Sweets

• A simple way to decorate a wedding reception is to use cookies and other sweets. Simply purchase glass bowls or jars and fill them with sweets and cookies wrapped in foil and other shiny wrappers. These decorations also double as wedding favors as each guest can take some of the cookies and treats with them.
  
  

Flowers

• Save money on flower arrangements by making flowers your own. There are several different flower templates and instructions a bride and groom can find in craft stores or online. Another money-saving flower idea is to use a gelatin mold as the container, arrange the flowers on one side and place the empty side against the wall.
  
  

Greenery

• Decorate wedding reception plants by billowing tulle around the base of the plant and on top of the soil. Use decorative baskets, pots and other containers to add flair to the greenery. Another greenery idea is to take four plant stands in graduated sizes and decorate the stands. Place a plant of your choice on top of each stand and frame the wedding party table with the plant stands.
  
  

Chairs

• Renting lavish reception chairs can be expensive. To reduce costs, rent inexpensive white folding chairs and decorate the chairs with tulle, ribbon and flowers. Be sure to match everything to your chosen color scheme.
  
  

Candles

• Set a romantic mood at the reception with the use of candles. Purchase several bags of small tea candles and place the candles around the room or consider purchasing floating candles and letting them float in bowels of water at every table. Lit or not, the candles will add atmosphere to the room.
  
  

Ribbons

• Ribbons are simple and mostly inexpensive, however, the use of an elegant ribbon can tie an entire wedding theme together. Use the themed color ribbons for wedding favors, table centerpieces and napkin holders.
  
  

Nature

• For summer or spring weddings, nature provides many decorations that are ideal for weddings. Consider using the flowers and greenery of the season to add a bit of nature to the wedding reception. For example, if you're having a fall wedding, you can decorate the tables with fall leaves and use pumpkins and gourds as centerpieces.