**Bride-to-Be Saves Over £1,000 with DIY Wedding Innovations**
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In a creative effort to reduce wedding costs, Elizabeth Mitchell, a 36-year-old exams officer from East Yorkshire, has implemented an array of do-it-yourself strategies for her forthcoming wedding. After receiving quotes for decorations that reached nearly £2,700, Mitchell decided to take matters into her own hands, potentially saving over £1,000.
Mitchell and her fiancé, Daniel Wheal, who have been together for three years, opted to produce their own centrepieces and welcome signs for their wedding. Inspired by online ideas, Wheal suggested a novel approach to wedding favours: using Polo mints emblazoned with the playful label “mint to be.” This use of affordable mints, costing just 14 pence each, has attracted mixed reactions from social media users, with some praising the sentiment while others expressed discontent.
Reflecting on the reasoning behind their DIY approach, Mitchell stated, “We attended a wedding fair and discovered the immense costs for decorating the venue. I thought, ‘I could do a lot of that myself.'” This decision enabled Mitchell to craft personalised touches while significantly reducing expenses.
The couple maintained their frugal ethos by sourcing nine tubes of mints for under £5, alongside £3 worth of resealable bags for presentation. They designed custom labels using Canva, which they attached with staples, creating a personal touch for their 80 wedding guests. “It was incredibly straightforward; we completed the project in just one evening,” Mitchell remarked, highlighting their commitment to DIY.
While many comments on Mitchell’s social media post commended the lovely idea of offering mints, others voiced criticisms. Some commentators admitted they would feel disgruntled to receive mints as a wedding favour, citing expectations for more substantial gifts. However, Mitchell defended her choice, noting that the favours would be presented following a full three-course meal. “It’s just a small treat to enjoy after dinner,” she explained, underscoring the light-hearted nature of the gift.
Mitchell expressed amusement at the backlash, noting, “We’ve been laughing about the negative reactions to the mints. What more can you expect at a wedding?” She further added, “It’s just what the bride and groom want—guests shouldn’t necessarily expect anything out of the ordinary.” Alongside the mint favours, she plans to provide biscuits decorated with their names, adding another personal touch for attendees.
The couple’s focus on budget-friendly options fits a growing trend among couples seeking to minimise wedding costs without compromising on their special day’s essence. Many new brides-to-be are resorting to DIY projects as a means of personalising their celebrations, tackling everything from decorations to favours.
As similar stories of budget-conscious weddings circulate online, it appears that the stigma surrounding inexpensive wedding elements is diminishing. Encouraged by her own efforts, Mitchell advised other brides to consider the DIY route, saying, “With some creativity, it’s possible to make your wedding uniquely yours without breaking the bank.”
As the couple prepares for their special day, they remain committed to their cost-effective mindset, demonstrating that love and creativity can triumph over extravagant spending. Despite the polarising reactions they have encountered, Mitchell and Wheal are optimistic that their guests will appreciate the thoughtful gestures behind their DIY projects.