As someone who has officially “been there, done that,” I know that planning a wedding is no fucking joke. Whether it’s a dreamy elopement on a scenic cliffside or a quirky micro-wedding in your favorite dive bar, it can feel like juggling a million things at once. Add that budget-friendly DIY element, and it might seem like you’re setting yourself on fire a million times. Like I said, bestie, BEEN THERE! DONE THAT! But trust me, it doesn’t have to be that way.
With some clever planning, a little creativity, and a focus on what matters most (spoiler: it’s not the fucking chair covers), you can pull off a meaningful, personal celebration without losing your sanity. Here are my top tips to help you DIY your wedding while keeping your cool.
1. Prioritize Your Spending
Not everything on your wedding day needs to cost a fortune, but one thing you don’t want to skimp on is your photographer. Your wedding photos are the one thing you’ll have long after the day is over—they’re your memories, immortalized. When the vows have been exchanged, the last dance has been danced, and the lights have dimmed on your wedding day, what remains? The cake gets eaten, the flowers wilt, and even the dress—beautiful as it is—finds its way to a box in the attic or the back of your closet. But your wedding photos? They’re forever.
I mean, seriously, think about it: after your wedding, how many people will remember what kind of charger plates you used or how many tiers your cake had? But your photos? They’ll hang on your walls, fill your albums, and become the centerpiece of stories you’ll tell for years to come.
They’ll be what you share with friends who couldn’t make it, what you flip through on anniversaries, and what you pass down to future generations. They’ll remind you of how your love felt in that moment, no matter how much time has passed.
While you might think about cutting costs on decor or attire, investing in a photographer who gets your vibe and can capture your love story authentically should seriously be non-negotiable. Whether you’re exchanging vows under a waterfall or in a backyard full of string lights, your photographer is the person who’ll make sure you can relive those moments forever. It doesn’t even have to be me! I just don’t want you regretting letting your 15 year old cousin with a camera do it for free. Buuuuut, while we’re on the topic, here ARE all the reasons you should hire me as your day-documenter.
2. Elopements Are the Ultimate DIY Hack
Let’s also point out an elephant in the room: planning a big wedding can be a logistical nightmare. CONCEPT! Why not skip the seating chart and elope somewhere jaw-droppingly beautiful? Stay with me.
Elopements strip away the noise and let you zero in on what truly matters—your connection. No endless seating charts, no debating chicken or fish, no stressing over centerpieces. It’s just you, your partner, and the people (or pets!) you love most. And the best part? You don’t have to compromise on celebrating with your closest crew. ALSO! Elopements don’t have to just be for the two of you—they’re a chance to include your nearest and dearest in a way that feels intimate, meaningful, and totally you.
From heartfelt vows exchanged in a hidden forest glade to laughing with your best friends over champagne at a candlelit dinner, an elopement gives you all the magic of a wedding without the overwhelming pageantry. Imagine walking down a “ceremonial aisle” made of a sandy beach or a quiet mountainside, surrounded by the people who’ve cheered for your love every step of the way. There’s no pressure to impress a distant cousin you haven’t seen since middle school (and why on earth did she bring her lame ass boyfriend??)—just love, connection, and joy.
3. Get Crafty with Flowers
Supporting a local florist is always a great option—after all, they’re magicians at creating stunning arrangements tailored to your vibe. But if you’re on a tight budget or just love a hands-on approach, DIY-ing your bouquet can add an extra layer of charm and personality to your day. For my own elopement, I grabbed a handful of fresh flowers, tucked them into a vintage handbag, and called it a day. The result? A perfectly imperfect bouquet that felt uniquely me.
Getting creative with your bouquet doesn’t mean sacrificing style. Scour your local farmers’ market for seasonal blooms, hit up your backyard for some wildflowers, or even forage responsibly in a nearby park (because yes, wild greenery is free magic). Fuck it, pullover if there are some gorgeous ones on the side of the road. Pro tip: Pair big statement blooms like dahlias or sunflowers with wild greenery and smaller filler flowers for an effortlessly gorgeous arrangement. And don’t sweat the symmetry—wild, messy bouquets have a charm all their own, perfectly suited for laid-back, nontraditional celebrations like elopements or micro-weddings.
