The ‘DIY’ wedding trend has been increasing to allow couples to create their special day exactly how they want it, keeping in control and not feeling regimented by the stipulations of the venue. A ‘DIY’ wedding also allows for cost savings and personalised touches, making it a good fit for couples who are comfortable with planning and want to reflect their unique style and values.
WHERE TO START: BUDGET, MOOD BOARDS AND PLANNING AHEAD
Here’s a list of some of the things to consider when planning a DIY wedding:
- Style – make a mood board
- Prepare a budget – what is included in your venue hire and what else needs to be factored in
- Don’t leave things to the last minute
- Enlist help from friends or family members to help in both the planning and requirements on the day – a great way to save money in the long run
STYLING YOUR VENUE: MAKE IT YOUR OWN
Are you looking for a venue that is formal or more relaxed, and how will you style it? If you are keeping your budget low, look for venues that need minimal styling. Here at the Small Beer brewery, the industrial chic look and feel of the tanks and brewing equipment make the perfect backdrop for couples looking for something a little bit different, without the need to go all out to style a venue.
SHARING THE LOAD: FRIENDS, FAMILY AND ROLES ON THE DAY
A DIY wedding means you probably won’t be shelling out on a wedding planner. But what you do have is a gaggle of friends and family that can help make your day special. Do you have a friend or auntie that would like to make the wedding cake for you? Is anyone secretly an aspiring photographer? Or even just an uber-organised friend who can take charge on the day and be the point of contact for the venue or caterers to take the stress off? Don’t forget those groomsmen – they could also use their muscle and pack a few tables away at the end of the meal to make space for the dancefloor!
ACCESS MATTERS: WHEN CAN YOU SET UP AND CLEAR OUT?
Many venues offer day hire for weddings, but does this give you enough time to get set up? And do you really want to be setting up on the morning of your big day? We offer all our couples access the day before for delivery of furniture, flowers and any set up, and then the day after so that you aren’t worrying about having to take everything home with you at the end of the night. Having a window for collections on the Sunday can make things a whole lot easier.
FOOD, FURNITURE AND THE GUEST EXPERIENCE
Think about the experience you want your guests to have on your special day. Planning the food can be one of the most enjoyable parts of wedding prep. Whether you envision a sit-down meal – fine dining or family-style sharing plates – or prefer a more relaxed vibe with food trucks, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Some venues will insist on using one of their own caterers. At Small Beer, we can share a list of catering companies and street food trucks we’ve worked with in the past – but equally, we welcome a couple’s own choice too. It’s their guests who will be eating at the end of the day, and it’s an opportunity for us to work with someone new.
Does the venue have its own furniture, or can you add your own mark here too by hiring in to fit your style? Consider how you’d like your guests to enjoy the day. A traditional, formal seating arrangement works for many, but actually a combination of seating and standing may work well for those choosing a more informal meal – some people enjoy standing and chatting while they eat. This in turn reduces the budget for furniture hire.
SORTING THE BAR: DRINK OPTIONS FOR EVERYONE
For drinks during the reception, your venue may give you the option to bring your own alcoholic drinks or may provide a bar with their own selection. It’s worth noting that most venues will charge corkage on any drinks you bring in – and this can be as much as the wine itself.
Once it gets to the evening, you’ll probably have the choice of putting money behind the bar or offering a pay-as-you-go setup.
The wedding day will likely span a long period of time, and a lot of alcohol may be consumed. Offering low-alcohol or alcohol-free options allows for a more inclusive celebration where guests can participate fully – and remember more of the night!
WHY SMALL BEER MAKES A BRILLIANT WEDDING VENUE
Holding your wedding at Small Beer, the world’s only brewery that specialises in brewing mid-strength, gives your guests the option to enjoy a flavoursome pint without overdoing it – allowing everyone to enjoy and remember the whole day.
If you’re thinking about how much beer to cater for your guests, here’s the Small Beer guide to wedding beers.
If you're thinking about a DIY wedding and a brewery in London seems like the perfect venue, we'd love to discuss hosting your special day.
