‘DIY Wedding Venue’ vs ‘All-Inclusive’ : Which Is Right for You?
By Gold Coast Wedding Coordinator - Jess Larsen
One of the biggest decisions couples make when planning their wedding is whether to choose a DIY wedding venue or an all-inclusive venue.
At first glance, a DIY venue can appear significantly cheaper.
But the reality is often more complex.
As a Wedding Coordinator on the Gold Coast, Australia, I've seen many couples discover hidden costs later in the planning process simply because they didn't realise what wasn't included.
I’ve also seen couples choose DIY venues and be so incredibly happy with their decision to create something truly unique for them.
Before making your decision, here's what you need to know.
What Is a DIY Wedding Venue?
A DIY venue typically provides the location and little else.
This could be:
A private property
A farm
A hinterland estate
A blank canvas venue
While these venues often offer incredible flexibility and the ability to create something that truly represents you as a couple, they usually require you to organise many additional elements yourself.
This might include:
Catering
Bar service
Furniture hire
Ceremony chairs
Tables
Linen
Glassware
Cutlery
Lighting
Toilets
Cool rooms
Sound equipment
“The freedom can be wonderful, but it comes with additional planning responsibilities.”
What is an All Inclusive Wedding Venue?
This often includes:
Catering
Drinks packages
Furniture
Staff
Bar service
Venue coordination
Basic equipment and setup
For couples wanting a more streamlined planning experience, this can significantly reduce stress and simplify logistics.
The Hidden Costs Couples Often Miss
One of the most common mistakes I see is comparing venue hire fees without comparing total wedding costs.
A DIY venue may seem more affordable initially.
However, once you add:
Furniture hire
Staffing
Catering
Transport
Setup and pack down
Equipment hire
“The overall investment can end up being similar to, or even exceed, an all-inclusive venue. That’s why it’s so important to understand exactly what is included and what you need before making a decision.”
Which Option Creates the Experience You Want?
Neither option is better.
The right choice depends entirely on your priorities.
A DIY venue may be perfect if you:
Want complete creative freedom
Have a specific vision
Love the idea of a unique location
Want to get married on a private property or a family estate
An all-inclusive venue may be ideal if you:
Want simplicity
Prefer fewer moving parts
Have limited time to plan
Want a more hands-off experience
The key is understanding what each option requires before you commit.
Final Thoughts
Before booking any venue, create a complete list of everything you think you’ll need for your wedding day.
Then compare venues based on the total experience and total investment, not just the venue hire fee.
Doing this early can save you significant stress, unexpected expenses and last-minute surprises later on.
