Real Etiquette: Unwanted DIY Projects

Posted by Khris in Real Etiquette

This is an interesting contrast to our last R.E. post that dealt with getting people to help with DIY projects.

Dear DIY Bride: My fiance’s aunt is insisting that she make my bridal bouquet. She’s well-known in our family for making silk arrangements. They’re nice but not even close to what I want. How do you suggest dealing with unwanted projects that are being pushed upon you? (Please don’t suggest having her do a toss bouquet; we’re not doing a bouquet toss! Thanks!) — Kayleigh

Dear Kayleigh,

Have you flat out told her “no, thank you” yet? It is my experience that being direct – but gentle – is often the best approach for dealing with helpy helpertons. “Thanks, Auntie, but I’ve already decided on using fresh flowers for my bouquet.” should be sufficient. If pressed for more details be honest but vague. “Fresh flowers are intensely meaningful to me.” “We’ve already found our perfect florist and signed a contract.” Don’t give room for negotiation with statements like “Silk flowers aren’t as pretty as real ones…” Stay firm but be polite as possible. If she ultimately leaves angry, that’s on her – not you or your fiance.

It’s actually lovely that she wants to contribute and in a way that’s meaningful to her. It is your wedding, however, and you get to make the decisions about what you carry down the aisle. In the grand scheme of things this shouldn’t be a big deal but we all know how family politics in a wedding setting can go haywire.

If you’re not totally against the idea of her helping out, I do recommend giving her alternative projects or ways to chip in. How about corsages for the moms and grandmothers? Decorating the guest book or gift tables?  The altar? Guest chairs? Adding flowers to the guest book pen or the cake knife? Decorating the getaway car? Or a faux bouquet for the rehearsal?  There are a multitude of floral projects that can successfully be done with silks without distracting from the fresh florals that you love.

Ann’s Guest Book

Posted by Khris in Ceremony & Reception Accessories, DIY Projects & Tutorials

The utterly wonderful Ann, a DIY Bride, has graciously shared her lovely DIY guest book project with us. Originally inspired by a Martha project, Ann has developed a simplified version that costs about $8.00 to make.

Directions after the jump.