Planning an event can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Whether it’s a wedding, birthday party, or corporate gathering, there’s something satisfying about seeing your vision come to life. But let’s face it—event planning can also be overwhelming. One of the most important decisions you’ll make is deciding what to handle yourself and when to call in the professionals.
Here’s how to figure out the best balance for your event:
1. Start with Your Budget
Your budget is often the deciding factor in what you can take on yourself and what you’ll need help with. While DIY projects can save money, they can also cost you time and energy.
Tip: Focus your DIY efforts on elements that are low-cost but high-impact, such as handmade decor or personalised favours. Leave the more technical parts to the experts such as Flowers and Catering.
2. Assess Your Skills and Resources
Before diving into DIY, ask yourself:
Do I have the skills to execute this task well?
Do I have the tools, time, and space needed?
For example, crafting centrepieces might sound fun, but without the right materials or expertise, it can quickly become frustrating. On the other hand, creating simple name cards or assembling welcome bags might be well within your comfort zone.
A great way to see whether you have the skills to do it DIY is to watch a tutorial video on Youtube!
3. Know What’s Worth Delegating
Some aspects of event planning are best left to professionals because they require specialised knowledge or experience. Here are a few examples:
Photography and Videography: Capturing memories is too important to risk on amateur efforts. A professional knows how to work under various lighting conditions and won’t miss key moments.
Catering: Food can make or break your event. A professional caterer ensures your menu is delicious, well-presented, and safely prepared.
Entertainment: DJs, bands, and entertainers have the experience to keep the crowd engaged and the energy flowing.
4. Factor in Your Timeline
DIY projects take time—and often more time than you’d expect. Depending on the date of your event, along with your daily schedule can often determine whether hiring the professionals is going to better in the long wrong.
5. Think About Stress Levels
One of the biggest advantages of hiring professionals is peace of mind. Knowing someone experienced is handling key aspects of your event allows you to focus on enjoying the day rather than stressing over details.
All to often I see people online sharing how stressful they’re finding the DIY and its all getting too much. They realise that as fun as it sounded in the beginning, they’re now wishing that they had hired someone to do it in the beginning. Having now spent a good chunk of their budget on the DIY there is little room to now get a professional to take over.
6. Blend DIY with Professional Help
The best approach is often a combination of DIY and delegation. For instance:
DIY: Personal touches like handwritten notes, photo displays, or homemade desserts.
Delegate: Tasks that require expertise, such as technical AV setups or managing timelines.
By blending the two, you can enjoy the creative satisfaction of DIY while still ensuring a polished and professional event, which will give you the unique style which is often the reason people opt for a DIY event but rarely think of the reality.
Knowing when to DIY and when to delegate is about recognising your limits and valuing your time. The goal is to create an event that’s memorable for all the right reasons—without running yourself ragged in the process.
Remember, calling in the professionals isn’t a sign of failure; it’s a strategic choice to make your vision a reality.
So, whether you’re tying bows or tying the knot, don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it.
Need more tips or advice? Get in touch—I’d love to help you create the perfect event, whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or ready to delegate!
Charlotte
www.bigoccasionevents.co.uk
