Planning entertainment and decor for your wedding can feel overwhelming, but it’s all about creating a memorable experience for you and your guests. Here’s what you need to know:
- Budgeting: Allocate funds wisely. Australian couples typically spend around $1,693 on entertainment and $2,443 on decor. DJs cost $700–$3,000, while live bands start at $2,000+.
- Entertainment Options: Choose between DJs (48% of couples) for endless music variety or live bands (35%) for a unique vibe. Interactive options like photo booths and live caricatures are growing in popularity.
- Decor Essentials: Flower walls, light-up letters, and custom signage are standout items. Incorporate personal touches like framed photos or milestone markers to tell your story.
- Combining Decor & Entertainment: Align themes across lighting, music, and decor to create a cohesive atmosphere. Position key features like photo booths and flower walls in high-traffic areas.
- Complete Packages: Bundling entertainment and decor services saves time, simplifies planning, and ensures consistency.
Quick Comparison Table
| Category | Option A | Option B | Cost Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entertainment | Live Band | DJ | $2,000+ / $700+ | Unique vibe / Non-stop music |
| Photo Booths | Open-Air | Enclosed | $700+ / $800+ | Large groups / Privacy |
| Feature Decor | Flower Wall | Light-Up Letters | $300–$800 / $200–$600 | Romantic settings / Modern themes |
Start early, prioritise your must-haves, and focus on creating a day that reflects your relationship. For a stress-free experience, consider using bundled services to handle both entertainment and decor seamlessly.
7 UNIQUE WEDDING ENTERTAINMENT IDEAS – make your Wedding Entertainment Amazing!
Popular Wedding Entertainment Options in Australia
Couples tying the knot in Australia today have an incredible variety of entertainment options to choose from, catering to different styles, budgets, and guest preferences. From timeless live music to modern interactive experiences, there’s something to make every wedding unforgettable. Let’s take a closer look at two popular choices: live bands versus DJs, and the rise of interactive entertainment.
Live Bands vs DJs
Deciding between a live band and a DJ is a big call for many couples. Recent data shows that 48% of couples opt for a DJ, 35% go for a live band, and 17% choose to have both. When it comes to cost, DJs typically charge between $1,500 and $3,000 for a standard reception, with premium services costing more. Live bands, on the other hand, average around $4,500, while solo musicians and duos offer more affordable alternatives, ranging from $800–$1,500 and $1,300–$2,500 respectively.
Each option brings its own charm. Live bands deliver an energetic, one-of-a-kind experience, often improvising to create a magical atmosphere that pre-recorded tracks just can’t replicate. However, they do need more space and usually perform for a minimum of three hours. DJs, meanwhile, shine with their versatility, offering an extensive music library and the ability to adapt to requests on the fly, effortlessly blending genres to keep the energy alive. Companies like One Click Events provide tailored packages for both, helping couples find the perfect fit for their wedding style.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your wedding theme and guest preferences. If you want a lively, spontaneous performance, a live band might be the way to go. For a seamless mix of tunes that caters to diverse tastes, a DJ is hard to beat.
Interactive Entertainment
Interactive entertainment has become a must-have at modern Australian weddings. Photo booths are leading the charge, with searches for wedding photo apps up by 56%. Among the most sought-after options are 360° video booths, which allow guests to capture incredible cinematic moments from every angle.
"Our guests couldn’t get enough of the 360 booth! It was the highlight of our reception, and we have the most incredible videos to remember our special day." – Sarah & James
One Click Events offers a variety of photo booth options to suit different preferences. Open-air booths encourage a social vibe, perfect for larger groups, while enclosed booths provide a more private setting for intimate shots. Mirror booths with touchscreen technology combine elegance with fun, featuring on-screen animations and instant social media sharing.
Beyond photo booths, live entertainment is gaining ground. For instance, Wedding Caricatures – The Art of Comics in Brisbane offers live guest portraits in just 5–7 minutes. Dance Dance Dance creates custom dance routines, with performer Ricardo sharing:
"We often get into a situation where it is extremely hard to get people to stop dancing and having fun, and clients request for us to extend more party interaction… Whenever we apply the elements of surprise all our guests respond with happiness, laughter, happy shock, and are completely mesmerised."
Interactive entertainment like this adds a unique flair to weddings, keeping guests engaged and entertained throughout the celebration.
