I had been waiting for the moment when the reality of wedding planning was going to strike me. It struck…hard...about 3 months into our engagement.
When I started the process of wedding planning, everything seemed like rainbows and unicorns and sunshine…it was so fun! I had so much inspiration (and still do), and it seemed like there was an endless list of aspects that I wanted to incorporate into our day.
Then…you get price quotes from vendors. And for me at least, I wanted to just throw up. Mind you, I did realize that the price quotes were going to be extremely high, and most likely much more that I’d be willing to pay for certain things (around $1000 just for ceremony flowers?!?!?! Gasp…), but nevertheless, seeing the numbers on a piece of paper or a computer screen really make the reality sink in.
I’ve said it before; I am a bargain shopper. And, I’d like to think that I’m a pretty creative/crafty person. Therefore, in light of the pricing information, I began my DIY quest. Of course, there are going to be some aspects of the event that I will have to hire someone to complete for me, but here is my hope: I want to DIY certain projects for a portion of the full retail price (I’d like to do it at half price…we’ll see if I can manage that!).
What am I planning to create, you ask? Here is my current list:
*Guestbook
*Ceremony decor
*Table linens (with the help of Grandma Buttons)
*Cocktail hour and reception centerpieces
*Escort cards
*Favors
Obviously, there are more odds and ends that are going to sneak up over the course of planning, but these are the largest items on my list! So, now that I’ve made it public, I am going to have to stick to my guns to deliver on my promise. I know I can accomplish DIY'ing aspects of the wedding, and I will appreciate any helpful links, tips, etc, that you are able to throw my way as I journey through the process. Wish me luck!
How much do you plan to "DIY" for your wedding? What projects are on your list?
I had the same type of realization when I first started planning as well. Some projects I've done REALLY well on, and others maybe DIY wasn't the best route...but overall, it was worth it. Keep track of everything and be sure to do cost break downs and you'll really see your savings!
ReplyDeleteSame thing here! But you know, it's been more fun DIY'ing. I actually hate handing over money to vendors (such as the photographer, I can't get away with not using some vendors, though I wish I could) more than I hate coming up with cool solutions. Like A Bride... Again suggested, keep up with your spending, shop the sale ads every Sunday, sign up for emails at Michaels.com for regular half off coupons, etc. Good luck! :)
ReplyDeleteA agree—cost breakdowns are tremendously helpful. We've been keeping all of our receipts, even for the small stuff. It helps keep things in perspective. You can do it, so good luck!
ReplyDeleteWow! $1000 dollars for ceremony flowers is exactly why we aren't getting ceremony flowers! Good luck with DIY projects and staying within the budget! I have an excel sheet for our budget I'm constantly checking...and even a separate bank account for our wedding $ so I don't accidentally use money that's earmarked for something else. (here by way of Weddingbee as Vegasbaby!)
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