Don't DIY

I recently came across this interesting article on MSN from The Knot. It was titled, "Biggest Wedding Regrets," and listed several 'lessons learned' by those recently married. The whole article was great - a good, quick read for any bride-to-be. My favorite section, however, was the last: "About the Planning." Here's the excerpt:

About the Planning
"We wouldn't have done DIY invitations. The amount of money we saved just wasn't worth the time it took us to make them."
Tip: It's important to understand the nature of the projects that you're taking on before you or your loved ones commit to something you ultimately just won't want to finish.

"I would have hired a day-of coordinator. It got irritating when people would ask questions like, 'Where should I put the extra programs?' after the ceremony."
Tip: The one thing most brides don't get on their wedding day is a break. If you want to enjoy individual moments more and deal with questions and disasters less, hiring day-of help should be a high priority on your to-do list. The quality time you'll gain is well worth the fee.

This made me realize how often we all can get caught up in the do-it-yourself mentality. The proliferation of home improvement shows today demonstrates this, and our DIY attitude spills into many other areas. I recall one time, years ago, commenting to my mother that I would never buy anything I could make myself. I was looking at some baskets, and having just learned to weave in art class, decided I wouldn't buy one, because I had the skills to make it. While this is sometimes a good thing - enjoying a hobby is important - we no longer live in a time when it is necessary or cost-effective to do everything ourselves. More often than not, time, frustration, and money are saved when we choose to have a professional take care of something rather than doing it ourselves, even if we are capable.

At circle•the•date, we're here to help. We can provide ideas, creativity, and services for your wedding day that will allow you to truly enjoy it - not only the event, but the time leading up to it as well. You are a brilliant, highly-capable individual. Don't get caught-up in the DIY trap.