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DIY Weddings: Handmade Tips and Tricks for A Lovely and Special Day

by Victoria Crowdell

For many people, weddings end up being the happiest day of one’s life. The chance to celebrate a commitment forever in front of friends and family has its supporters and detractors, but the most important part is not necessarily the actual decision to do that, but the party thrown for those who matter. And while plenty of people go all out and spend a ton of cash getting everything from rehearsal dinner goodies to other little tidbits here and there, the fact is that it’s possible for anyone who feels a little bit creative to save a considerable amount of money by just deciding what elements can be handmade, either by the two people getting married or some very kind and thoughtful friends and relatives.

Don’t Bite Off More Than You Can Chew

The first step towards a great handmade wedding is figuring out one’s own skill set and the amount of spare time that can be put towards these types of endeavors. While it might be a great idea for a former fashion design student to start working on a bunch of bridesmaid’s dresses, the fact is that it’s likely going to take more time, more energy, and eventually more money than just choosing a professional to do it instead. So don’t get sucked into a situation where the bride and groom have bitten off more than they can chew!

Handmade Invitations Create a Beautiful First Impression

An easy way to get started on the handmade route is to look at the various ways that invitations can be done these days. Whether it’s heading to the perfect Etsy shop and picking out something screenprinted or letterpressed by an individual artist, or actually making something simple yourself, this is a great way to cut costs and to also make the guests feel a little bit more special, too. After all, it feels considerably more personal to enjoy a handwritten note, so it makes a world of sense to go down that path and make handmade wedding invitations.  If you don’t feel confident enough to do all of the invitations yourself, adding a simple ribbon or self-adhesive pearlescent beads or buttons will give shop-bought invitations that handmade touch.

Homely Comforts

After the invitations, it’s then time to think about all of the other wedding logistics. For those who might have opted for the unconventional location approach to a wedding, meaning an old summer camp or some kind of grassy knoll, it’s worth thinking about the small touches that will make guests feel more at home. Whether it’s bringing furniture from home so people can lounge in the space or simply making sure that there are covered areas in case the sun gets too hot or the rain starts to fall, these tinier details often don’t require an entire wedding planning crew.

Do Them a Favor

It’s always lovely to see what other small touches can be added, from the gift baskets (think handmade items that are also easy to do in big batch, like bottled vanilla extract or baked snacks) to the centerpieces. For someone who is actually quite skilled in these areas, or for those who can enlist friends, it becomes a simple way to get a very complicated job done.  Letting guests take away something that you’ve made yourself is a lovely way to give them a personal reminder of your special day.

About the Author: Victoria Crowdell writes articles on family, home & garden and crafting – her passion is decorative candles.