much.
44. Hanging Fruit Baskets
Why not decorate with real fruit? Use hanging wire baskets or macramé plant holders to display citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, or limes. They double as décor and refreshments—guests can grab a piece of fruit for a fresh snack!
Hang them from tree branches or pergolas for a Mediterranean-style garden aesthetic. The pops of natural color will bring vibrancy and freshness to your garden party while keeping things functional and affordable.
45. Upside-Down Umbrella Floral Display
Take a decorative umbrella, open it upside down, and suspend it from a tree branch or ceiling. Fill it with faux or fresh flowers, greenery, or even fairy lights for a whimsical floating floral arrangement.
This unexpected, eye-catching decoration will have guests raving about your creativity.
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