Entertainment for Children and Families
For weddings with families on the guest list, inclusive entertainment is key to ensuring everyone has a great time. Activities like kids’ corners with face painting are a hit at family-friendly celebrations. One Click Events recognises the importance of these offerings and includes face painting as part of their services.
Airbrush tattoos are another fun option, giving younger guests temporary designs to enjoy during the festivities. To make things seamless, position children’s activities in areas where parents can easily supervise while staying part of the main event. Interactive options like photo booths also work well for all ages, creating shared moments that bring everyone together.
Key Wedding Decor Items for Your Big Day
Creating the perfect wedding atmosphere starts with decor that mirrors your style and leaves a lasting impression throughout the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception. Here’s a look at some decor elements that can truly transform your venue at every stage of your special day.
Feature Decor Items
Flower walls are a standout choice, offering a stunning backdrop for both your ceremony and photos. These versatile installations can serve as a romantic focal point behind the altar while you exchange vows and later be repositioned to enhance your cocktail hour or reception space. For example, One Click Events provides flower wall hire that allows for easy transitions, ensuring you get the most out of this decor piece.
Light-up letters add a touch of glamour and personality to your venue. These illuminated installations make for striking photo backdrops, especially during the evening. Consider placing them behind the bridal table or as part of a dessert station display. One Click Events offers light-up letter hire to suit a variety of styles and themes.
Custom signage not only helps guide your guests but also ties into your wedding theme. From welcome signs to seating charts and table markers, incorporating your wedding colours, fonts, or meaningful quotes into the signage adds a personal touch.
The beauty of these feature decor items lies in their versatility. Many can be used across different parts of your wedding day, allowing you to maximise their impact while staying within your budget.
Venue Styling and Personal Touches
Work with your venue’s natural charm to create a stylish foundation. Pearl Mansion offers essential decor like arches, aisle runners, faux florals, signage, and classic furniture to complement the space. This approach allows you to focus your budget on adding personal touches that make your wedding uniquely yours.
Ceremony styling should centre on the altar, as it’s the visual and emotional focal point during your vows. Enhance the setting with aisle decorations and welcome signage to create a cohesive and inviting entrance for your guests.
Reception personalisation is key since this is where your guests will spend most of their time. Allocate a good portion of your decor budget here. Think custom table settings, unique linens, and personalised centrepieces that tell your story and keep your guests engaged.
In September 2024, 1890 Weddings + Events in Kansas City shared a creative idea: couples can incorporate milestone markers into floral arrangements or seating displays to visually represent key moments in their relationship, such as first dates or proposals. This turns decor into a storytelling element that guests are sure to remember.
"Your wedding is more than just a celebration – it’s a reflection of your unique love story." – Pearl Mansion
You can also weave your story into the decor with framed photos, table names inspired by meaningful places, or signage featuring favourite quotes. For travel enthusiasts, postcards from cherished destinations make thoughtful table markers, while book lovers can incorporate literary quotes into their place settings.
The best wedding decor creates a seamless and emotional journey for your guests, from the moment they receive your invitation to their final farewell. By blending statement pieces with personal details and embracing your venue’s natural beauty, you’ll craft an atmosphere that’s not only visually stunning but also deeply meaningful to your love story.
Combining Entertainment and Decor
Bringing together entertainment and decor isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s about creating an atmosphere that tells your love story and keeps your guests engaged from start to finish. When done right, this combination elevates both the visual appeal and the overall experience of your wedding.
The key to this harmony lies in theme consistency. For example, your DJ setup shouldn’t just be functional – it should blend seamlessly with your decor. Think about aligning elements like the photo booth backdrop and flower wall for a cohesive look. If you’re embracing the bold, vibrant colour trends of 2025, consider pairing light-up letters with dynamic entertainment lighting to unify the vibe across your venue.
Interactive decor is also becoming increasingly popular. Guests love experiences that are both fun and memorable. By combining these interactive elements with entertainment, such as placing a photo booth near a flower wall, you can create something that’s both an activity and a design feature.
Now, let’s dive into how layout and positioning can bring everything together.
Layout and Positioning
The way you arrange your space can make all the difference in how your decor and entertainment flow together. Start by assessing your venue’s size and natural layout to ensure every element is positioned for maximum impact.
"Event design is essential in turning a simple gathering into a memorable spectacle. It involves meticulously crafting every visual and sensory detail to create a cohesive, impactful experience that resonates with guests."
