🧑🏽‍💼 Planner vs. DIY Showdown: Pros, Cons & Budget Truths

💥 The Showdown Every Couple Needs: Planner vs. DIY

So you’ve said yes — now comes the real question:
Do you hire a wedding planner or channel your inner Pinterest queen and DIY the whole thing?

Whether you're tying the knot at a luxury lodge in Vic Falls, planning a backyard bash in Gweru, or dreaming of coastal romance in Mauritius, this is one decision that shapes your whole planning journey.

Let’s unpack the pros, cons, and real budget truths for both options — and yes, we’re keeping it 100% Southern African.

💼 Option 1: Hiring a Wedding Planner

Perfect For:

Diaspora couples planning from abroad (hello UK, Aus & Canada crew!)

Busy professionals or couples juggling careers and school

Big cultural weddings with lots of logistics (roora, lobola, church + reception!)

✅ Pros:

Less Stress, More Joy
Someone else handles your vendor drama, timelines, and backup plans. You focus on the champagne.

Industry Connections
Planners know which DJ ghosted last year and which florist delivers magic on a budget.

Cultural Know-How
From Roora protocol to city permits, they’ve done it before — and they know your aunties.

Time Management Queens
Your planner will keep you and your squad on schedule (with WhatsApp check-ins and spreadsheets galore).

❌ Cons:

Upfront Cost
Expect to budget between R15,000 – R50,000+ in SA, or USD $800 – $2,500 in Zim/Zam.

Less Control (If You’re a Type A Bride)
Some brides love doing everything themselves — planners might feel like they’re stepping on your toes.

🎨 Option 2: DIY Planning

Perfect For:

Budget-conscious couples

Intimate weddings (under 50 guests)

Hands-on brides who love spreadsheets and vision boards

✅ Pros:

Save on Planning Fees
That money can go to your honeymoon, photographer, or… custom Shweshwe bridesmaid dresses.

Creative Freedom
Every detail has you written all over it — from playlist to petal toss.

Learn New Skills
You’ll leave the experience as a spreadsheet warrior and quote negotiator extraordinaire.

❌ Cons:

Time & Burnout Risk
Between work, family, and life — wedding admin can be a full-time job.

More Room for Mistakes
Booking the wrong vendor, forgetting a permit, or running late on the day? It happens more often than you think.

Guest Experience Can Suffer
When you’re managing details on the day, you miss the moments that matter most.

💸 Budget Breakdown: Planner vs DIY

🧠 What About a Hybrid?

Many couples opt for a “half-planner” approach:

Hire a planner just for month-of or day-of coordination

Use planning tools like the Plan My Wedding Africa app to manage your vendors, timeline, and guestlist

📲 Hot Tip: Check out our vendor checklist and budget tracker in the app. It’s DIY’s new best friend.

✨ So… Which One’s for You?

Ask Yourself:

How much time can I realistically dedicate?

Am I planning locally or from overseas?

Do I love managing logistics, or would I rather sip rosé while someone else handles it?

Can I handle the pressure on the day or do I want to be fully present