By Lauren Kay

1. The space’s chairs are dated, and they don’t fit my color scheme or style.

PHOTO BY SYLVIE GIL PHOTOGRAPHY

The Expert: Krystel Tien of Couture Events in San Diego

The Style Hack: This is an easy fix: Rent ones that complement your wedding style or colors, like classic chiavari chairs or rustic wood benches. "We love to incorporate specialty lounge furniture and beautiful vintage pieces," Tien says. If budget is a concern, select a couple of pieces that will have maximum effect, like king and queen chairs for the sweetheart table. "A few properly placed items can make a huge visual impact," Tien adds.

2. The ballroom carpet is patterned and totally unbearable.

PHOTO BY SAMUEL LIPPKE STUDIOS

The Expert: Brooke Keegan of Brooke Keegan Weddings & Events in Newport Beach, California

The Style Hack: If your budget allows, roll in some new carpet and completely cover the rug. Not in the cards? Keep your guests looking up. "Once you put down the band stage, the dance floor and a dozen tables, you've covered a lot of that carpet," Keegan says. So draw your guests' eyes to focal points around the room, like hanging market lights or a giant floral installation.

3. The venue is large and wide open, and you want an intimate feel.

PHOTO BY KRISTEN TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY

The Expert: Amy Zaroff of Amy Zaroff Events & Design in Minneapolis

The Style Hack: Space is usually a bonus, but if you're after a cozy atmosphere, a big room with high ceilings can present a challenge. "Creating spaces within spaces and points of interest throughout will help keep guests' eyes front and center," Zaroff says. Hang long centerpieces low—just over the table—to bring their gaze down and to create a more romantic feel. Use furniture, flooring and fabric draping to define spaces throughout the venue. Designing vignettes will make it feel smaller and more intimate—and show off your wedding style.

4. The walls are the worst—ugly wallpaper and medieval sconces!

PHOTO BY MCCLANAHAN STUDIO

The Expert: Brian Worley of yourBASH! in Santa Monica, California

The Style Hack: While you can't exactly redecorate, you can shift the focus. "I like to transform a space with what I call 'moving wallpaper'—we use projectors and add moving images to the walls," Worley says. This trick also doubles as a lighting feature, giving the space a unique look. If a dozen projectors aren't in your budget, stick to lighting that masks the design. Uplighting and gobos can transform a space instantly—even old wallpaper can disappear amid a soft, colorful glow.

5. The drapes are patterned, and the venue won’t take them down.

PHOTO BY BRIAN DORSEY STUDIOS

The Expert: Annie Lee of Daughter of Design in New York City

The Style Hack: "Buy yards of simple fabric and pin them over the offending drapes," Lee says. It's a quick fix—no sewing required—and it can really transform the venue. Unlimited budget? Drape the whole space! Coordinate your fabric choices with your table linens, working in a texture or small pattern to keep things fresh and fun.