When we first started planning our wedding, I knew I wanted it to feel personal. Not just “pretty venue, pretty flowers” personal – but a wedding where you could see us in every single detail.

We dove in headfirst. And when I say “headfirst,” I mean our list was long. We stained own table runners, built a ceremony/reception backdrop, created a seating chart with custom limewash columns, put together a folding coffee bar, made signage, embossed napkins, designed menus, and even did custom name tags for our guests.

Looking back, it was a mix of wins, pivots, stressful late-night painting sessions, and so much pride when I finally saw it all come together. Here’s what I learned from DIY-ing our wedding decor — the highs, the lows, and the advice I wish I’d had when we started.