– melaniew, Onstage Entertainment
Entertainment placement is about finding the sweet spot between acoustics and aesthetics. For example, a DJ setup – like One Click Events’ Standard DJ package featuring 400W speakers, gig bar lights, accent lighting, and a wireless mic – should be placed where sound carries well without overpowering conversation areas. Position the lighting to complement your decor, ensuring it enhances rather than competes with other elements.
Photo booth positioning is another critical detail. Place the booth in a high-traffic area, near decor features like your flower wall or light-up letters, to naturally draw guests in. This not only makes it a functional entertainment piece but also an integrated part of your design.
Lighting coordination is the final piece of the puzzle. Syncing your decor and entertainment lighting ensures smooth transitions in mood throughout the event, whether it’s the romantic glow during dinner or energising lights on the dance floor.
As the celebration progresses, create a natural flow by shifting focal points. For instance, while the altar may take centre stage during the ceremony, the dance floor – complete with your DJ setup and surrounding decor – can become the heart of the reception.
Complete Packages for Easy Planning
If juggling multiple vendors sounds overwhelming, opting for all-in-one packages can simplify the planning process. Providers like One Click Events offer bundled services that integrate entertainment and decor, making it easier to achieve a cohesive look and feel.
These packages ensure styling consistency, so everything from props to decor accents aligns with your theme. For instance, a flower wall can double as a photo booth backdrop, while light-up letters enhance the overall aesthetic – without the hassle of coordinating separate vendors.
Setup efficiency is another major perk. A single team handling both decor and entertainment means faster, more streamlined installation. This ensures everything is in place on time, with no last-minute surprises.
You’ll also appreciate the budget predictability that comes with bundled services. Instead of managing multiple quotes and payment schedules, packages often offer transparent pricing, saving you both time and money.
For couples embracing the sustainable wedding trends of 2025, these packages are a great fit. Vendors can ensure all elements adhere to eco-conscious practices while incorporating interactive decor to keep guests engaged.
And don’t worry about losing your personal touch – customisation options within these packages allow you to tweak colours, styles, and layouts to suit your venue and theme. This way, every detail reflects your unique vision while benefiting from the convenience of coordinated services.
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Wedding Entertainment and Decor Budget Planning
Planning your wedding budget is all about finding the right balance between your vision and your finances. With Australian couples spending an average of $36,000 to $51,000 on their weddings, knowing how to allocate funds for entertainment and decor is a key step in making your day unforgettable.
The first step? Prioritise what matters most to you and your partner. Wedding planning expert Darcy Allen advises:
"You’ll first need to consider the location and non-negotiable elements of your wedding. For example, will you spend more on food and drinks and less on flowers? Or more on entertainment and less on photography or videography? These things should be discussed with your partner in great detail before finalising the wedding budget."
Typically, couples allocate about 10% of their budget to decor and styling and another 8% to entertainment. These benchmarks can guide your decisions, helping you assess costs and focus on what adds the most value to your celebration.
Typical Costs and Value Breakdown
Understanding the average costs of decor and entertainment can help you spend wisely. On average, Australian couples invest around $2,443 on wedding decorations and $2,421 on furniture and decor hire.
Entertainment costs vary widely depending on your choices:
- DJs start at about $700, while live bands begin at $2,000.
- Solo musicians cost from $500, duos from $800, and string quartets from $1,200.
- For something interactive, photo booths start at $700, children’s entertainment from $400, and magicians typically from $800.
Decor expenses are equally flexible based on your style and scale:
- Ceremony arches range from $75 to $1,000, especially if flowers are included.
- Table centrepieces can cost anywhere between $50 and $500 per table.
- Lighting options vary from $200 for simple fairy lights to $5,000 for elaborate setups.
Several factors can influence these costs. Weddings in cities like Sydney or Melbourne often come with higher price tags than those in regional areas. Timing also plays a role – peak seasons and Saturday weddings tend to be more expensive. The experience level of your entertainers is another factor, with seasoned professionals usually charging more.
To get the best value, consider these strategies:
- Book off-peak dates like mid-week or during cooler months for potential discounts.
- Choose venues with built-in charm, like historic buildings or lush gardens, to save on decor.
- Focus on high-impact pieces rather than trying to decorate every corner.
- Rent expensive items instead of buying them outright.
As entertainment specialist Elinor Zucchet puts it:
"Great entertainment can be the difference between a beautiful wedding and one that’s truly memorable".
