When you’re planning a wedding in Ireland, you’re spoiled for choice with stunning venues, breathtaking scenery, and an ever-growing list of talented wedding suppliers. But there’s one big question that nearly every couple asks at some point: Should we rent this, or could we DIY it?
DIY wedding decor can be a great way to personalise your Big Day, add a bit of creative flair, and even save money – if done wisely. That said, not everything should be tackled with a glue gun and good intentions. Some things are better left to the pros (trust us, you’ll thank yourself later).
So let’s break it down: what wedding decor is worth DIY-ing in Ireland, and what’s better rented or professionally done?
DIY Wedding Decor: Worth the Effort
1. Confetti Cones
Simple, sweet, and totally doable. Use recycled paper, old books, or personalised prints to create cones for dried flower petals or biodegradable confetti (which many Irish venues now require). It’s a great evening craft with your bridesmaids, and you can prep these well in advance.
2. Chalkboard Signs
DIY signs are a fun way to inject personality into your wedding. Whether you’re sharing your love story timeline, pointing guests to the dancefloor, or displaying your wedding hashtag, a bit of chalkboard paint and a steady hand can go a long way. These are especially great for rustic barn weddings or outdoor ceremonies in the Irish countryside.
3. Bathroom Kits
Guests love thoughtful touches, and a DIY bathroom kit is one of the easiest ways to impress. Stock it with plasters, deodorant, safety pins, mints, and mini perfumes. You’ll earn serious brownie points, and it won’t cost you much at all.
4. Favours
If you’ve got a creative streak, DIY favours can be a charming touch. Think handmade candles, jars of jam, or custom seed packets. Just make sure they’re easy to assemble in bulk (and that they won’t go stale or break before the Big Day!).
5. Ceremony Backdrops (within reason)
If you’re planning a small wedding or hosting your ceremony at home or outdoors, a DIY floral arch or fabric backdrop can add magic without a huge cost. But this one depends on your skill level – don’t take it on if you’re not confident or don’t have help.
Better to Rent or Leave to the Pros
1. Wedding Entertainment
DIY-ing your music with a playlist might seem budget-friendly, but it’s not worth the risk. A professional DJ or band knows how to read a room, adjust volume, handle transitions, and keep guests dancing all night. Plus, they bring proper sound equipment (a must-have for Irish venues with high ceilings or outdoor spaces).
2. Photography
No matter how good your cousin’s camera is, your wedding day is not the time to cut corners on photography. A professional photographer knows how to capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments and make them look effortless. They also know how to work in Ireland’s ever-changing weather and lighting conditions. This is one area where DIY just can’t compare.
3. Food & Catering
Unless you’re hosting a very small, intimate meal at home, catering is one to leave to the professionals. They handle food safety, warm dishes, guest dietary needs, service, and cleanup. Plus, guests will remember the food – good or bad. Don’t let your reception be memorable for the wrong reasons.
4. Day-Of Coordination
Even the most organised bride or groom can’t (and shouldn’t) be the point person on the day. A professional coordinator will handle logistics, direct suppliers, and put out any unexpected fires so you don’t have to. This is especially important if you’re planning a DIY-heavy wedding, because someone needs to manage the setup.
5. Large Installations (e.g., lighting, furniture, draping)
Anything that requires ladders, logistics, or liability (think fairy lights in trees, marquee installations, or vintage furniture setups) is usually best rented and handled by pros. Irish weather can be unpredictable, and professionals will know how to prepare for it.
So, Should You DIY or Rent?
Ask yourself these key questions:
Do I have time to create and set this up properly?
Can I delegate this to someone I trust?
Will I be stressed if it doesn’t turn out perfectly?
Is it safe and practical to do this myself?
If the answer to any of those is “no,” it’s probably best to rent or hire a professional. The goal is to enhance your day, not to make it more stressful.