Your bouquet doesn’t have to be elaborate to be meaningful. The beauty lies in the story behind it, whether it’s crafted with love by a friend, gathered on the morning of your ceremony, or tied together with a scrap of ribbon you’ve saved for years. It’s less about perfection and more about creating something that feels authentically you. Plus, there’s something special about walking down the aisle (or up a mountain trail) holding flowers you picked and arranged with your own two hands.
4. Go Secondhand and Add Character
Hear me out: There’s nothing more rewarding (or eco-friendly) than finding your wedding attire or accessories secondhand. Whether it’s a vintage lace gown that tells its own story, a tailored suit with timeless charm, or quirky decor that turns heads, secondhand treasures have a way of really adding personality and history to your day that brand-new items just can’t replicate. Plus, who doesn’t love the thrill of stumbling upon something truly one-of-a-kind? Bye-bye, cheap Temu neon signs!
Explore thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces like Poshmark, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace for unique finds that fit your vibe. Some of my personal favorite secondhand apps are ThredUp, DePop, and Vestiaire (for realllly cool designer brands). If you’re lucky, you might even find hidden gems in a family closet—a dress your mom wore, a scarf your grandmother treasured, or cufflinks passed down through generations. Incorporating these heirloom touches doesn’t just save money; it weaves personal history into your celebration, making it even more meaningful.
And secondhand isn’t just limited to attire. From vintage candlesticks to funky signage, shopping preloved can help you find decor that feels as unique as your love story. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it’s also a sustainable way to create a wedding day that’s beautiful, personal, and full of charm. Whether it’s a gown with a little wear or a centerpiece with a past life, these details bring a richness to your celebration that feels like it was meant just for you.
5. Keep Your Guest List Small
Again, do you REALLY want your second cousin there with her lame ass boyfriend? The beauty of an elopement or micro-wedding is that you don’t have to invite everyone you’ve ever met. By keeping your guest list intimate, you can focus on the people who truly matter—whether that’s a few family members, your closest friends, or just the two of you (and maybe your dog).
Smaller gatherings also mean less stress, more flexibility, and the freedom to get married somewhere adventurous, like the Ozarks or downtown Kansas City (my fave spots).
6. Set Realistic DIY Goals
It’s so easy to fall down the Pinterest rabbit hole, scrolling through endless boards and dreaming of handmade everything. But let’s get real: you don’t have to DIY everything for your wedding to feel personal and meaningful. Instead of overwhelming yourself with a dozen projects, focus on one or two that truly resonate with you—things that will make you smile every time you see them. Maybe it’s hand-lettering your vows onto pretty paper, creating a playlist that perfectly sets the mood for your ceremony, or crafting simple yet stunning centerpieces.
Here’s the thing—trying to tackle every DIY project you see online is a fast track to burnout. Between work, wedding planning, and, you know, life, the last thing you need is to stay up until 3 a.m. hot-gluing favors you’ll forget about in five years. By keeping it simple and choosing meaningful projects, you’ll not only enjoy the creative process but also avoid the stress of turning your living room into a craft supply war zone.
Remember, less is often more when it comes to DIY. The beauty of a wedding, especially an elopement or micro-wedding, lies in the love and connection you’re celebrating—not how many Pinterest-worthy details you can squeeze in. So pick those one or two special projects, pour your heart into them, and let the rest be effortless. You’ll thank yourself when you’re soaking in the day instead of scrambling to finish last-minute crafts!
7. Prioritize Comfort (and Fun!)
Your wedding day shouldn’t feel like a performance—it’s a celebration, not a stage production. The goal? To revel in your love story and soak up every moment. Choose attire that feels like you, whether it’s a flowy dress, a sharp suit, or something totally unconventional. Rock shoes you can actually walk (or dance!) in, and create a timeline that’s relaxed, leaving room for spontaneity rather than scrambling to check things off a list.
