Updated: April 8, 2026
Planning a wedding comes with a long to‑do list, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed before you even get to the fun parts. Adding DIY projects can make things even more stressful, so it helps to know which ones you can handle and which are better left to the pros.
DIY can save money and add personal touches, but Pinterest often makes tough projects look simpler than they are. Cute ideas like mason jars and ribbons may look effortless online, but pulling them off on your wedding day is another story.
With a little planning, DIY can still be a lovely part of your celebration. But before you head to the craft aisle, check out our DIY Wedding Tips so you can create with intention and enjoy the process from beginning to end.
Set Priorities
A good way to avoid stress is to start with your priorities. Photography, videography, invitations, catering, whatever matters most, should have space in your budget and be handled by professionals you trust. Once those pieces are set, it’s much easier to decide which creative projects you actually want to take on and which ones might end up feeling more stressful than fun.
Hire a Planner
At Happily Connected, we wholeheartedly encourage hiring a wedding planner! While it might seem like an extra expense, their expertise can help you save money by helping manage your budget, uncovering discounts, and easing stress. If a full planner isn’t an option, a day-of coordinator can be a fantastic alternative, ensuring that all your plans come together smoothly so you can fully enjoy your special day!
Create A Vision Board and Make the Project Your Own
Create a vision board by pinning things you love on Pinterest. Rather than copying projects exactly, put your own unique spin on them. While DIY projects can save money, they also give you the opportunity to personalize your day for yourself and your partner. Check out our Pinterest boards for great inspiration from local Nashville area wedding vendors.
Know Your Strengths
Doing it yourself can be a great way to save money and add a personal touch to your special day! But if you aren’t good at it, the project can end up costing a lot of money, and you still may need to hire a professional.
Pinterest & Instagram are great for inspiration, but not everything you see is as easy to do as it looks. When taking the DIY route, be sure to take on tasks you are good at! For instance, you might think creating your invitations and other paper details can save you money; however, if you can’t even draw a stick man, you might want to reconsider and hire a professional. However, if you create amazing jewelry and decide to make gifts for your bridesmaids and Moms, you could not only save money but also give them a memorable keepsake.
Shop Around & Compare
If you’re considering creating your own centerpieces, décor, and tableware, start by obtaining quotes from professionals. Next, explore vintage, antique, or flea markets for additional options. Afterward, compare the costs to see if it’s more economical to buy supplies and do it yourself (DIY) or to rent them.
Before making any purchases, ask yourself a few important questions: Will these items work in our home after the event? Can I sell them afterward? Do I want to deal with the hassle of storing or disposing of them? For example, while buying your own tableware may initially seem like a great idea, consider what you will do with 100 place settings of vintage China after the wedding.
Double Duty
Repurposing items is another great way to save on your budget. For instance, if you want candles down the aisle at your ceremony, repurpose them as centerpieces on your reception tables. Bridesmaids’ bouquets are another awesome detail of your day that can be repurposed. Talk with your florist about how to repurpose them in vases for centerpieces. We love how this couple used their ceremony backdrop for the backdrop of their sweetheart table at the reception.
Something Borrowed
Check with family and friends who recently got married and see if they are willing to let you borrow items from their wedding.
Start Early
When doing DIY projects, be sure to start early so the projects are finished at least 1 month before the wedding. The last thing you want to be doing is finishing a project the night before your Big Day!
Have Fun & Enlist Help
DIY projects can be fun, but they can also add extra stress. Instead of tackling the projects alone, ask friends and family for help.
If you choose to take the DIY approach, remember to have fun and keep these DIY wedding tips in mind. Create what you love, hire help where it’s needed, and enjoy crafting a day that feels uniquely yours.
