DIY Cake Plateaus for special cakes

Hi There, first of all I would like to introduce myself. My name is Debbie/Deb (answer to either one) and I am a self taught cake decorator that started at the age of 11. Over the years I have gone on to teach cake decorating for the United Way at a place called Girls, Inc. and I am an approved Wilton Cake Decorating Instructor. I am always looking to learn new things, as well as share whatever knowledge I have that could help someone else. I am wondering though, if anyone out there has made their own fancy/elegant cake plateaus for special cakes such as a wedding cake or an over the top birthday cake. Rather than spending upwards of $200 for the pretty metal ones that are beautiful and add height to a cake, I am looking to have the same effect but not have to worry if I will get it back. In other words something just as nice that I don’t have to chase down after the cake has been cut and the event is over. Thanks for any advice and tips.