DIY Venue vs. All-in-House Wedding Venue — Which Is Right for You?
One of the very first and most important decisions you’ll make when planning your wedding is choosing your venue. The venue sets the tone for your entire day and often influences the style, budget, and even the logistics of your celebration. But with so many options available, couples often face one big choice: should you go for a DIY-style venue or an all-in-house venue?
Both options have their charms — and their challenges. Let’s break them down.
DIY Venues
Pros:
Creative freedom — You get to choose every single supplier, from caterers to décor.
Personalisation — Every detail can reflect your vision, making the day uniquely yours.
Unique spaces — Think rustic barns, private gardens, or atmospheric warehouses.
Cons:
Logistics are on you — You may need to source everything from tables and chairs to cutlery, glassware, and staff.
More moving parts — With multiple suppliers involved, coordinating the day can get tricky.
Set-up & breakdown — These often fall to you (or your planner!) to manage.
✨ Tip: If you’re drawn to a DIY venue, consider hiring a wedding coordinator. Having a professional manage timings, set-up, and logistics ensures you and your loved ones can enjoy the day without stress.
All-in-House Venues
Pros:
Convenience — Many include catering, furniture, and staff as part of their package.
Less stress — The venue team handles many of the key details, so there’s less to worry about.
Tried and tested — These venues often run weddings every weekend and know exactly how to make things run smoothly.
Cons:
Less flexibility — You may have to stick to the venue’s catering menus, drinks packages, or approved suppliers.
Set formats — Timings and layouts are often standardised, leaving less room for creative ideas.
✨ Tip: Even with all-in-house venues, a planner can help you make your day feel truly personal and ensure you’re not just following a set template.
So, which should you choose?
The answer depends on your priorities. If you dream of curating every last detail and don’t mind the logistics, a DIY venue could be perfect. If you’d rather minimise stress and enjoy the convenience of a ready-to-go package, an all-in-house venue might be the way forward.
Either way, having someone to guide you through the process (and handle the behind-the-scenes details on the day) means you can focus on what matters most: celebrating your love. 💫