DIY WEDDING EDITION: CRAFTING YOUR DREAM DAY
In the landscape of modern weddings, the DIY approach has gained significant traction among couples looking to add a personal touch to their special day while also managing their budget. From handmade invitations to personalised ceremony arches, the possibilities for DIY elements are endless. Below, we explore various aspects of a DIY wedding, including invitations, ceremony arch, bouquets, wedding cake, and more, providing you with inspiration and practical tips to bring your vision to life.
DIY Wedding Invitations
Creating your wedding invitations is a wonderful way to set the tone for your event and offer guests a sneak peek into the theme of your wedding. Start by selecting a design that reflects your wedding style—be it rustic, elegant, or whimsical. Utilise online design platforms like Canva that offer customisable templates, making it easy to incorporate your colour scheme and personal details. For a truly handmade touch, consider adding elements like pressed flowers, ribbons, or a wax seal. Remember, your invitations are the first impression of your wedding, so ensure they resonate with the ambiance you wish to create.
Crafting a Personalised Ceremony Arch
The ceremony arch is a focal point of your nuptials, framing the moment you say “I do.” Building your arch allows you to tailor every detail to match your aesthetic. For a rustic look, gather natural wood or bamboo to construct the frame. Alternatively, purchase a modern frame like these from Koch and Co. Adorn your arch with elements that complement your theme—flowing fabrics, lush greenery, and blooms that echo your bouquet can transform the structure into a stunning backdrop. Don’t be afraid to experiment with unconventional materials like macramé or repurposed items to create a unique piece that tells your story.
When it comes to the cost of a DIY arch, it may not work out much cheaper than hiring through a reputable supplier. However, it does give you the option to sell on after your wedding, or repurpose for future events.
Handmade Wedding Bouquets
A DIY bouquet adds a deeply personal touch to your wedding ensemble. Crafting bouquets for yourself and your bridal party can be a fun pre-wedding activity, too, turning the process into a cherished memory. If you’re keen to DIY your bouquet/s, a trip to the flower market (fresh or dried) is in store.
- Begin by choosing flowers that hold special meaning or fit your wedding palette. You’ll need to be flexible pending availability. Consider mixing textures and sizes for depth, incorporating filler greens for volume.
- Trim the stems and arrange the flowers in your hand, rotating the bouquet as you add more flowers to achieve a balanced and pleasing composition.
- Secure the bouquet with floral tape, covering it with decorative ribbon or fabric that complements the wedding attire.
- Add any final embellishments, such as pearls or lace, for a personalised touch.
Don’t be fooled! Florists have a knack for making beautiful bouquets look simple to DIY. In reality, there is a really good reason why florists are experts in their craft. Years of training go into the right selection of florals, seasonality, composition, structure, and how to best keep them fresh. If you’re after something specific, or aren’t confident in your DIY ability, it’s best to leave this to the professionals.
The Homemade Wedding Cake
Baking your wedding cake is a bold, yet incredibly personal choice. Start with a tried-and-tested recipe, keeping in mind the scale and design you envision. Practice decorating techniques well in advance, experimenting with fondant, buttercream, or fresh flowers for adornment. Remember, a homemade cake carries the charm of imperfection, so embrace any quirks as part of your wedding’s unique narrative. For those less confident in their baking skills, consider a “faux” tier for decoration (often made from polysterene), with sheet cakes in the kitchen ready to serve.
- To make a wedding cake, start by choosing your preferred flavors and baking the cake layers in advance, allowing them to cool completely before assembly.
- Prepare a sturdy frosting, such as buttercream or fondant, for layering and covering the cake, ensuring a smooth and even surface for decoration.
- Stack the layers using dowels or straws for support in multi-tiered designs, then decorate with piping, edible flowers, or custom toppers to match the wedding theme, practicing patience and creativity throughout the process.
DIY Wedding Centerpieces
Table centerpieces and decor offer a canvas for creativity. Use items that resonate with your personal style—antique books for literary lovers, vintage bottles for a bohemian affair, or handmade candles for a touch of romance. Incorporating DIY elements into your centerpieces not only adds a personal touch but can also be a cost-effective alternative to traditional floral arrangements.
Handcrafted Signage
Handcrafted signs guide your guests while adding to your wedding’s aesthetic. Use chalkboards, mirrors, or acrylic sheets as your base, adding hand-painted or calligraphed messages. From welcoming guests to labelling food and directing traffic, DIY signs can be both functional and decorative.
Wedding Bonbonniere
Whilst bonbonniere is on its way out of most weddings, it is a simple way to add your own touch. Homemade jams, seed packets, or personalised keepsakes are thoughtful gestures that reflect your gratitude to your guests. Consider your skills and interests when choosing an item to ensure it’s both manageable and meaningful.
DIY Photo Booth
Create a DIY photo booth with a backdrop that matches your wedding theme, using fabrics, fairy lights, or a floral wall. Provide props and a Polaroid camera for instant memories, or set up a tripod with a digital camera for a modern twist. This interactive element not only entertains guests but also captures candid moments of your celebration.
We’ve loved seeing DIY Booths set up at Factory51 over the years. Some couples choose to use our exposed brick or barn doors as a rustic backdrop for their snaps. Others set up in our alfresco area, which adjoins The Workshop function space. Whatever your preference, we can find a space suitable for you!
Final Thoughts on Do It Yourself Weddings
A DIY wedding is a labour of love, imbuing your celebration with personal touches that reflect your journey as a couple. While taking on DIY projects for your wedding, it’s important to balance ambition with practicality—consider your time, skills, and resources. Delegate tasks to friends and family, turning the preparation into a communal experience that builds anticipation for the big day.
At Factory51, we give couples access on the day to set up any items of their choosing. We recommend appointing someone – or a team of helpers – to do this for you, so that you can sit back and relax (likely in a hair and makeup chair!). Alternatively, ask about pricing for our team to set up for you. Contact us today to discuss how we can support your DIY dreams.