Find ways to cut costs with a little DIY

Weddings are expensive, but that doesn't mean you have to compromise on beauty and elegance to be able to afford it. With a little creativity and some DIY skills, you can create a beautiful wedding on a budget. Here are some tips to help you create a stunning DIY wedding without breaking the bank:

1. Start with a budget

   Before you start planning your DIY wedding, it's important to set a budget. This will help you prioritize your spending and ensure that you don't overspend on any one area. Decide on a total budget and then break it down into categories such as venue, catering, decorations, and flowers. We have a great Google Sheet that can help you stay on budget. Download it here.

2. Choose a venue

   Choosing the right venue is crucial to creating a beautiful DIY wedding. Look for a venue that has a lot of natural beauty such as a garden, park, or beach. These venues can be decorated easily and minimally with DIY decorations and are typically more affordable than traditional wedding venues.

3. DIY decorations

   Creating DIY decorations is a great way to save money and add a personal touch to your wedding. You can create centerpieces with flowers from a local farmer's market or thrift stores. You can also create unique signage with chalkboards or wooden signs, and add some lighting with string lights or candles. If you create your own decorations, be sure to do as much as you can ahead of time, and enlist others to assist on your wedding day. You, your fiance, and both of your families should be enjoying your day, not setting up and tearing down decorations. Hiring a day of coordinator to assist with this is a great idea, and if you’re in the market for wedding day management, say hey! We’d love to help you out!

4. Simplify the menu

   Instead of having a formal sit-down dinner, consider serving a buffet or family-style meal. This will save you money on catering and also create a more relaxed atmosphere. You can also incorporate DIY elements into the menu by creating a signature cocktail or having a dessert table with homemade treats.

5. Keep it simple with the dress

   The wedding dress can be a significant expense, but you can save money by keeping it simple. Consider buying a secondhand dress or renting one. You can also choose a simple dress and accessorize it with a beautiful veil or jewelry.

6. Get creative with photography

   Professional wedding photography can be expensive, but there are ways to get creative with it. Consider hiring a photography student or a freelance photographer. You can also create a photo booth with a backdrop and some props, which will be a fun activity for guests and provide some great photo opportunities.

7. Don't forget the music

   Music is an important element of any wedding, and you can save money by creating your own playlist instead of hiring a DJ or band. Ask your guests for song suggestions and create a playlist that includes a mix of old and new songs.

A DIY wedding doesn't have to be boring or cheap-looking. By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and memorable wedding on a budget. Remember, it's all about personalization and creativity, so have fun with it!