As I help my daughter Britty plan her wedding—after already blessing us with two beautiful grandbabies, Skye and Emmy!—we’re finding ways to celebrate big while spending small. Britty's always had a thrifty streak, and together we’re determined to make her big day both magical and manageable!
I’ve been using a little help from AI to generate fun inspiration photos, so we can see what ideas might look like before we start crafting or thrifting. It's a great way to try out styles and spark creativity without wasting time or money on something that might not fit her vibe. That said, I went on an in life hunt for these things and found some great examples!
Weddings might be feeling the pinch lately—tariffs, inflation, you name it—but that doesn’t mean you have to settle for anything less than fabulous. Thrift stores are treasure troves of potential, packed with charm, nostalgia, and style just waiting to be reimagined.
Here are 10 thrift store finds that can elevate your wedding decor without draining your wallet!
If you haven't ever visited thrift stores or haven't been in a while I thought you might like to see some actual things at local thrift stores in my area in the last couple of days… examples after the wedding inspiration photos!
1. Vintage Vases & Votives
Mix-and-match glass vases, candle holders, and votives can create gorgeous floral arrangements and tablescapes. Look for cut glass, colored glass, or quirky shapes. Clustering different heights and styles adds dimension and a designer feel.
Check for these types of finds:
2. Assorted China & Mismatched Plates
A full set of matching dinnerware is overrated. Hunt for floral, gilded, or patterned plates in different styles for an eclectic, romantic look. Bonus points if you find teacups for coffee service or dessert.
Check for these types of finds:
3. Fabric Finds: Linens, Lace & Doilies
Old linens can be transformed into elegant table runners, altar backdrops, or DIY napkins. Lace curtains or doilies also make dreamy boho or vintage accents when layered creatively.
Check for these types of finds:
4. Picture Frames for DIY Signage
Gold-leaf, carved wood, or even spray-painted frames can hold welcome signs, bar menus, table numbers, or seating charts. Pop in a chalkboard insert, mirror, or printed paper and you’re done.
Check for these types of finds:
5. Candleholders, Candelabras & Lanterns
Nothing sets the mood like soft lighting. Thrifted candle holders, whether brass, glass, or ceramic, make magical centerpieces. Group them on trays or mirrors for extra glow.
Check for these types of finds:
6. Old Books & Sheet Music
Books with pretty spines or covers add vintage flair to centerpieces or memory tables. Sheet music is lovely for wrapping favors, making paper cones for petals, or layering under glassware.
Check for these types of finds:
7. Baskets, Crates & Trays
Great for holding programs, favors, or blankets for chilly outdoor weddings. Baskets and wooden crates are also perfect for rustic, garden, or barn-style decor.
Check for these types of finds:
8. Costume Jewelry & Brooches
Look for sparkly brooches, strands of faux pearls, or clip-on earrings to add to bouquets, hair accessories, or napkin rings. It’s a fun way to sneak in something old and glam.
Check for these types of finds:
9. Mirrors, Windows & Doors
Repurpose old mirrors or window panes as signage or seating charts. A distressed door can become a ceremony backdrop or photo booth frame with a little greenery and creativity.
Check for these types of finds:
10. Holiday & Party Decor
Don’t skip the holiday section! You might find string lights, metallic garlands, or even faux trees that can be adapted to suit your color palette or theme. A little spray paint goes a long way.
Check for these types of finds:
Thrift Store Wedding Decor Inspiration Wrapup
With a little vision and some creative reuse, a thrifted wedding can be every bit as stunning as a designer one—and often a lot more personal. Whether your style is boho, romantic vintage, rustic, or full-on maximalist, there’s a world of charm waiting on those dusty shelves.
Britty and I are having a ball dreaming things up together, and I hope these ideas help you do the same. Happy thrifting—and happy ever after!
Here are some more great posts you might love: