To DIY or not to DIY; that is the question

By:
Liv Croagh
/
Updated on: April 10, 2025

For some, DIY comes naturally, and for others, it can be a little more difficult.

With weddings being expensive affairs, committing to DIY can be a way to make your vision come alive at a fraction of the cost.

DIY weddings are a growing trend for couples who want to infuse their big day with personal touches, creativity, and meaning, all while keeping costs down. Whether you’re working with a tight budget or simply love the idea of hands-on planning, incorporating DIY elements into your wedding can make the celebration feel uniquely yours. 

Not everything can be DIY though, but there are some that you can pull off and bring to life with your Pinterest board. From handcrafted décor to homemade favours, here are some inspiring ideas to help you create a day that’s as memorable as it is heartfelt.

What can be DIY when it comes to a wedding?

DIY wedding

To DIY or not to, a DIY wedding can save costs but take time. Source: Honey and Hive Designs.

Decor and ambience

DIY décor and ambience can transform your wedding space into something personal, meaningful, and memorable without breaking the bank. While florals are best left to the experts to ensure freshness, design cohesion, and professional arrangement, there are countless other ways to bring your creative vision to life. Think handcrafted signage, candlelit table settings, fairy lights draped across ceilings or trees, and personalised touches like photo displays, custom place cards, or themed table numbers. 

Mason Jar centrepieces

These cute little jars can be used for candles, fairy lights, flowers, coloured water or even little lolly jars. Fill them with whatever suits your aesthetic.

Handmade signage 

From directions to the bar, the menu, the seating chart and welcome signs – quite a lot of signage goes up at weddings. If you’re looking to cut costs of printing and design, you can easily create these yourself. Reclaimed wood or chalkboards make whimsical and fun signage that you’ve created yourself – just make sure you choose someone with legible penmanship!

Paper lanterns

An outdoor wedding with a grand tree can be made into a beautiful nighttime backdrop by the use of paper lanterns. Don’t feel tied down to only using white, different coloured lanterns create a special ambience and set the perfect mood lighting.

Photo display wall

Nothing takes you on a trip down memory lane quite like a photo display wall. Hang twin and use mini clothespins to display photos of your journey together. Put Polaroid cameras on the tables and encourage guests to add to the photo wall.

Table runners

It may not be strictly DIY, but exploring local flea markets or vintage shops can uncover one-of-a-kind treasures to elevate your wedding décor. When it comes to table runners, opting for mismatched or vintage styles adds a charming, whimsical touch. Think delicate lace, soft florals, or classic checks — bringing your collection of unique fabrics allows you to add a signature to your tablescape and make the styling your own.

Personalised menus

Handmade handwritten menus add a unique and personal touch to any wedding celebration. Crafted with care and attention to detail, these menus not only reflect the couple’s style and theme but also create a warm, intimate atmosphere for guests. Each menu becomes a keepsake, showcasing elegant calligraphy or artistic flourishes and adding a beautiful and personalised touch.

Homemade party favours

Jams, relishes, candles, succulents. Homemade party favours are a personalised keepsake that guests can continue to enjoy long after the wedding. This touchpoint will not only save you money but also show off your talents and show your guests your appreciation for them.

Handmade invitations

Whether you’re a wiz on Canva or have a steady hand to write them yourselves, handmade invitations sent in the mail are a deeply warm, personalised and welcoming way to invite your loved ones to your wedding. Although it might be a long process, the thought won’t go unnoticed.

DIY wedding can include menus or invitations. Source: Sebel Creative.

Ultimately, deciding whether to DIY parts of your wedding comes down to your priorities, skills, and the time you’re willing to invest. The projects can be deeply personal as well as a cost-saving activity, but it will require more planning and a sprinkling of patience. You also might have to let go of the concept of ‘perfection’ as DIY leaves a little more room for rustic (and a couple of mistakes!). 

It’s important to know when to take on creative tasks yourself and when to trust professionals — especially for elements that require expertise, like florals, catering, or photography. The perfect balance often lies in mixing both: infuse your day with personal, handmade details where it feels meaningful, and let the pros handle the rest so you can relax and truly enjoy your celebration. At the end of the day, your wedding should reflect your love store – whether it’s DIY, professionally curated, or a beautiful combination of both.

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