DIY vs. Rental: What’s Worth It for Your Atlanta Wedding (or Any Styled Event)
Because not everything needs to be made by hand (or stored in your garage forever)
🤔 Should You DIY or Rent?
Let’s be real: Pinterest makes everything look DIY‑able. But should you really try to paint 40 welcome signs at midnight the week of your event? Nope.
Whether you're styling a wedding, proposal, baby shower, or dinner party, the secret to luxury on a budget is knowing when to roll up your sleeves and when to rent like a queen.
🎯 Here's How to Decide:
✅ DIY if:
- It’s personal or sentimental
- You have time (and the patience of a saint)
- You’ll reuse it later
- You’re naturally good at it (crafty, design‑minded, or just super picky)
💸 Rent if:
- It’s large, heavy, or single-use
- It would be expensive to DIY right
- You don’t want to store it
- It requires logistics/setup you’d rather not deal with
💍 DIY vs. Rental for Atlanta Events
Here’s a breakdown with real examples and my personal hot takes:
Item | DIY 🧰 | Rent 🛋️ |
|---|---|---|
Bridal party gifts | YES - Think custom Target boxes with their faves | ✖️ No need to rent emotions 😆 |
Hair & makeup | If you’re skilled 💄 | Otherwise, treat yourself 💅 |
Unity ceremony decor | YES - Buy your own sand kits or glassware | ✖️ Only used once - easy DIY |
“Marry Me” letters | If you build regularly ✨ | YES - Large rentals = way easier |
Welcome sign | ✖️ One-and-done - rent it | YES - Let someone else store it |
Arches & backdrops | ✖️ Requires tools + time | YES - They’re big, heavy, and finicky |
Centerpieces | DIY dried florals or faux sets | Rent for large events or when short on time |
Linen napkins / Tablecloths | Rent - do you really want to iron 30 napkins? | YES - Save time and space |
Table numbers | DIY with Dollar Tree frames | Or rent for consistency |
💡 Real Life Scenario: Budget Wedding Build
You DIY:
- Bridesmaid boxes with Target goodies
- Custom unity sand set
- Faux dried florals for centerpieces
- Candle holders from Dollar Tree
- Seating chart using Canva + acrylic board
You Rent:
- Velvet drapery
- Arch with faux floral install
- Table linens + napkins
- “Welcome” signage
- Lounge seating
Result? A cohesive, luxurious look without the storage stress or budget burnout.
🎯 Dollar Tree + IKEA = DIY Heaven
- Dollar Tree: Glassware, frames for table numbers, ribbon, basic candles
- IKEA: Modern candle holders, tea lights, neutral linens
- Pro tip: Spray paint your Dollar Tree finds gold or matte black for a luxe feel
🛒 View my favorite Dollar Tree hacks in action on Instagram →
🧠 Bonus Tip: Don’t DIY Last-Minute
If you're doing it yourself:
- Start at least 4–6 weeks out
- Store items in labeled bins
- Assign tasks to friends (bribing with pizza counts as payment)
✨ Want the Look Without the Labor?
Let’s talk. I offer hybrid styling packages where you can DIY the small, personal touches and rent the large, high-impact pieces so your event feels fully “you” without all the glue gun burns.
Want Me to Just Do It for You?
Honestly, if this sounds like a lot (it is), we can design it with you or for you.
Head to Fairytale Frith Events or DM us @fairytalefrithevents to book a custom tablescape design or rentals.