What Not to DIY for Your Wedding (And Why It’s Worth Hiring a Pro)
- southernbellewedby
- Jul 18
- 3 min read
There’s something romantic about the idea of doing everything yourself. But when it comes to your wedding day, time is precious—and your peace of mind is priceless. Some things are better left to professionals who know how to handle the details and deliver beautiful, reliable results.
In Part Two of this DIY wedding series, I’m sharing the elements you shouldn’t DIY—unless you’re prepared for the extra stress and risk. These are the areas where a little help goes a long way!
Wedding Planning
Yes, you can plan your own wedding—but should you? If you're feeling overwhelmed, or have no idea where to start, hiring a planner or coordinator can save you time, money, and stress. We help connect you with reliable vendors, create timelines, and manage the day so you can soak in every moment. Planners are more affordable than you may think. Most planners offer a partial planning package or a la carte services that will provide you with much needed help without breaking the bank. Check out my packages and a la carte services, and let's get to planning the wedding of your dreams!
Venue – Backyard Weddings
Backyard weddings sound charming and cost-effective, but the reality is often far more complex. Tents, restrooms, power, seating, catering logistics—you're essentially building a venue from scratch. If you're not ready to become an event logistics expert, I recommend looking into smaller venues, parks, or historic properties that offer built-in amenities and support.
Photographer
Your wedding photos are how you’ll remember your day for decades. A professional photographer knows how to work in all lighting conditions, capture emotional moments, and deliver polished, high-quality images. While a friend with a nice camera may offer, it’s just not the same. Consider it one of your most important wedding investments.
Videographer
This is often skipped—but most brides regret it. Video captures movement, music, and spoken words in a way photos can’t. If you're short on funds, look for videographers offering highlight reels or ceremony-only coverage. If you must DIY, be realistic about what you'll get (and what you might miss).
Cake
Tiered wedding cakes are a lot trickier than they look. If you love to bake, consider a small, simple dessert table with cookies, brownies, or cupcakes instead. But for anything involving structure, stability, or display time—hire a professional. It’s worth every penny for peace of mind (and delicious results).
Catering
A professional caterer is a must! Really - it’s not just about cooking—it’s about food safety, storage, serving, and cleanup. Feeding 50+ people is not the same as hosting a holiday dinner. There are budget-friendly options out there, from local restaurants to grocery store catering trays. It doesn’t have to be fancy—it just has to be safe and smooth.
Final Thought: DIY can be wonderful—but it’s not always the simpler, cheaper, or more joyful route. Your wedding day should be filled with love, laughter, and ease—not last-minute crises or half-finished projects. Know where to lean on your people, where to trust a pro, and where to let go. That’s how you protect your peace and soak in every beautiful second.
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