Festive Decor: Paper Garland

Paper or fabric garlands (aka banners, bunting, etc.) are all the rage these days when it comes to decorating for weddings, birthday parties, barbeques, or any other festivity you happen to be planning. They are particulary great because they make an excellent style statement but are seriously simple to put together (yay, DIY!) and are very easy on your budget. Here are a few of our favorite paper garland creations:

This lighted paper garland is a great why to add a little style to your wedding while being fully fuctional by serving as a light source as well!  See the full tutorial over at OnceWed!

 This garland, made from vintage paper, is an absolutely charming twist on traditional paper garland.  We are loving the sweet heart cut outs and think this is something that is extremely doable in terms of DIY decorating. You may not be able to make it as beautiful as CoriKindred does, with her lovely vintage paper, but you can certainly take old books or newspapers to try to create a similar effect. 

We apologize, but we simply cannot get enough of dual purpose items... and Martha Stewart, for that matter!! Save money, paper, etc. by combining your decor into something that is useful. Having a fancy sit down dinner? Why not eliminate the need for table cards and let your beautiful paper garland also serve to display seating assignments! And, as a bonus, the above colors are so perfect for this spring and summer season.

This super feminine flag garland would be the perfect element to add to brighten up any girl's bridal shower, birthday party, afternoon tea, girls night, etc. The colors are bright and cheery and the patterns and prints are fun and eye catching!

And, it's obvious to see why we love this one, by Etsy's ModernJune, and it's not just for the festive, bright colors. The chalkcloth on one side makes these customizable. This garland can be used over and over, just wipe it clean with a damp cloth and write your new message! Today it says "Barbeque", but tomorrow it could say "Congrats", "True Love", "It's a Boy", "Bachelorette"... the opportunities are endless!

 Papel Picado banners are Mexican inspired banners that are made out of hand-cut tissue paper (and in this case, recycled paper). These banners, by aymujer, are so vibrant and will certainly add to your decor in a fun and exciting way. The "Love Sweet Love" banner, shown above, can be made in any color corresponding to your event, but you can also order custom made banners to include special designs, specific names, & dates. Keep in mind she requires 8 weeks for custom orders so if you're planning you event, be sure to order well in advance!

This wouldn't be a good summery post without a fun nautical element! This nautical garland, again by our girl Martha, is perfect for your nautical themed wedding, party, or summer BBQ. Navy and yellow is one of our very favorite combinations and we are liking the square flag, as opposed to the usual triangle flags we've been seeing. 

And, of course, we couldn't forget to mention that paper garlands do not always need to be in bright colors to make a beautiful statement. This ivory bunting is so simple, yet packs a big punch in terms of elegance and romance. This is the safest option for a lot of weddings because it will add the touch of fun and whimsy that you need without your whole event looking like a day at the circus.

XOXO

Jen & Saira