Today started off with beautiful blue skies and whispy clouds.  As it got closer to my family portrait session, it started to drizzle, and when I arrived at Minnehaha Falls, it was pouring.  Luckily, the family I was photographing decided to brave the rain.  I was mainly there to get lifestyle portraits of their daughter, Evie.  She had so much fun splashing in puddles and picking up leaves.  She has the most amazing blue eyes and the cutest smile!  I loved following her around, though I was soaked by the time our session was done.  I'm so happy with how these images turned out.

See more images at http://stulagu.bigfolioblog.com/category/5144






 

I am all about DIY.  I make a lot of things, and John does as well.  And we also both mess up projects and get frustrated.  Over the years, we have found what works and what doesn't for DIY.  Some things, like electrical, John has studied up on and does well (and passes inspection!).  Other things, like tiling...I can do, but it is so time consuming, I'd rather hire out.  And yet others, snaking a sewer pipe, for instance, really needs to be left to the professionals (there is nothing like a flooded basement to calm the nerves).  I'm using home projects as examples because the do-it-yourself movement is HUGE in this arena, and I think it segways nicely into weddings.

I've noticed a trend in bridal magazines and shows that promote the do-it-yourselfer.  You can save SO much money!  Its fun!  Its unique!  It is also difficult.  Have you TRIED to do a Martha Stewart craft?  Sure, it looks easy on tv or in the magazine, but just like tiling a bathroom, it can be easier on your wallet and sanity to just hire a professional.

There needs to be some education with DIY and some smart choices when you're approaching this for your wedding.  Time is just as valuable as materials.  As is your sanity.  Even though you may be able to do things yourself, it doesn't mean you should.  Is it worth being stressed up until you walk down the aisle?  Do you want to be folding 200 programs after you get home from your rehearsal dinner?  Here are a few thoughts...

Do It Yourself
invitations, placecards, other stationery goods and favors
gifts for your bridesmaids
rehearsal dinner
overall wedding planning

Do NOT Attempt
reception decor - do you want your mom hanging tule two hours before your wedding?
your dress
your photography - this is the one artistic record of the day, do it right!
your cake
your music - Ipods are NOT djs!

Of course, there are exceptions.  Though we don't recommend having a family member be a vendor for your wedding (trust us, it is a lot of unwanted drama) if you need to save some money and have an aunt that is a floral designer, this can work out well.  Just be sure to set parameters ahead of time and pay fairly so there are no hard feelings.  Don't assume that since they're family, they will do it for free. 

Be very realistic.  If you have a small wedding budget, try other options than simply doing everything yourself.  Having a small guest list and atypical venues that don't need a lot decoration will save your wallet and sanity a lot more than a lot of DIY projects.  Also, give yourself twice as long to do something than you think it will take.  Cushion your time and do one project at a time to keep the stress levels down.  And keep things simple!  You want to be glowing and happy and stress free on your wedding day...your health is a DIY project that is important as well.