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6 DIY Wedding Decor Trends in 2026 that Couples are All-in on
- Mar 8, 2023
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 19
As we head into the 2026 wedding season, we're seeing many couples putting the final touches on their small backyard wedding plans and using some fun DIY elements to add that special sauce to their big days.
Small backyard weddings with DIY elements have been growing in popularity over the years, as they allow couples to add personal touches to their special day and create a unique, one-of-a-kind experience for themselves and their guests. Whether you're looking to showcase your own personality at your small backyard wedding or simply want to save some money on your big day, these DIY wedding trends are sure to inspire you.
6 DIY Wedding Trends that have Won 2026 Already
Aisle Runners that Highlight Your Artistic Side
After gaining major momentum through 2025, statement aisles are exploding as one of 2026’s top DIY focal points during the ceremony and we're certain that this trend is here to stay! Statement aisles used to be about expensive floral displays or candles that line the aisle, but as time goes on we're seeing more and more creative DIY versions of this! This is especially true for a small backyard wedding, where you can get unique and add some individuality to your layout.
Your aisle can be upgraded with next level concepts such as:
Interactive aisle art — chalk art, hand-painted markers guests can sign.
Mixed media elements — dried palm leaves + eco ribbon (very 2026 micro-wedding).
Poetry or Lyric Runners— Put down butcher paper or burlap and hand paint your favorite song lyrics, poems or scriptures on it. Newspaper clippings from the day you met could be romantic.
Since the aisle is one of the first things that your guests will see, getting creative here is a huge way to make an impression with some DIY.
Homemade Favors
Do you and your partner have a crafty hobby of some kind? Consider incorporating it into your big day as your wedding favors! Whether you like to make homemade jam, candles, or wood-burned coasters, giving your guests a handmade gift at the end of the night is something they won't soon forget. Even if you have limited crafting skills, there are still plenty of DIY favor ideas that anyone can make, offering the perfect bonding activity for your entire wedding party. We're loving:
Name-Card Matchbox combos with a homemade candle in your favorite scent.
Wood-burned coasters — tie to local wood sourcing (very backyard).
The New DIY Photo Booth
If you want to wake up with a gallery full of candid guest pics from your wedding night, it's no secret that you need a DIY photo booth. An Instax or Polaroid camera and plenty of film is all you need to set up a station for your guests to take pictures! But if you're looking for even more fun, you can create a really unique backdrop and some fun props to take the images to the next level. Consider:
Add QR-instant galleries for guests (linking instant shot uploads).
Add movie-themed backdrop kits couples sell on Etsy / Pinterest inspiration boards.
Set up fun props nearby such as headwear, glasses, musical instruments, face paints and other bedazzlements.
Be sure to have a hashtag suggested to make for easy finding on social media.
Homemade Beverages the New Way
For 2026, non-alcoholic options are a rising trend, particularly with younger couples. Some of new favorites are:
1) Garden Soda Bar
Sparkling water + homemade syrups + fresh herbs
Syrups you can make: blackberry-thyme, cherry-vanilla, cucumber-mint
2) Botanical Lemonade Stand
Base lemonade + lavender, basil, rosemary, blueberry reductions
Use clear pitchers for color pop
3) Zero-Proof Mojito Jugs
Lime juice + mint + brown sugar + soda water
Very wedding friendly + visually bright
4) Hibiscus Iced Tea
Jamaica hibiscus tea with lime + orange slices
Deep ruby color = incredible tablescape element
5) Cold Brew Coffee Bar
Assorted dessert table
Gone are the days of glitzy wedding cakes. In 2026, couples are breaking away from tradition and giving their guests lots of dessert options with an assorted dessert table. The best part? You can DIY your dessert table from all your favorite spots! Donuts from one shop, and cookies from another - your guests will be delighted to try out your favorite spots. If you want to make it even more special, you can ask family and friends to contribute to the dessert table with some of your favorite recipes (Grandma's apple pie, anyone?!).
Need some healthy dessert ideas for your guests: See our Top 10 Gluten-free desserts to offer your wedding guest on wedding day.
Homegrown Flowers
While this DIY isn't for the faint of heart, it's one that we loved so much we had to include it. In 2026, couples are growing their own flowers! From zinnias and sunflowers to hydrangeas and eucalyptus, if you have a green thumb and some outdoor space for growing, this DIY can absolutely transform your wedding. It will take a lot of time and hard work, but growing your own flowers is an incredibly unique touch and adds so much sentiment to your big day.
Takeaways from Top 6 DIY Wedding Trends in 2026
Having fun with the DIY touches to your small backyard wedding is one of the best ways to make your wedding day unique and memorable, while also saving you money. It's 2026 and couples are leaning into DIY trends! Have fun with it. Bring your own tastes into it and let your guests know you cared about their experience while keeping it true to you.
Are you interested in showcasing your favorite DIY wedding trends in 2026 by getting married at the historic Olde House? We’d love to be a part of your big day. Book now
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