21 DIY Seashell Wedding Decor Ideas That Wow

Hey there, beach-loving brides and grooms! If you’re dreaming of a wedding that screams “coastal charm,” you’ve hit the jackpot. Forget the overdone rustic vibes—today, we’re diving into the magical world of seashells. These little ocean treasures can transform your big day into a breezy, elegant affair without breaking the bank. And the best part? You can DIY most of these ideas yourself (or rope in your crafty friends—just promise them cake).

Whether you’re planning a full-blown beach wedding or just want to sprinkle some seaside magic into your decor, I’ve got 25 stunning DIY seashell wedding ideas that’ll make your guests say, “Wow, why didn’t I think of that?” From centerpieces to aisle markers, we’re covering it all. So grab your glue gun, put on your favorite playlist, and let’s get crafting!

1. Seashell Place Cards for a Personal Touch

Why settle for boring paper place cards when you can write your guests’ names on seashells? It’s a small detail, but trust me, it’ll make your tables look effortlessly chic. Use small, flat shells like scallops or cockles, and write names with a gold or silver paint pen for a luxe finish. Pro tip: If your handwriting is as shaky as mine, try a stencil or vinyl decal.

Want to take it up a notch? Pair each shell with a sprig of dried lavender or a tiny starfish. Your guests will totally Instagram these—just saying.

A close-up of a wooden table setting with delicate scallop shells serving as place cards. Each shell has a guest’s name written in elegant gold cursive. A few sprigs of dried lavender and a scattering of sand add texture to the scene. Soft natural light filters through a nearby window, casting gentle shadows.

2. Driftwood and Seashell Aisle Markers

Walking down the aisle is a moment you’ll remember forever, so why not make it extra special with some seashell flair? Grab a few pieces of driftwood (or faux driftwood from the craft store—no judgment here) and hot-glue clusters of shells onto them. Place them along the aisle or use them to mark the front row for VIP seating.

Mix different shell sizes and types for visual interest—think conch shells, sand dollars, and maybe a few pearls for glam. Bonus: These double as gorgeous keepsakes after the wedding.

A sandy aisle lined with rustic driftwood pieces adorned with clusters of seashells. The shells vary in size and type, with some painted in soft pastels. The ocean glimmers in the background, and a sheer white fabric drapes gently over the driftwood.

3. Hanging Seashell Chandelier

Okay, this one’s for the ambitious crafters. A seashell chandelier might sound intimidating, but it’s easier than you think! Start with a wire hoop or an old embroidery hoop, then string shells of different sizes using fishing line. Hang them at varying lengths for a cascading effect.

This works beautifully over your sweetheart table or even as a ceremony backdrop. Just make sure it’s secure—no one wants a shell shower mid-vows.

A breathtaking DIY chandelier made of dozens of iridescent seashells suspended at different lengths from a circular wire frame. The shells catch the light, casting delicate reflections on a wooden reception table below. The background is softly blurred, with fairy lights twinkling in the distance.

4. Seashell-Embellished Table Runners

Table runners are a blank canvas waiting for some seashell magic. Lay down a burlap or linen runner, then arrange a mix of shells, starfish, and dried coral down the center. For a more polished look, glue the shells in a symmetrical pattern or spell out your initials.

If you’re feeling extra, add tea lights in glass jars filled with sand. Instant romantic ambiance—no sunset required (though it wouldn’t hurt).

A long wooden reception table with a natural linen runner down the center. A carefully arranged mix of seashells, starfish, and tiny sand-filled jars with flickering tea lights create a dreamy tablescape. The soft glow of the candles contrasts with the rough texture of the shells.

5. Seashell Bouquet Accents

Who says bouquets have to be all flowers? Tuck a few small shells or pearls into your floral arrangement for a subtle coastal vibe. You can wire them onto stems or nestle them between the blooms. I used tiny conch shells in my cousin’s bouquet, and they looked like they’d washed ashore naturally.

For a bolder look, go all-in with a seashell bouquet. Yes, it’s a thing—and it’s stunning. Just be prepared for everyone asking, “How did you do that?!”

A close-up of a bridal bouquet featuring white peonies and eucalyptus, with small pearlescent seashells woven throughout. The shells catch the light, adding a subtle shimmer. The bride’s hands, adorned with a delicate pearl bracelet, cradle the bouquet against a flowing ivory dress.

6. Seashell Cake Topper

Your cake deserves some love too! Skip the traditional bride-and-groom topper and opt for a cluster of shells instead. Use edible gold leaf or food-safe paint to add a touch of glam. Or, if you’re not into DIY-ing your cake decor, ask your baker to pipe shell-inspired designs onto the frosting.

