One of the biggest decisions when planning an event is whether to handle everything yourself (DIY) or hire professionals for certain tasks. 

The right approach depends on your event’s size, complexity, budget, and your own experience and availability. Additionally, the right balance between DIY and hiring help can save you time, reduce stress, and ensure your event runs smoothly.

Here’s a breakdown of what’s best to DIY and what’s worth outsourcing for a successful, stress-free event.

Hiring event planning professionals

There's a growing trend towards hiring professional event planners in Australia, especially for larger or more complex events like weddings or corporate gatherings. Hiring the best event services in Australia comes with some great advantages. 

The first advantage is experience and expertise. Event professionals know what works and what doesn’t. They bring valuable insights, creative solutions, and proven systems that help avoid common pitfalls and deliver polished results.

At the same time, they come with access to trusted vendors. Planners, caterers, and coordinators often have established relationships with reliable vendors, helping you get better deals, priority service, and seamless collaboration.

We can’t not mention that hiring event planners or outsourcing certain tasks can save you time and reduce stress. Hiring professionals frees up your time by taking care of logistics, setup, coordination, and troubleshooting, so you can focus on enjoying your event and spending time with your guests. Event pros also handle the pressure, so you don’t have to. 

What you should consider outsourcing

If you don’t want to hire event planners, you can still save time and relieve some pressure by outsourcing some specific tasks. 

Entertainment and AV equipment

Hiring a DJ, live band, or AV technician ensures the sound, lighting, and energy of your event are on point, especially for weddings or corporate functions where quality counts.

Photography and videography

Professionals not only have the right gear but also know how to capture moments beautifully. DIY photos often miss key memories or result in low quality.

Catering and bar service

Food and drinks are central to any event. Outsourcing catering ensures consistent quality, proper food safety, and less cleanup. For alcohol, licensed bartenders can handle service and safety.

Event rentals and setup

Items such as tables, chairs, linens, and tents are often best left to rental companies, who will deliver, set up, and tear down. It saves time and physical effort on your part.

Day-of coordination

Even if you plan the event yourself, hiring a day-of coordinator allows you to enjoy the occasion while someone else keeps everything running smoothly.

DIY event planning

Some of the most significant benefits of planning an event yourself include cost savings, creative control, and flexibility. 

By deciding to DIY your event, you avoid professional fees, making this approach ideal for small gatherings or when working with a tight budget.

On top of that, the DIY approach allows you to have complete control over every detail, allowing for personal touches that reflect your vision and style. Plus, you can adjust plans as you go and make decisions at your own pace.

However, DIY can be time-consuming and stressful, especially if you lack experience or are organizing a large or complex event. Tasks like vendor research, contract negotiation, and troubleshooting on the day can quickly become overwhelming.

What you can DIY

Décor and setup

If you're crafty or have a clear vision, DIY décor is a great way to personalize your event. You can craft table centerpieces, signage, and balloon garlands. You can also create printed menus or place cards, as well as themed photo backdrops.

If you’re going to take the DIY route, remember that it works best when done in advance, to avoid last-minute setup stress.

Invitations and guest communication

Use free and affordable tools like Canva or Evite to design your invitations. This approach is easy and budget-friendly. You can also manage RSVPs and reminders yourself via email or event platforms.

Favors and treats

Small DIY favors (homemade cookies, candles, mini succulents) can add a personal touch that guests love. Just make sure you have time to prep them in advance.

Planning and coordination

If your event is small and informal (like a birthday or baby shower), you can likely handle the logistics without a planner. Just stay organized with checklists and a clear timeline.

The hybrid approach

Many event planners offer partial services. You can manage the aspects you enjoy (like décor or invitations) and outsource the more complex or time-consuming tasks (like vendor management or day-of coordination). 

This allows you to retain creative control while benefiting from professional expertise where it matters most. This strategy keeps your event personal, affordable, and stress-free.

Conclusion

DIY can save money and add personal touches, but it can also be time-consuming and stressful if you overcommit. 

When in doubt, outsource high-impact, high-stress areas to professionals. You’ll get to enjoy your event and leave the heavy lifting to the experts.