Let's Talk Supplies

Okay, so you've gotten tons of wedding DIY ideas from my list of 101 DIY's and throughout the web and you're ready to start putting things together to create some wedding magic. But do you know great supply sources that will allow you to keep within budget? For me it was a mixture of using coupons and great supply websites, as well as thinking outside the box that helped me keep costs down when I was planning my DIY wedding. To help you in this, I've put together a list of my favorite five supply "stores".

1. Michaels
Did you know that Michaels craft store always has a 40 percent off coupon that you can print from home as well as an app with a coupon central section? The coupon is valid for one item each day, but if you're going to be purchasing only a few items from them, you can spread your visits out and get some great deals on everything from tape to printable invitations to hot glue guns to glass vases to yarn.

2. Clear Bags
Are you planning on having DIY invitations? Make sure to check out the envelopes that Clear Bags offers. They're great, come in a variety of colors like ivory and silver, and they almost always send you a few extra when you order. Clear Bags also has tons of other great packaging items. For the best shipping rates, make a purchase over $45 USD.

3. Paper Mart
Like Clear Bags, Paper Mart also has a great selection of packaging tools as well a good supply of fabrics.

4. Etsy
Did you know that Etsy also sells craft supplies? And there are tons of awesome supply shops that usually have great prices. Shop around, and use their search engine optimally. The only thing to note is that often times you can find great offers that have to be shipped internationally, so if you're ordering from Etsy try to make sure you're ordering from the same country you're living in or have the time to wait for your supplies.

5. Nature
Have you noticed how many things in nature are free? You can make boutonniere using flowers from your backyard or autumn leaves. You can have nautical themed centerpieces using seashells you've found at a beach close by or use stones to hold up the wire that you're using to put your seating place cards on. The best thing about nature is its overabundance of beauty. If you're on a limited budget, don't forget that you can always mold nature findings to match your wedding colors or theme using spray paint or the likes. It's just a matter of being creative!

What supply treasure chests have you found?


(photo credit: Sandra Proudman)