Pro tip: Save a few shells from your cake to display at home later. Every time you see them, you’ll remember how delicious that cake was (and how perfect your day was, obviously).

A three-tiered white wedding cake adorned with a delicate arrangement of real and sugar seashells. Some shells are dusted with edible gold, while others are left natural. The cake sits on a weathered wooden table with a glimpse of the ocean in the background.

7. Seashell Garland for Archways

Whether you’re saying “I do” under an arch or just want to dress up your reception space, a seashell garland is a game-changer. String shells onto twine or ribbon, alternating with beads or dried flowers for texture. Drape it over your arch, along the head table, or even around the dance floor.

This is one of those projects that looks way more expensive than it is. Your guests will never guess you made it while binge-watching your favorite show.

A rustic wooden wedding arch draped with a long, delicate garland made of assorted seashells and ivory beads. The garland sways slightly in the ocean breeze, and the setting sun casts a golden glow over the entire scene. A few loose shells are scattered at the base of the arch.

8. Seashell Ring Holder

Here’s a genius idea: Use a large, flat shell as a ring holder during the ceremony. Not only does it look gorgeous, but it’s also a sweet nod to the beach—even if you’re miles inland. Choose a shell with a natural groove to keep the rings secure (because losing them in the sand would be a nightmare).

After the wedding, you can display it in your home as a keepsake. Every time you see it, you’ll smile remembering the moment you said, “I do.”

A close-up of a smooth, pearly abalone shell resting on a bed of soft sand. Two wedding bands—one delicate and one bold—sit nestled in the shell’s natural curves. The sunlight catches the metallic sheen of the rings, creating a warm, romantic glow.

9. Seashell Confetti

Skip the paper confetti (and the cleanup) and toss tiny shells instead! You can buy bags of mini shells online or collect them yourself if you live near the coast. Fill small muslin bags for guests to throw as you walk back down the aisle, or sprinkle them on tables for a subtle beachy touch.

FYI, this is also a great way to keep kids entertained—just give them a handful and let them “decorate” their seats. You’re welcome.

A joyful bride and groom walking hand in hand as guests toss handfuls of tiny, iridescent seashells into the air. The shells glint in the sunlight, and the couple laughs as they make their way down a sandy aisle lined with smiling faces.

10. Seashell Centerpieces with Floating Candles

Centerpieces don’t have to be complicated to make a statement. Fill clear glass vases or bowls with sand, shells, and water, then add a floating candle on top. The flickering light reflecting off the water and shells is pure magic—especially as the sun sets.

Mix and match vase sizes for visual interest, and add a few sprigs of greenery if you want to soften the look. Simple, stunning, and seriously easy.

A round wooden table with three glass vases of varying heights, each filled with water, sand, and assorted seashells. Floating candles drift on the surface, their flames casting a warm glow. A few scattered shells and a sprig of eucalyptus complete the look.

11. Seashell-Embellished Menus

Take your menus from basic to breathtaking by attaching a small shell to each one. Use a dab of glue to secure a shell to the corner or tie it on with twine. For an extra touch, write the menu on parchment paper and roll it up like a scroll—your guests will feel like they’ve uncovered pirate treasure.

This is such an easy way to tie your theme together without going overboard (pun totally intended).

A rustic wooden table setting featuring a parchment paper menu tied with twine and adorned with a small, pearly seashell. A few loose shells and a sprig of dried lavender sit beside it, and a soft linen napkin completes the look. The natural light highlights the texture of the paper and shells.

12. Seashell Boutonnieres

Grooms and groomsmen deserve some seashell love too! Skip the standard floral boutonnieres and opt for mini shells, starfish, or even a tiny piece of coral. Wire them together with greenery or wrap them in twine for a rustic touch.

These are surprisingly durable—perfect for guys who might, ahem, forget they’re wearing them and accidentally sit on a shell. Not that I’ve seen that happen or anything.

A close-up of a groom’s lapel adorned with a unique boutonniere made of a small starfish, a sprig of sage, and a tiny pearl, all secured with twine. The groom’s hand rests on his chest, showing off the detail against a crisp navy suit. The background is softly blurred, with hints of ocean waves.

13. Seashell Photo Backdrop

Give your guests the perfect Instagram spot with a seashell photo backdrop. Hang a large fishing net or macramé piece and adorn it with shells, starfish, and fairy lights. Add a driftwood frame or a cute sign like “Love You Shell Yeah” (because cheesy puns are mandatory at weddings).

This doubles as a fun activity—set out a polaroid camera and let guests snap pics throughout the night. You’ll thank me when you see the hilarious results.

