Say Yes on a Budget: A Guide to the Best Wedding DIYs
Nothing is more magical than saying “I do” to your partner on your wedding day. From walking down the aisle to sharing the first dance, weddings are one of life’s biggest celebrations. It seems as if nothing could possibly sour this day…that is, until you think about the price tag. Event centers, clothing, flyers, music, pictures, and more quickly rack up the bills, leaving couples overwhelmed with all that they need to pay for in order to accomplish the big day.
What if we told you that it doesn’t have to be expensive? The massive price tags can be reduced without sacrificing style or personality. Whether you’re looking for a backyard bash or a small, intimate gathering, cutting costs with creative DIY projects not only saves you money but adds a personal touch that you and your guests will remember for years to come. Planning your big day? Try these wedding ideas on a budget.
Decorations With Meaning
1. Build Your Own Backdrop
The wedding arch or backdrop is essential for the ceremony, and any pictures taken afterwards. You can save costs by building your own with things like copper pipes, wooden frames, or even PVC as a base. Head over to your local fabric store to decorate the arch with fabric, faux greenery, or string lights for a ceremony that feels custom, without the high rental costs.
2. Repurpose Bottles
By repurposing mason jars, bottles, or tin cans, you can create beautiful vases, candle holders, or even hanging lanterns. A little paint, twine, or even lace goes a long way. Best of all, most of these can be found for free or super cheap.
3. Signage
Custom printing fees can be outrageous; however, signs are needed to direct guests, label food, or even write about your own love story. Save money by utilizing chalkboards, mirrors, or wood slices. Use markers to write the necessary information. It doesn’t have to be perfect, just informative! Hang some light streamers around the signs to add some additional pizazz.
Beautiful, But Affordable, Floral Arrangements
1. Bouquets and Centerpieces
Flowers can cost upwards of hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars, depending on which floral shop you go to. It isn’t necessary, however, because grocery store flowers (we’re looking at you, Trader Joe’s!) are affordable, and surprisingly chic. Watch some YouTube videos on bouquet-tying tricks, and soon enough you’ll have everything you need, from centerpieces to bouquets and boutonnieres.
2. Mix Fresh and Faux Florals
Another way to save money is to combine real flowers with high-quality artificial ones. This helps to add volume, but also saves some cash. After all, you won’t be able to tell the difference, and they last forever, so you could keep part of your wedding day at home!
Personalized Touches
1. Guestbooks
Having something for your guests to sign is often essential to a wedding, as it uplifts and inspires the couple with all their loved ones' messages. Think outside the box, though, and try signed Jenga blocks, a Polaroid photo wall, or even a fingerprint tree. This way you can still keep the memories of each individual who attended, keeping the costs low and doubling the decor and keepsakes.
2. Custom Favors
If you’re interested in sending guests home with something special, you can do so by creating custom favors. Homemade candles, mini jars of honey or jam, or potted succulents are not only thoughtful but budget-friendly as well. Add a name tag with your names and wedding date to add a more personalized touch.
Food and Fun
1. Dessert Table
Have your friends or family members bake a cake, cupcakes, cookies, or donuts. Wedding cakes are expensive, and let’s be honest, they aren’t even that tasty. By making your own, you can combine the flavors that you love without breaking the bank.
2. Selfie Station
Wanting a photo booth? Set up a tripod with a phone holder, as well as a simple backdrop. Your guests will love snapping photos, and you will love avoiding photo booth rental prices.
Choosing the Right Venue
One of the smartest ways to stretch your budget is to choose a venue that gives you flexibility and the freedom to DIY—like our property, Carriage Lane Inn in Murfreesboro, TN. Our wedding package contains all that you could possibly need, from catering and silverware to assorted decorations and an officiant, if desired.
There’s plenty of space that fits not only your vision, but also your budget. DIY weddings aren’t just about saving money—they’re about creating a day that’s uniquely yours. Let us help you create your dream wedding, and stay a while in one of our comfortable accommodations—because your celebration deserves more than just one perfect day.
