Every bride-to-be is looking for creative ways to save a few dollars when planning her big day. One way to save money is to make your own props and accessories. These DIY reception table number ideas are quick and easy!

I recently found a stack of silver and silver-plated trays at Goodwill. You can find them in a variety of sizes and shapes. If you plan to use magnets, take one with you. But remember, magnets will not stick to aluminum.

You can certainly use them as is, especially if your wedding is formal, but I decided to paint them with chalk board paint to give them some color. Plus, I also wanted to be able to write on them.

Chalkboard paint comes in a several colors. Choose a color to coordinate with your wedding theme or stick with basic black. Apply it to the flat part of the tray with a sponge brush following the directions on the can.

After the paint dries, glue trim around the edge. Rick-rack works well on a round plate. It lays nice and smooth, no gaps.

It is chalkboard paint and you can use chalk, but I like to use a white pencil when I want to make sure what I write will not easily wipe off. Use easels to stand the number plates at each table.

Or, make a little pouf from tulle and glue it to a name plate. Gather about 12 inches of tulle, tie it together with a piece of ribbon, and attach it to the dish.

The ideas are limitless. You can make a name plate for every guest as party favors!