Decorators work from what you show them. Couples who arrive with reference photos, a guest count and a list of functions get far more accurate quotes than couples who ask for "something elegant". This guide walks you through building that brief and comparing decorators fairly.
Build Your Brief First
- Functions: list every event that needs decor, such as mehndi, sangeet, wedding and reception, with dates and venues.
- Guest count and layout: seated dinner, buffet, floor seating or a mix.
- Look and colours: collect a few reference photos per function and note what you like in each.
- Must-haves: stage, mandap, entrance, photo corner, ceiling or table decor.
- Budget range: share an honest range so the decorator can suggest what fits.
Fresh vs Artificial Flowers
Fresh flowers look and smell wonderful, but they cost more, depend on the season and need careful timing. Artificial flowers cost less, can be reused across functions and survive heat, but look different up close. Many couples use fresh flowers where guests are closest, such as the mandap, stage and entrance, and artificial flowers for large backdrops. Whatever you choose, agree it setup by setup.
Reuse Decor Across Functions
If the same decorator handles several functions, ask them to plan the decor as one set: lighting, drapes, props and some floral elements can move from the sangeet to the reception with a change of colours. It often saves money and reduces setup time between events.
Check the Venue's Rules
- When the decorator can enter to set up, and when everything must be removed.
- Whether open flames, candles, confetti or cold pyros are allowed.
- Rules on fixing anything to walls or ceilings.
- Power supply for lighting, and who provides the backup generator.
- For outdoor venues, a plan for rain or strong wind.
Questions to Ask Before You Book
- Can you show complete setups you have done at a venue like ours?
- Will you share a sketch or mock-up for each setup?
- Which flowers will be fresh and which artificial?
- What is included: lighting, furniture, stage, carpets, sound?
- How long does setup take, and who will be on site on the day?
- Who removes the decor afterwards, and when?
- What happens if a flower or item you promised isn't available?
Red Flags
- Only stock images or other decorators' photos in the portfolio.
- No sketch or written description of what you will get.
- A single price with no breakdown by setup.
Finding Decorators on Wedding Bharat
Browse wedding decorators and tent houses by city on Wedding Bharat and contact them directly on WhatsApp. Before you pay an advance, use the vendor contract checklist to get each setup in writing.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I book a wedding decorator?
After your venue is fixed, since the design depends on the space. Good decorators book up for popular dates, so start comparing soon after.
What is the difference between a decorator and a tent house?
A tent house usually supplies structures and basics, such as tents, shamianas, furniture, carpets and lighting. A decorator designs the look and adds flowers, styling and themed setups. Many weddings use both, and some businesses offer both.
Should I use fresh or artificial flowers?
Many couples use fresh flowers where guests are closest, such as the mandap, stage and entrance, and artificial flowers for large backdrops. Agree in writing which is used where.
Can one decorator handle all my wedding functions?
Yes, and it often helps: they can reuse lighting, drapes and props across events with changes of colour, which can save money and setup time.
Can I contact decorators directly on Wedding Bharat?
Yes. Sign in and you see the vendor's own WhatsApp number, so you message them yourself with no middleman. Your first 3 vendor contacts are free; after that, membership is ₹49/month.