6 Things you should Never DIY for your Wedding

There is a defining question to deciding whether or not to have a DIY wedding. Ask yourself, can it be done months in advance or is it something that happens on the day of or right before your event? In some cases, it can save you a lot of money and quite frankly, you may just be the crafty kind that considers it fun. Let’s face it, certain elements of your Big Day are simply too stressful and too much to take on at the last minute. Homemade gifts, favors, and décor can add a personal touch and can be made and assembled months in advance. Still wanting a DIY wedding? This list may have you calling the professionals for those details that come together right before your event. This will ensure you enjoy your special day and save you a whole lot of stress!

1. Hair and Makeup HAMU

Most of us know how to do our own hair and makeup quite well, thanks to YouTube. For your wedding day, I highly suggest you book a professional as soon as you have your wedding date. This will ensure that you look your best for photographs and who doesn’t want to feel pampered on your special day?

Kelly Campbell Valente, owner of Make Me Blush Makeup Artistry, is one of the best in the business and has the sweetest personality with the right amount of humor to add a perfect blend of fun and relaxation. Kelly says “Your bridal look should consider photography as well as your ‘day of’ look, as equally important. If you have someone else using your products, it will still have a different look and feel.  Also, a trial run can eliminate stress and don’t be afraid to try something new during this appointment….you might surprise yourself. Just getting that full focus on you for your event is important in the chaos of the day.” Kelly makes sure all of her brides look her in the eye and say “that is exactly how I wanted to look.” She won’t leave until they do!  She has a way of calming your nerves and feeling like a million bucks!

2. Flowers

Florals are one of those elements that has to be arranged a day or two before and best left to a professional. By all means, shop around for a florist you can trust and one that adds value. That means one who can see your vision and line it up with your floral budget. If flowers aren’t important to you, use greenery to soften the hard lines of tables, etc. This also saves money and allows you to only use flowers on focal points like the alter for the ceremony, bouquets, and main design element at the reception.

3. The Cake

Much like the flowers, a cake needs to be prepared the day before your event in order to stay fresh and beautiful. Having a baker transport the cake to your venue will be worth leaving this task to a professional. Enjoy your day of pampering and preparation without worrying about the cake

4. Food

Never attempt this one. Hire a caterer. Any more questions? But really, this one is obvious.

5. Invitations

If you have a graphic arts friend, then count yourself lucky. If not, there are so many resources for designing, printing, and addressing your stationery. The invitation is the first impression your guests will have and sets the tone for your wedding style. This also gives your guests a hint at what is appropriate attire for your Big Day. Jessica, who works with Rock Paper Scissors in Franklin, TN, says “most people don’t have access to the many resources as a printer or designer would have.” If you haven’t visited the store, it’s a must! They carry the sweetest gifts, gorgeous paper goods, and also have a balloon bar.

6. The Music

DJ’s usually have more than one role at a wedding ceremony and reception. They can announce the bridal party as well as other events that need to happen on a timeline. If you are looking for a party atmosphere for the dance floor, a DJ may be the obvious choice. On the flip side, live bands can add that level of excitement to your wedding to create unforgettable moments. Today, they cover all genres of music from pop hits to the oldies (or 80’s for today’s generation). If your budget allows, use both or have a singer perform during cocktail hour and DJ for late night dancing. Be sure to check out my blog on Wedding Music for your Ceremony.

Being a part of planning your wedding can be rewarding, assuming you have given yourself ample time to research and organize. Remember to enjoy the process and don’t sweat the small stuff.  At the end of the day, you too will be a “Wifey.”