DIY Wedding Cost Breakdown
Full guide at https://www.expensebot.ai/blog/diy-wedding-cost-breakdown
DIY projects by ROI:
High ROI (do these):
- Invitations & paper goods: Save $200–$600, ~5–10 hrs. Canva + online print service.
- Decor & centerpieces: Save $500–$2,000, ~15–30 hrs. Rent vessels, use greenery + candles + a few focal flowers.
Medium ROI (consider carefully):
- Florals (bridesmaid bouquets, boutonnieres): Save $300–$1,500, ~20–40 hrs. Works for simple arrangements; skip the bridal bouquet unless you're skilled.
Low ROI (avoid):
- Food / catering: Apparent savings shrink after equipment rental, food spoilage, logistics. Family members spend the reception in the kitchen.
Never DIY:
- Photography: The permanent record of your day. Hire a professional whose full wedding galleries you love.
- Legal documents: Marriage licenses, permits, venue contract review.
- Alcohol service: Host liability exposure. Use licensed bartenders or a beer-and-wine-only format.
Watch out for craft store creep: Individual purchases seem cheap but accumulate. Make a complete supply list before the first store visit. If your DIY supply list exceeds 60% of the vendor quote, hire the vendor.
Track both DIY supply receipts and vendor invoices in one place with ExpenseBot to get a real ROI picture.