If you’re eloping in the South or Midwest, keep the local vibe and climate in mind. Think breathable fabrics and wide-brimmed hats if you’re tying the knot in the summer heat. Planning for fall? Layer up with cozy wraps or jackets that still look killer in photos. And don’t forget the terrain—those epic cliffside vows or dreamy field shots might call for footwear that can handle the adventure (yes, boots can totally be wedding-worthy).
Above all, prioritize comfort and ease so you can focus on what matters: saying “I do” to your person. When you feel good, it shows—your photos will radiate joy and authenticity, and your day will feel effortless in all the best ways.
8. Plan for the Unexpected
Rain, wind, or a last-minute location change? No problem. The key to a stress-free DIY wedding is rolling with the punches and embracing the unexpected. Things might not always go as planned, and that’s okay—especially if you’re opting for an outdoor elopement in the unpredictable Midwest. The weather has a mind of its own, and it’s better to be ready to go with the flow than get bogged down by every little hiccup. Whether it’s a sudden gust of wind or a surprise rainstorm, those moments often make for some of the most memorable, authentic photos.
Having a flexible mindset will save you from a ton of headaches and allow you to fully enjoy the moment—because, let’s face it, you’re here to get married, not to stress over things you can’t control. This is where your photographer steps in. Trust them to handle whatever comes your way—they’ve likely seen it all. With years of experience, they know how to turn an unexpected downpour into the kind of cinematic, real-life magic you’ll love. Whether it’s finding shelter, adjusting the lighting, or making use of the surroundings in a completely unique way, your photographer is your secret weapon when it comes to adapting to whatever the day throws at you.
Keep in mind: it’s not about having everything perfect—it’s about having the best time possible, with the people you love, in the way that feels most you. And trust me, the best stories are often made when things don’t go as planned. Let the weather, the spontaneity, and the little surprises shape the day, and your photos will reflect the authentic love and joy you’ll remember for years to come.
9. Involve Your Guests (if You Have Them)
Even if you’re eloping, you might want a handful of loved ones by your side. Assign small tasks to family and friends who want to help, like holding your bouquet, setting up a picnic, or officiating the ceremony. This not only makes everyone feel involved but also adds a personal touch to your day. You don’t need a huge guest list to make it meaningful—just the people who matter most. Maybe your best friend brings the wine or your cousin sets up a cozy little spot for your vows. It’s these small, thoughtful details that make your day even more special.
Keep the vibe relaxed and intimate, and trust your photographer to capture the candid, in-between moments that make your day unforgettable. Those quiet moments of laughter, the loving glances, or the way your partner looks at you when you least expect it—those are the real memories. The kind of photos that make you feel like you’re reliving the day all over again. Your photographer’s job isn’t just to document the day, it’s to immortalize the feelings, the joy, and the magic of your connection in a way that feels as real and raw as the moment itself. So, take a breath, enjoy the company of the people you love, and let your photographer do what they do best: capturing the moments you’ll never want to forget.
10. Build a Timeline That Fits Your Vibe
Whether your day starts with hiking to a mountaintop or sipping coffee in your kitchen, create a timeline that feels natural and relaxed. Plan enough time for getting ready, travel, and, of course, epic photo sessions.
For elopements, a typical timeline might include a sunrise hike, a golden-hour ceremony, and portraits in the glow of the setting sun. Keep things flexible so you can soak in every moment without feeling rushed.
Planning a DIY elopement or micro-wedding doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By focusing on what matters most—your love and your story—you can create a celebration that feels authentic and unforgettable. Whether you’re saying “I do” in a Kansas City dive bar or under the stars in the Ozarks, the key is keeping it simple, personal, and, most importantly, you.
If you’re ready to make your dream day happen and want photos that feel like art and not just snapshots, let’s chat. I’m here to help you craft a day that’s as bold, vibrant, and unapologetically unique as your love.
