Splurge-Worthy Moments That Make an Event Unforgettable
Budget-friendly doesn’t mean cutting out every indulgence. In fact, the best-planned events are the ones that balance smart spending with a few intentional splurges — the kind that create unforgettable moments and leave your guests saying, “That was so them.”
At Shannon Fowler Events, we help our clients identify what matters most to them, then guide them to invest wisely in a few show-stopping elements that elevate the entire event. Because when you splurge strategically, a little truly goes a long way.
Here are our favorite splurge-worthy ideas that deliver major impact — without demanding a major budget.
1. A Statement Floral Moment
Rather than florals everywhere, we recommend focusing your budget on one signature installation:
A floral arch or hanging floral cloud over the dance floor
A lush sweetheart table backdrop
A cascading staircase arrangement at your venue entrance
This type of focal point becomes a photo magnet and sets the tone for the entire event. Bonus: we often repurpose ceremony florals for the reception to double the impact.
2. A Signature Drink (or Two!)
Custom cocktails are a guest favorite — and an easy way to add personality and polish. Give your drinks:
A creative name tied to your story or pets
Stylish glassware
A garnish (citrus, herbs, edible flowers)
Even better? Pair it with a beautifully designed signature drink menu displayed at the bar. It’s a luxe detail that costs far less than a full open bar.
3. Customized Stationery or Signage
While many clients choose semi-custom paper suites, investing in one or two custom pieces can make your design feel completely bespoke. We love:
A hand-lettered welcome sign
A custom monogram carried throughout your signage and menus
Personalized escort cards styled beautifully on a display wall or table
Small details, big impression.
4. Lighting That Transforms the Space
Lighting is one of the most powerful tools in luxury event design. If you’re going to splurge, do it here — especially if your venue is a blank canvas.
Worth-it upgrades:
Café string lights overhead
Warm uplighting for walls or drapery
Candle clusters down the aisle or across reception tables
Lighting creates mood, warmth, and ambiance — even more than flowers.
5. A Memorable Guest Experience Moment
Want to make your event unforgettable? Build in a small but mighty guest experience they’ll talk about long after the last dance.
Some splurge-worthy favorites:
A live artist painting your ceremony in real time
A champagne tower or prosecco wall
A late-night food truck or mobile coffee bar
You don’t need all the bells and whistles — just one magical moment your guests will remember forever.
6. A Quality Photographer
This is the one splurge we always recommend. You can stretch your floral budget, streamline your rentals, and simplify your menu — but you can’t redo your wedding photos. A skilled photographer captures the emotion, the details, and the story of your day in a way that no budget-friendly shortcut can replicate.
If you’re going to make room in your budget for anything, make it this.
Let Your Priorities Be Your Luxury
At the end of the day, luxury is personal. It’s not about following trends or spending big — it’s about choosing a few things that matter most to you, and letting those be the stars of the show.
At Shannon Fowler Events, we’re here to help you make those decisions with confidence. We’ll guide you through what to save, what to splurge on, and how to design an event that feels luxurious, meaningful, and uniquely yours — no matter the budget.
Ready to bring your luxe-for-less vision to life? Let’s plan something unforgettable.