Getting the Most from Complete Packages
For couples juggling multiple vendors and quotes, complete packages can simplify planning while keeping costs in check. These bundles offer both convenience and often better value than hiring services separately.
Take One Click Events’ DJ packages as an example. Their Standard DJ package, priced at $770, includes everything from a 4-channel digital DJ controller to a wireless microphone. For $990, their Premium DJ package adds extras like a 500W subwoofer, laser light, and smoke machine. These packages not only streamline decisions but also ensure all equipment works seamlessly together.
Beyond cost savings, packages save time. Instead of coordinating with multiple vendors, you work with a single provider who handles everything – delivery, setup, and pack-down included. This approach reduces stress and frees up time for other planning tasks.
Another advantage? Established package providers often have relationships with venues and other vendors, which can lead to extra perks like discounts or preferred scheduling. Plus, they’ve fine-tuned their offerings over time, ensuring everything fits together perfectly.
While packages simplify the process, they still allow for personalisation. You can usually tweak colours, styles, or specific elements to match your theme and venue.
For couples feeling overwhelmed by endless options, packages offer a curated, professional solution. They take the guesswork out of planning, giving you confidence that everything will come together beautifully – without the hassle of managing multiple vendor relationships.
Entertainment and Decor Options Comparison
Selecting the right entertainment and decor for your wedding means balancing your vision, budget, and venue requirements. Factors like the size of your venue, the number of guests, and your wedding’s overall style all play a role in making these decisions. Entertainment and decor should complement one another to create a seamless experience.
Understanding your options can help simplify the planning process. Each choice has its own advantages and limitations, so knowing these differences will help you make decisions that fit your priorities and venue setup.
Comparison Table: Entertainment and Decor Choices
When evaluating your options, think about how each choice affects your budget, the space available, guest engagement, and the atmosphere you want to create. Here’s a closer look at some popular entertainment and decor options:
| Category | Option A | Option B | Cost Range | Space Requirements | Guest Interaction | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entertainment | Live Band | DJ | Band: $2,000+ DJ: $700+ |
Band: Large stage area DJ: Small corner setup |
Band: High crowd interaction DJ: Moderate interaction |
Band: Intimate settings, unique vibe DJ: Non-stop music, variety |
| Photo Experience | Open-Air Photo Booth | Enclosed Photo Booth | Open-air: $700+ Enclosed: $800+ |
Open-air: 3m x 3m minimum Enclosed: 2m x 2m footprint |
Open-air: Large groups Enclosed: 2–4 people max |
Open-air: Big weddings, flexibility Enclosed: Privacy, classic feel |
| Feature Decor | Flower Wall | Light-Up Letters | Flower wall: $300–800 Light-up letters: $200–600 |
Flower wall: 2–3m wide backdrop Letters: Flexible placement |
Flower wall: Photo backdrop Letters: Interactive spelling |
Flower wall: Romantic themes Letters: Modern/industrial spaces |
| Music Style | Solo Musician | String Quartet | Solo: $500+ Quartet: $1,200+ |
Solo: Minimal space Quartet: Small performance area |
Solo: Personal and intimate Quartet: Elegant and formal |
Solo: Small ceremonies Quartet: Traditional, upscale events |
This table highlights some key factors to consider. For example, the choice between a live band and a DJ often comes down to energy versus efficiency. As Hey Jack explains:
"Generally, a DJ is going to be a bit more cost-effective than a full live wedding band since there’s only one person compared to a band where the sky is the limit!"
Live bands bring an unmatched energy, offering unique renditions of songs and engaging the crowd in a way that’s hard to replicate. However, they do need breaks – typically playing four 45-minute sets over a five-hour period – and require more space for equipment and setup.
DJs, on the other hand, provide continuous music without interruptions and can play a virtually unlimited range of songs. As Callum Gracie puts it:
"A DJ has the flexibility and resources available to play almost any song, in any genre, at any time!"
For photo experiences, the choice between open-air and enclosed booths depends on the type of interaction you want. Open-air booths are perfect for larger groups and allow for creative use of props and backdrops, making them ideal for weddings with lots of families and friend groups. Enclosed booths, while more private and traditional, limit group sizes to 2–4 people.
