Don't get me wrong, I love creative ideas and crafty people! I often hear people express that they are DIY'ing some decor elements during consultations. It is a great way to add some flair and personal touch to your special day. With Pinterest and internet images showcasing unique ideas, anyone can feel their inner "Martha Stewart" calling. Let me give some tips from my own experience if you are thinking of going this route...
DIY saves you $$$$$$$
Not necessarily. Sourcing and purchasing items needed for a project is only the beginning. Factor in gathering the items, assembly and then delivering them to the venue and setting them up the way you envisioned. I suggest you bulk up on supplies in case some get damaged or for the unforeseen mistakes that happen. My advice; make ONE sample. Bring it to your venue in a meeting prior to your event and set it up. You will have good idea of how much money, time and work it will be to properly execute your DIY. Take the Girl Guides motto here and "Be Prepared". You will not have time for surprises on the day of the event!
Friends & Family Staffing Services...
People generally under estimate the time it takes to tackle a DIY project. Do not assume that your Fiancé, Bridal Party or Family will help you out. Ask for support and be grateful to those lending their time and services. Make a schedule and outline times when you want to have a project completed. If you are DIY'ing your centerpieces make sure you have people ready to assemble and properly place your MASTERPIECE on event day. People often make the mistake assuming that they will have time on their wedding day. Between hair, make up and nerves there is little time left for last minute details.
**Please do not forget, at the end of the party, it YOUR responsibility to remove your product that is left over. It is not glamorous to see the Bride schlepping decor at the end of her party. Be sure to have provisions in place!
Sometimes it is better to get the expert to do it than to stress about it. There is a reason why a professional can make it look easy, PRACTICE! If you want a certain amount of detail and do not want to come across as a Bridezilla, ask for help. Yeah, it will cost you, but it is well WORTH it. A professional may offer a different approach or reliable vendors that can make the project simplified. You might just realize you should have gone this route from the start.
BUT, I don't want to negatively portray all DIYs. Some brides & bridesmaids have made AMAZING favors, menus, table numbers, invitations, centerpieces, cakes and candles. I have the privilege of decorating so many Weddings that I appreciate a great DIY. I hope you can take some tips when trying this for yourself. Keep calm & Craft on!
