Wedding Planning: What Should I DIY?

There are definitely certain wedding planning projects that can – and in some cases, should, be DIY’d. And others that absolutely should NOT be DIY’d. Here’s a short guide to what to DIY and what to leave to the professionals…

While some brides can’t wait to get creative with their wedding, others would rather not be occupied with wedding details – and both scenarios are ok. But if you are looking to take on some of the work yourself when wedding planning, and aren’t sure if you should, the Huffingtonpost.com article linked below goes through a few items to consider leaving to professionals.

If you follow this site, then you know that the Real Brides articles tell us about the good, the bad, and the ugly of planning weddings, and often times brides mention decisions that are regrets in hindsight. I cannot tell you enough times about the unfortunate stories I’ve heard. Be mindful that you get what you pay for, and if it sounds too good to be true (or, too easy to be true) then it probably is.

The number one biggest regret I hear most often? “I wish I would have hired a professional photographer.” Yes, it’s true that a good photographer will cost quite a bit, but their work is so worth it. Having amazing, classy photos from your day is priceless. Save up for a professional photographer! Even though cousin Jeff told you he’s got a great camera and will take your wedding photos, this is a decision you will regret. Cousin Jeff might save you some dough, but at what cost?

Wedding decor – such as escort cards, and centerpieces, are fairly easy tasks to complete on your own or with some assistance from friends and family. And, unless you have a baker in the family, you’ll want a professional to take care of the cake/ dessert. Here’s another tip: Even hair and makeup artists will hire hair and makeup artists for their wedding day. I almost fell into the trap of thinking that I could do my own hair for my wedding. After all, I know my hair better than anyone else, right? But after learning the tip above from a stylist at someone else’s wedding, I hired a stylist for the job. I glad I did just for the sake of not having to worry about my hair at all on the wedding day. There are so many other details that you’ll want to focus on, and adding one more thing to the ‘to-do’ list is just not worth it.

There are some wedding tasks that can be “mostly” DIY’d… meaning that you should rent the materials needed, but you may be able to save money by setting up/ tearing down yourself (think: tables, chairs, lighting, florals). Another “mostly” DIY task is invitations and save-the-date’s. Using an online template and printing service like Zazzle or Minted is still going to be some design work and labor for you, but the products are nice and still custom-made to suit you.