When it comes to decor, your choices often reflect your wedding’s overall theme. Flower walls are stunning for romantic, garden, or bohemian settings, serving as beautiful photo backdrops. Light-up letters, on the other hand, are a great fit for modern or industrial venues, offering a fun and interactive element where guests can pose with meaningful words or initials.
Another factor to consider is whether to go for a complete package or choose individual services. Complete packages are convenient and can save time by bundling services together, often at a better price. However, selecting individual services allows for more customisation, letting you mix and match providers to create a highly personalised experience. While this approach may require more effort and coordination, it can result in a wedding that feels uniquely yours.
Finally, your venue and event timing will influence how you balance decor and entertainment. For instance, historic buildings or garden venues with natural charm may need less decor, while live bands often require more time for setup and sound checks compared to DJs.
Conclusion: Main Points for Wedding Planning
Creating a wedding that feels personal and engaging comes down to focusing on the essentials. Adding interactive features can turn your guests from spectators into active participants, leaving everyone with unforgettable memories.
While creative ideas are exciting, careful budget planning is just as important. Knowing the typical costs for entertainment and decor options allows you to make smart decisions that offer great value. Opting for complete packages can also help simplify the process, saving you the hassle of juggling multiple suppliers.
When it comes to entertainment, blending options that cater to all age groups is a smart move. Think live musicians for a relaxed vibe or DJs to keep the dance floor alive. For decor, you can pair standout items like light-up letters with personal touches that reflect your relationship and wedding style.
The way you arrange entertainment and decor can make a big difference in how your guests experience the day. Placing interactive features in busy areas encourages people to join in, while strategic decor placement can enhance the atmosphere without making the space feel cluttered. Keep your venue’s layout and guest demographics in mind to ensure everything works together seamlessly and aligns with your theme.
To take things up a notch, consider some of the latest trends, like DJ and saxophone duos, custom dance floors wrapped in vinyl, or after-party sets that keep the celebration going late into the night. High-impact lighting displays and eco-friendly styling are also gaining traction at weddings across Australia.
For couples planning their big day, One Click Events offers a range of entertainment and decor solutions tailored to Australian weddings. Their experienced team takes an all-in-one approach, making it easier to bring your vision to life without the stress of managing multiple suppliers. This allows you to focus on enjoying your engagement and looking forward to your special day.
FAQs
How can I balance my wedding budget for entertainment and decor while creating an unforgettable experience for my guests?
To manage your wedding budget for entertainment and decor in Australia, it’s a good idea to allocate around 10-15% of your total budget to decor and 8-10% to entertainment. These elements play a big role in setting the mood and creating a great experience for your guests.
When it comes to decor, focus on standout features like floral arrangements, creative lighting, or statement pieces – think flower walls or illuminated letters. These can serve as eye-catching backdrops without pushing you over budget.
For entertainment, choose options that match your style and will keep your guests engaged. Popular choices include live bands, DJs, or interactive features like photo booths. Since costs can vary widely, prioritise what you think your guests will enjoy the most. If needed, you can adjust spending in less important areas to make sure these key elements are just right. With careful planning, you can create an unforgettable day while keeping your finances in check.
What are some fun and creative entertainment ideas to keep guests of all ages engaged at my wedding?
Looking to make your wedding stand out in a special way? One idea is to include live painting, where an artist captures the essence of your celebration on canvas as it unfolds. Not only does this create a stunning memento of your day, but it also provides a fascinating spectacle for your guests to enjoy.
For something more playful, consider setting up giant outdoor games like Jenga or Connect Four. These are great for breaking the ice and keeping the energy lively. Another fun option is a colouring station with wedding-themed designs – perfect for kids and even adults who want to tap into their creative side.
These thoughtful additions can make your wedding feel more personal and ensure your guests leave with cherished memories of your big day.
How can I make sure my wedding entertainment and decor work together and reflect my style?
To craft a wedding that feels truly personal and flows seamlessly, start by pinpointing your theme and style. Think about the colours, textures, and design elements that genuinely represent you as a couple. Creating a visual mood board can be a great way to gather your ideas and ensure everything feels unified, from the decor to the entertainment.
Add touches that speak to who you are, like incorporating your favourite flowers, signature colours, or elements that reflect your heritage. Use decor pieces – floral arrangements, lighting, or centrepieces – that match your theme, and pair them with entertainment choices, such as a live band or DJ, that fit the vibe you’re going for. When these details come together, they’ll create a wedding day that feels harmonious and uniquely yours.