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DIY Event Design vs. Hiring a Professional: Weighing the Pros and Cons

Apr 30 / The IWED Blog

Planning an event is always exciting and filled with creative possibilities. One of the critical decisions your clients will face is whether to embark on a Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Design or enlist the expertise of a professional (you) to help create the perfect atmosphere. In this article, we'll navigate the pros and cons of both approaches, helping you assist your client with the decision to save money or pay for the vision. 


DIY Event Design

The Pros...

Cost-Effective: DIY event design is often more budget-friendly as it eliminates professional fees. You have control over expenses and can repurpose existing items, tap into your creativity, and find affordable solutions.


Personal Touch: Crafting your event design allows for a personal touch. You can infuse your personality, preferences, and sentimental items, creating a unique and intimate atmosphere that reflects your style.

Flexibility and Experimentation: DIY offers the freedom to experiment with various design elements. You can explore unconventional ideas, customize details on the fly, and adapt your design as needed throughout the planning process.

The Cons...

Time-Consuming: DIY projects can be time-consuming, especially if you're not experienced in event design. Planning, sourcing materials, and executing the design may take more time than anticipated.

Limited Expertise: Lack of professional expertise might result in design challenges. Achieving a cohesive and polished look requires a deep understanding of design principles, which DIY enthusiasts may find challenging.

Stress and Pressure: Managing DIY event design can be stressful, particularly as the event date approaches. Balancing other responsibilities while executing intricate design plans may lead to added pressure.

Hiring a Professional

The Pros...

Expertise and Experience: Professionals bring a wealth of expertise and experience to the table. They understand design principles, color schemes, and spatial arrangements, ensuring a visually stunning and well-executed event.

Time-Efficient: Hiring a professional saves time. They have established workflows, industry connections, and the ability to efficiently bring your vision to life, allowing you to focus on other aspects of event planning.

Access to Resources: Professionals have access to a wide range of resources, from exclusive décor suppliers to experienced craftsmen. This access enhances the quality of materials and services, elevating the overall design.

The Cons:

Higher Cost: The primary drawback of hiring a professional is the associated cost. Design fees, materials, and additional services contribute to a higher overall expense compared to a DIY approach.Of course, this is all relative! Clients who aren’t familiar with materials can spend A LOT of money trying to get the vision just right. 

Less Personalization:
While professionals aim to capture your vision, there may be a perceived lack of personalization compared to a DIY project. Some may feel that their unique touch is diluted in the hands of a designer. If you are a great designer, YOU can tap into your clients personality and bring it out FOR THEM on their behalf. 

Less Control: Enlisting a professional means relinquishing some control over the design process. If you prefer to have hands-on involvement, this may be a drawback.

Conclusion:

Choosing between DIY event design and hiring a professional ultimately depends on your priorities, skills, and resources. DIY is ideal for those with a creative flair, a tight budget, and ample time. On the other hand, hiring a professional ensures a polished result, saves time, and brings a level of expertise that can turn the event into a seamless and visually stunning experience. Carefully weighing the pros and cons will guide your client towards the approach that aligns best with their vision for the perfect event.


It is our job, as Event Professionals, to tap into our clients vision and personality and BRING IT TO LIFE for them. If you have that one client who just won’t budge on DIY, give them a simple DIY project and you can incorporate that into your professional vision.

IWED offers six different event design programs that will take YOU to a PROFESSIONAL level in just a few days.