Do It Yourself Weddings

DIY Weddings can save you a lot of money

Do It Yourself weddings have become very popular especially in the current economic climate. If this is the route you have chosen for your big day, take comfort in the fact you are not alone and the road has been well worn for you. The keys to planning successful DIY weddings are time and organization. As long as you have time for comparison shopping and good organizational skills, you will be able to succeed in making your ideal wedding a reality. Here is a checklist for DIY weddings:

• Wedding Venue – Where will the big event take place? Control over certain aspects of DIY weddings may have to be turned over depending on this choice. To keep a firm grip on the reins and the budget, choose a facility that will allow you to determine the menu, caterer and alcohol options. If you are not marrying in a church, remember to schedule the date with the clergy or civil officiator.
  
  
• Guest list – Although many of us would like the largest attendance possible for the big day, DIY weddings are more manageable with relatively smaller guest lists. Consider the budget, family size and the experience you want the guests to have.
  
  
• Catering – Many successful DIY weddings feature good home cooked food from favorite family members. Some DIY weddings even feature cooking as a part of the entertainment such as hibachi chefs or barbeques. Again, this is where guest list management is important. Compare the guest list to the overall budget and determine how much per person can be spent to help decide what the menu will be.
  
  
• Music / Dancing – Of course there will be dancing! You need to decide whether you want a DJ or live musical performers. Audition performers and DJs by dropping into an event they will be playing. Ask friends for referrals.
  
  
• Invitations – There are so many options available for DIY invitations for DIY weddings. If you have a good printer attached to your computer, all you need is to purchase the paper and envelopes and you can make them yourself. “Save-the-Date” postcards are cost effective and perfect for more casual style DIY weddings.
  
  
• Bridal Party – Do yourself a favor and keep it small. Most DIY weddings keep the number of brides’ maids and groomsmen down to 1 or 2 each. Fittings and gifts can eat up time and money so prioritize the need for participants.

There are excellent resources online that can assist couples in arranging DIY weddings. One good trick to use is setting up a tour and consultation with a full-service venue to just give yourself a good idea of what you need.