What Not to DIY for Your Wedding

Why Some Things Are Best Left to the Pros

When planning your wedding, it’s tempting to take the DIY route—especially with so many creative ideas on Pinterest and TikTok. But when it comes to the big day, certain details should absolutely be left to the professionals. After all, this is one of the most meaningful, memorable days of your life. The last thing you want is to feel overwhelmed, disappointed, or regretful because a DIY project didn’t go as planned.

Here’s a breakdown of what not to DIY—and why it’s worth investing in the pros:

Wedding cake failure

Photography & Videography

We’ve all got a family member who loves taking pictures—but your wedding isn’t the place for amateur photography. Capturing the emotion, lighting, timing, and important moments takes training, experience, and high-end equipment. Let Uncle Joey enjoy the day with you while a professional ensures your memories are beautifully preserved.

Wedding Cake & Catering

Making a cake for a birthday party is one thing. Creating a stunning, multi-tiered wedding cake—or feeding 150 guests a multi-course meal—is quite another. Wedding bakers and caterers are not just good cooks; they’re experts in timing, presentation, and execution under pressure. Treat your guests—and yourself—to quality you can trust.

Floral Design

Liking fresh flowers doesn’t make you a florist. Sourcing, designing, transporting, and keeping flowers fresh until your ceremony takes serious skill. Wedding florists know how to build breathtaking arrangements that hold up all day and photograph beautifully. This is not the place to wing it.

Wacky DJ

Music & Entertainment

Crafting Spotify playlists is fun, but it doesn’t make you a wedding DJ. Professionals read the crowd, handle equipment, navigate last-minute changes, and keep the energy going all night. Whether you hire a DJ, live band, or ceremony ensemble, this is one investment that makes a huge difference in the guest experience.

Fashion Alterations

Even if you’re handy with a sewing machine, wedding-day attire is not the time to experiment. A trained tailor knows how to handle intricate fabrics, silhouettes, and last-minute fittings. Leave the alterations for your dress, suit, or tux to a seasoned professional.

Bad decor

Hair & Makeup

Doing your own makeup for a night out is one thing. But for your wedding, you want a look that lasts, photographs flawlessly, and holds up under happy tears, hugs, and hours of celebration. Hair and makeup artists understand lighting, camera-readiness, and how to help you feel your absolute best.

Final Thoughts: Know When to Step Back

When deciding what to DIY, ask yourself:

• Does this require professional-grade equipment or skills?

• Is this something I can pull off without stress during the final days before the wedding?

• If it doesn’t go perfectly, will it impact the entire event?

In the final month before your wedding, you’ll already be juggling countless details. Don’t let DIY regrets be one of them. Hire the pros where it counts—and give yourself the freedom to be fully present on your big day.