Is It Cheaper to Rent or Buy Linens for a Wedding?

Selecting linens for a wedding isn’t just about practicality—it’s also a chance to set the tone and aesthetic of the celebration. Linens protect tables and add elegance, with items like napkins, table runners, chair covers, and tablecloths playing essential roles. 

While many venues provide standard linens, couples often explore renting options or buying custom linens to fit their theme. To help you decide, we’ll outline the advantages and disadvantages of renting and purchasing wedding linens. 

Whether your wedding will be in a grand ballroom or a rustic outdoor setting, understanding the costs and practicalities will help you make the best choice.

Let’s get straight to the point

Whether to rent or buy wedding linens depends on budget, convenience, and long-term needs. Buying linens can be cost-effective, especially if you plan to resell or reuse them, and allows for higher-quality, customised choices. 

However, you’ll need storage space and must clean them post-event. Renting linens, while potentially more expensive, is convenient since companies handle delivery, setup, and pickup.

Rental companies offer various services and save you from storage hassles, though the conditions may vary due to previous use. Whichever option you choose, start planning early, consider venue-provided options, and budget for potential extra costs to create a stylish, memorable wedding setup.

Buying Versus Renting

Whether to rent or buy linens depends on various factors, including budget, storage space, and plans for post-wedding use. Below, we break down the benefits and potential downsides of each option.

Advantages Of Buying Wedding Linens

1. Long-Term Savings: Buying linens can be cost-effective, especially for those planning to reuse or sell them afterwards. Owning the linens means no rental fee, and items can be reused for other gatherings.
2. Quality Control: Purchased linens are often of higher quality, and you have control over their condition. New linens can offer a fresher, more refined look than rentals that may have been used multiple times.
3. Customisation Options: With buying, you can select colours, patterns, and sizes that match your vision. You’re not limited to the rental company’s inventory, allowing more personalisation.
4. Resale Value: After the wedding, linens can be sold online or locally, recouping some of the initial costs. Websites like Craigslist, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace can be great platforms to find buyers.

Downsides To Buying

• Storage Needs: Storing linens before and after the event can be challenging, especially if you have little space.
• Maintenance: Washing and ironing the linens after an event can require time and effort, especially if they’re stained or wrinkled.

Benefits Of Renting Wedding Linens

1. Convenience: Rental companies typically handle delivery and pickup, allowing you to focus on other wedding details and not worry about cleaning the linens afterwards.
2. Availability of Variety: Many rental companies offer a wide selection of linens, including unique materials like satin, lace, and sequins. You can often rent specialty items, like chair sashes and runners, without buying them.
3. No Long-Term Storage: After the wedding, you simply return the linens to the rental company, avoiding the need for storage.

Drawbacks To Renting

• Higher Costs: Renting can be more expensive than purchasing, especially if the event spans multiple days. Additionally, rentals usually include delivery fees, security deposits, and potential damage fees.
• Less Control Over Condition: Since rental linens are reused, you may not receive them in pristine condition. If the company’s quality checks aren’t rigorous, you could be left with wrinkled or lightly damaged items.

Key Considerations When Renting Linens

If renting seems like the best choice, keep these factors in mind to streamline the process.

Selecting The Right Rental Linens

1. Event Aesthetic: Consider your wedding's overall theme and colour scheme. The linens should enhance the visual appeal of your venue, whether it’s a formal ballroom or a relaxed outdoor setting.
2. Functionality Needs: Different linens are used for various purposes, from tablecloths and overlays to napkins and chair sashes. Ensure you know the specific items you’ll need to complete your setup.
3. Order Extras: Always order a few more linens than you need. Accidents like spills can happen, so extras ensure you’re prepared for the unexpected.
4. Confirm Sizing: Measure tables accurately to order linens in the right size. Decide if you prefer linens that reach the floor or stop a few inches above it, as both styles can influence costs.

Choosing A Rental Company

1. Venue Recommendations: Some wedding venues offer linen rentals as part of their package or can recommend trusted vendors. If your venue includes linens, consider asking to view them beforehand to check if they meet your standards.
2. Reliability and Reviews: Seek recommendations from your wedding planner, florist, or recently married friends. Read online reviews to ensure the company is reputable and reliable.
3. Booking in Advance: Wedding rentals can be booked months in advance. To ensure availability, aim to reserve linens at least 4-6 months before your wedding date.
4. Delivery and Pickup Policies: Confirm the company’s delivery, setup, and pickup policies. Some companies may charge extra for delivery, while others include it in the rental fee. Also, inquire about their procedure if linens arrive damaged.

Budgeting For Rental Linens

1. Account for Extra Fees: Some companies require a minimum order for delivery or charge a deposit. Be clear on all associated costs before signing a rental agreement.
2. Insurance for Damage: If you expect your event to be hard on the linens, especially for outdoor events, consider purchasing insurance to cover any damage fees.

Tips for Cost-Saving on Wedding Linens

Whether you rent or buy, a few strategic steps can help you stay within budget.

Budget-Friendly Tips For Buying Linens

• Buy and Resell: After your wedding, sell the linens online. This approach allows you to recover part of your initial costs.
• Consider Used Linens: Some couples purchase gently used linens to save money. Online marketplaces offer a variety of options at a fraction of retail prices.
• DIY Table Runners or Overlays: Simple sewing projects, like table runners, can be created with inexpensive fabric, adding a personal touch to your decor without much extra cost.

Smart Rental Strategies

• Use Venue-Provided Linens: If your venue offers linens, they may be included in your package. Check the quality, and if you’re satisfied, you can avoid the additional expense of renting.
• Select Simple Linens for Cost Savings: If you’re on a budget, choosing simpler linens in a neutral colour can help reduce rental costs. Reserve more elaborate fabrics and decorations for focal points, like the head table.

Conclusion

Wedding linens are essential for practical use and adding style to the celebration. Renting provides convenience and a wide variety of styles, while buying can offer cost savings and control over quality. Each option has advantages and drawbacks, but with careful planning and consideration of your specific needs, you can make the right choice for your big day.

Whether you rent or buy, plan your linens early and confirm all details with vendors. Your chosen linens will help create an inviting atmosphere and complete the overall look of your wedding, setting the perfect stage for lasting memories.