The right event decorator understands your style, has worked in venues like yours and gives you a clear, itemised quote with realistic set-up times. Start by agreeing a look and a table count, then check the decorator's real event photos, insurance and logistics. This checklist covers the questions we ask on every decor booking.
Key takeaways
- Ask for photos from real events, not just styled showroom shoots.
- Get an itemised quote that lists every piece, plus set-up and clear-down times.
- Check your venue's rules on candles, fixings and outside suppliers first.
What should you decide before contacting decorators?
You will get better quotes if you know the basics. Decide your colour palette, the feel you want and roughly how many guest tables there will be. Gather a few photos you love, and a few you do not.
Also decide which areas matter most to you. For a wedding that might be the stage and entrance. For a corporate awards night it might be the stage set and table styling that carry the brand.
It also helps to know your rough priorities before the first call. If fresh flowers matter more to you than chair covers, or a strong entrance matters more than tall centrepieces, say so. A good decorator will shape the quote around what you care about.
What should you check with your venue?
Venues have rules that shape what decor is possible, so check these before you commit to a design.
- Rules on naked flames, candles and confetti.
- Whether anything can be fixed to walls or ceilings.
- Access times for set-up and the deadline for clear-down.
- Table sizes and shapes the venue provides.
- Whether outside decorators pay a fee or must be on an approved list.
Tip from our team: Ask the venue for its table plan and table dimensions. A centrepiece that looks perfect on a small round can look lost on a large one.
How do you judge a decorator's portfolio?
Look for photos from real events, taken in real venues under evening light. Showroom shoots are useful for ideas but do not show how a team performs on the day.
Ask whether they have worked at your venue or similar ones. A decorator who has styled large banqueting halls in Southall or Birmingham will plan differently from one who mostly does small marquee parties, and both have their place.
Want a quote for event decor?
Free, no obligation. Tell us your date and venue.
What questions should you ask an event decorator?
Good decorators answer these clearly and put the answers in writing.
Ask to see a sample centrepiece if your event is large. Many decorators will arrange a mock-up or share photos of the exact design on the same table size, which avoids surprises when you walk into the room.
- Can you give an itemised quote listing every piece?
- Are the flowers fresh, artificial or mixed?
- How many people will set up, and how long will it take?
- Is clear-down included, and at what time?
- Do you hold public liability insurance?
- What happens if an item is damaged or a flower delivery is short?
What are the red flags when booking a decorator?
Be cautious if a decorator will not itemise their quote, cannot tell you crew numbers or only shares heavily edited images. Vague answers about clear-down time are another warning sign, as venues may charge if decor is left late.
It is also worth being honest about fit. If your event is small and simple, a full decor team may be more than you need, and a few well-chosen pieces could be the better option. We will tell you if we think that is the case.
Want a quote for event decor?
Free, no obligation. Tell us your date and venue.
How far ahead should you book event decor?
Book as soon as your venue and date are confirmed. Summer weekends, the Christmas party season and popular wedding dates fill early, across London, the Midlands and the North.
Finalise your design and table count a few months before, then confirm final numbers and timings in the last few weeks. Our team covers the whole UK and stays your single point of contact from enquiry to event.
Frequently asked questions
What does an event decorator do on the day?
The decorator's team delivers, sets up and styles everything before guests arrive, then returns at the end to clear down. Some stay on site to handle changes between a ceremony and reception.
Can I use my own decor items with a hired decorator?
Many decorators are happy to include personal items such as photos or family pieces. Agree this in advance so they can plan space and handling.
Do decorators need insurance?
Yes, and many venues insist on it. Every Party Central partner holds public liability insurance and is vetted by our team.
Should I book decor before or after my venue?
After. The venue's size, table shapes, access times and rules all shape what decor is possible, so confirm the venue first.
Find a decorator who fits your style
Tell us about your event and we will match you with a vetted decor partner.
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Written by the Party Central events team. Prices mentioned are starting points only. Exact pricing depends on availability, your exact requirements, time on site and location. Party Central is a trading name of Booking Central Ltd.