A whimsical photo backdrop made of a large fishing net adorned with clusters of seashells, starfish, and twinkling fairy lights. A driftwood frame surrounds the net, and a hand-painted sign reading “Love You Shell Yeah” hangs at the top. A couple poses in front of it, laughing as they hold up a polaroid.

14. Seashell Escort Cards with a Twist

Instead of just writing names on shells, why not use them to guide guests to their seats in a creative way? Attach each shell to a mini bottle with a note inside, like a message in a bottle. Or, write table numbers on the shells and display them in a large glass bowl filled with sand.

This is such a fun way to kick off the celebration—your guests will be raving about it before they even sit down.

A wooden escort card table featuring a large glass bowl filled with sand and dozens of small seashells, each painted with a table number. A few mini glass bottles with rolled-up notes peek out from the sand, and a rustic sign reads “Find Your Shell.” The sunlight filters through the bottles, casting tiny rainbows.

15. Seashell Napkin Rings

Elevate your table settings with DIY seashell napkin rings. Use small, flexible shells like scallops or clams, and glue them into a ring shape. Slip a linen napkin through, and voilà—instant elegance. For a boho touch, wrap the napkin with twine and tuck in a sprig of dried lavender.

These are so easy to make in bulk, and they’ll make even the simplest table look thoughtfully designed.

A crisp white linen napkin folded neatly and secured with a delicate scallop shell napkin ring. A sprig of lavender and a tiny pearl are tucked into the twine wrapping, adding a touch of romance. The napkin rests on a weathered wooden table with a glimpse of the ocean beyond.

16. Seashell Candle Holders

Turn shells into stunning candle holders by filling them with melted wax or placing tea lights inside. Larger shells like conchs or abalones work best for this. Arrange them down the center of your tables or line them along the aisle for a dreamy glow.

Just make sure to test them beforehand—some shells can get hot, and nobody wants a wax disaster on their big day.

A row of large conch shells, each holding a flickering tea light, lining a wooden reception table. The candlelight reflects off the pearlescent interiors of the shells, casting a warm, golden glow. A few scattered petals and smaller shells complete the scene.

17. Seashell Guest Book Alternative

Ditch the traditional guest book and have guests sign a large, beautiful shell instead. Choose a smooth, flat shell like a clam or oyster shell, and set out metallic pens for writing. Display it in your home afterward as a one-of-a-kind keepsake.

For a bigger guest list, use multiple shells and arrange them in a shadow box. It’s a creative way to preserve those sweet messages forever.

A large, pearly oyster shell resting on a bed of sand, with a gold pen beside it. A few handwritten messages from guests are visible on the shell’s smooth surface. The background is softly blurred, with hints of ocean waves and a setting sun.

18. Seashell Hair Accessories

Channel your inner mermaid with seashell hair accessories. Glue small shells onto bobby pins, combs, or a headband for a beachy bridal look. You can even weave them into a braid for a subtle, ethereal vibe.

Bridesmaids can wear smaller versions to tie the whole bridal party together. Just imagine how gorgeous those photos will look with the ocean breeze catching everyone’s hair!

A bride’s flowing, beachy waves adorned with delicate seashell hairpins. The shells glint in the sunlight, and a few are nestled into a loose braid. The ocean stretches out behind her, with waves gently crashing in the distance.

19. Seashell Drink Stirrers

Upgrade your cocktail game with seashell drink stirrers. Attach small shells to skewers or straws with glue, and use them to garnish signature drinks. Try pairing them with a tropical cocktail like a piña colada or a mojito—because nothing says “beach wedding” like a drink with a tiny umbrella AND a shell.

Pro tip: Write guests’ names on the shells to double as drink markers. No more lost cocktails!

A refreshing mojito in a tall glass, garnished with a mint sprig and a seashell drink stirrer. The shell is attached to a bamboo skewer, and the condensation on the glass catches the light. The background features a wooden bar with other tropical drinks lined up.

20. Seashell Table Numbers

Forget boring paper table numbers—paint them onto shells instead! Use large, flat shells like scallops or clams, and write the numbers in elegant script. Place them in small stands or nestle them into sand-filled jars for a cohesive look.

This is such an easy way to add a personal touch to your tables, and guests will love the creativity.

A wooden table with a sand-filled jar holding a large scallop shell painted with the number “5” in gold script. A few smaller shells and a tea light surround it, creating a warm, inviting tablescape. The background is softly blurred, with hints of other decorated tables.

21. Seashell Cake Stand

Display your dessert in style with a DIY seashell cake stand. Stack cake stands of varying sizes and glue shells around the edges for a beachy twist. Or, for a simpler approach, place a cake on a large, flat shell like a giant clam shell (yes, they sell those online).

This is a showstopper detail that’ll have everyone talking. And let’s be real, anything that makes the cake look even more amazing is a win in my book.