Budget-Friendly Floral Tips: What Can Be DIYed?

If you're a bride on a tight budget and eager to DIY your wedding flowers, we fully support your creativity! Just keep in mind that some floral arrangements might benefit from a professional touch—unless, of course, you have some experience in floristry or a talented friend to lend a hand.

What Can Be DIYed

1. Reception Table Flowers

Enhance your reception tables with minimal effort and cost! Whether you choose a few bud vases or a simple centerpiece, these small touches can make a big impact without breaking the bank.

2. Boutonnieres & Corsages

Creating your own boutonnieres and corsages can be a fun, budget-friendly project. There are plenty of online tutorials to guide you through the process. Tip: Consider using preserved or dried flowers to ensure they last throughout the day.

3. Simple Floral Hedges

For an elegant and cost-effective setup, consider using artificial flowers and floral foam to create simple hedges. These can be lined along the aisle or placed at the venue entrance, giving your space a lush, expensive look without the high price tag.

While these floral details may not be the main focus in photos, they subtly enhance the overall ambiance of your wedding, making your special day even more memorable.

What Should NOT be DIYed

As florists, we understand the desire to keep your wedding within budget, and while there are many ways to save on flowers, there are certain elements that I strongly recommend leaving to the professionals. Here’s why some floral arrangements should not be DIYed:

1. Fresh Flowers

Working with fresh flowers requires technique, experience, and proper equipment—like a flower fridge—to keep them in pristine condition. The last thing you want is for your flowers to wilt before you even walk down the aisle. Professional florists know how to handle, hydrate, and arrange fresh flowers to ensure they look their best throughout your big day.

2. Bridal Bouquet

Your bridal bouquet is one of the most photographed floral pieces of your wedding. It should be perfect, not only in appearance but also in structure and durability. Crafting a bouquet that stays fresh, holds its shape, and complements your dress requires skill and an eye for design. It’s worth investing in a professionally made bouquet to ensure it looks stunning in every photo.

3. Large-Scale Installations (Arches, Backdrops, etc.)

Arches, floral backdrops, and other large installations are showstoppers at any wedding, but they’re also complex and technical. Not only can purchasing the materials be costly, but the risk of improper installation is high. A poorly secured arch or backdrop can pose safety risks and may not hold up throughout the event. Florists have the expertise to create secure, beautiful installations that enhance your venue without the stress.

Why Professional Florists Are Worth It

While there are many areas where DIY can save you money, certain floral elements are best left to professionals. The most captured floral items—like your bouquet and large-scale installations—require a level of expertise to ensure they’re flawless and long-lasting. By investing in professional help for these key pieces, you’ll avoid potential mishaps and ensure that your wedding day is as beautiful as you’ve always dreamed.

Remember, your wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and your flowers play a big part in creating the atmosphere you envision. By carefully choosing where to allocate your budget, you can have a stunning wedding without unnecessary stress or expense.