What NOT to DIY or Cut Costs on for Your Wedding: 10 Things Worth the Investment
Because some things are too important to gamble with.
Let’s be real—weddings are expensive. And when Pinterest and TikTok are filled with DIY hacks and budget-saving ideas, it’s easy to feel like you should cut corners. But some elements of your wedding day are too important, too personal, and too complicated to leave to chance.
Here are 10 wedding essentials that are truly worth the investment. These are the things you won’t regret spending money on—because they protect your peace, elevate the experience, and help you create lasting memories.
1. Wedding Flowers
Florals are the first thing your guests see—and one of the most powerful ways to create a cohesive, elevated atmosphere on your wedding day. From the moment your loved ones arrive to the final farewell, flowers set the tone. They tie everything together, echo your style, and breathe life into every space they touch.
But it’s not just about the day itself—your flowers will appear in all of your photos. They’ll be in your bouquet as you walk down the aisle, framing your altar during vows, gracing your reception tables, and adding beauty to every captured moment in between. These images will hang on your walls, fill your albums, and be cherished for generations.
A professional florist doesn’t just put flowers in a vase. They listen carefully, help you select the perfect seasonal blooms, match your color palette, and thoughtfully design arrangements that bring your dream to life. DIY-ing your flowers might sound like a way to save, but it often leads to stress, wilted petals, and rushed results.
Let a pro handle the florals—so your day is breathtaking, your photos timeless, and your only focus is saying “I do.”
Pro Tip: During your consultation, discuss ways to save costs without sacrificing style. Always ask about setup and teardown services.
2. Flower Preservation
Preserving wedding flowers isn’t something to DIY or leave to chance. It’s a delicate, time-sensitive process that requires expert handling, and proper drying techniques. Resin, in particular, is not as simple as pouring a liquid into a mold. There’s a science to it, a precise chemistry that must be followed carefully. Improper mixing or unsafe conditions can lead to cloudy results, cracking, or even health hazards. Resin emits fumes, requires exact temperature control, and needs to be handled with the right protective gear. When done professionally, though, it creates a crystal-clear, glass-like finish that encases your blooms beautifully for years to come.
Without professional care, blooms wilt, brown, and fade. But in the hands of a trained preservation artist, your bouquet becomes a lasting work of art—capturing the romance, color, and emotion of your wedding day forever. This isn’t just a pretty keepsake. It’s a living memory, skillfully preserved and transformed into a one-of-a-kind heirloom.
Pro Tip: Ask to see all the sizes the preservationist offers. Seeing sizes and quality of work is worth the time.
3. Day-of Wedding Coordinator: Your Secret Weapon Against Stress
Even if you’re a planner by nature, the last thing you should be doing on your wedding day is managing the timeline, texting vendors, or fixing table settings. A day-of coordinator steps in to make sure everything runs smoothly so you don’t have to. They’re your behind-the-scenes ninja, solving problems before you even know they exist. It’s an investment in peace of mind and being fully present on your big day.
Pro Tip: Even if a full-service planner isn’t in the budget, a day-of coordinator can be a lifesaver for ensuring a smooth, stress-free event.
4. Rentals (Tables, Chairs, Linens, Candles/ Decor Etc.)
It’s tempting to borrow or DIY your way through tablescapes, but quality rentals elevate your entire wedding atmosphere. Mismatched folding chairs or last-minute linens can clash with your carefully curated aesthetic. Professional rental companies ensure everything arrives on time, looks beautiful, and works with your layout. Bonus: you don’t have to store or resell anything afterward!
Pro Tip: Visit the showroom in person to coordinate your overall theme.
5. Photographers
You only get one chance to capture the day, and those photos will be your most treasured keepsake. A skilled photographer knows how to document the big moments and the little ones you might miss. They work with light, emotion, and timing to make your wedding story unforgettable. Trust us: your cousin with a nice camera isn’t the same.
6. Videographers
Photos are essential, but video lets you feel your day all over again. The sound of your vows, your first laugh as a married couple, your dad’s teary toast. These are moments that video preserves in a completely different way. Many couples who skip a videographer say it’s their biggest regret. If you can, hire one. It’s worth it.
Pro Tip: Review portfolios thoroughly, read reviews, and schedule a consultation to ensure the photographer’s style aligns with your vision.
7. DJ or Entertainment
A playlist can’t read the room, but a good DJ can. They create energy, guide the flow of the reception, and know how to get guests dancing. Whether you go with live music or a DJ, investing in professional entertainment ensures a seamless, fun, and memorable celebration.
Pro Tip: Choose entertainers who specialize in weddings, and can handle unexpected technical issues.
8. The Dress (and Alterations)
You’ll never forget how you felt in the dress. Whether it’s designer or vintage, what matters is that it fits you perfectly. Don’t skimp on alterations, fit makes all the difference. You want to feel confident and comfortable in every photo, hug, and dance move.
Pro Tip: Budget for alterations when purchasing attire. A perfectly tailored dress or suit is always worth the investment.
9. The Venue
Your venue sets the stage for everything else. It affects lighting, layout, photos, comfort, and vibe. A beautiful, functional venue can reduce your need for additional decor or rentals and makes planning a lot smoother. Booking a reputable venue with great staff, amenities, and backup plans is an investment in your entire experience.
Pro Tip: Visit venues in person, inquire about contingency plans for weather or guest capacity changes.
10. Catering
Guests may not remember your centerpieces, but they will remember the food. Quality catering makes your reception feel like a true celebration. Great food brings people together, and good service keeps the event flowing smoothly. DIY meals or cut-rate caterers often lead to logistical headaches, and hungry guests.
Pro Tip: Ask potential caterers about their experience with weddings, their food safety practices, and if they offer tasting sessions.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing wrong with being budget-conscious, but knowing where to invest makes all the difference. These ten areas have a direct impact on your experience, your photos, and your memories. Spend where it counts, and skip the stress.
If you need help with wedding flowers, flower preservation, or day-of coordination, I’d be honored to help bring your vision to life and support you every step of the way.
Ready to plan a wedding that’s beautiful, meaningful, and stress-free?
Let’s chat about how I can help you bloom on your big day, from stunning florals to lasting keepsakes and seamless coordination.
Buds Blooms and Blossoms is a small women-owned business located in the heart of Cache Valley, Utah. I offer full service florals, fresh as well as silks. I’m also a professional flower preservationist. My specialty is flowers preserved in resin. I recently added- day of wedding coordinator to my list of services. I pride myself on high-quality florals, beautifully preserved bouquets, excellent customer service and reasonable prices. Find out how I can help assist you with your next event or special occasion. Reach out to schedule a free consultation.
Follow me on:
Facebook: @budsbloomsandblossoms
Instagram: @budsbloomsandblossoms
Below is a shout out to fellow wedding vendors around the country!
https://whimsicallyyou.com/, amethyststarventures.com, www.irenesbells.com, www.mdmassociates.net
