The economy is pretty tight. That means that people are trying to spend less money. And that also means that people are attempting to find DIY ideas for wedding receptions that will decrease costs. But doing it yourself is NOT worth the trouble unless the results are going to be utterly fabulous.

This list of quick and easy DIY ideas can make a difference to the look and the cost of wedding receptions:

1. Centerpieces are a big part of the overall decor. When there are high numbers of tables and there are centerpieces on each table the cost can become fairly astronomical. This makes DIY centerpieces popular. There are many that can be completed with little investment that add a high class touch to wedding receptions. This one is a favorite that can be completed by almost anyone (DIY experienced or not!)

Start with a simple bowl and a Styrofoam ball. Place the ball in the bowl. Now place nice, silk flowers evenly and throughout the Styrofoam ball. Throw in some longer greenery randomly to give the arrangement a whimsical look. Another option is to gather glass vases of varying sizes and fill them with different types of candy that comes in the colors used at the wedding receptions. Another option is unique to each reception. You could put together a centerpiece that is directly related to the bride and/or groom. One such arrangement we've seen consisted of antique vases (a variety, of course) filled with fresh flowers.

2. Wedding receptions can have great favors. Favors have been a long time tradition at wedding receptions. Some easy DIY suggestions for favors include: CDs, matchboxes, and seed packets.

When putting together CD compilations you can make an arrangement of songs that the bride and groom prefer or it could have some symbolic meaning that guests will catch (like a copy of the music played at the reception). Matchboxes can be very memorable because the personalization can include the wedding date, venue, etc. And seed packets...are fantastic and usable. It's a perfect little gift.

3. DIYing the Guest Book: Guests books are very traditional. But some are very expensive and can seem like a wasted expense; especially when you consider how many times the book is perused post-wedding (not often; sometimes never).

One fabulous DIY idea for the guest book is to enlarge a copy of the engagement photo have it put behind a great matte and then propped up on a large easel by the door with a pen handy. Guests sign the matte instead of a traditional guest book. The bride and groom then take it home, frame it and hang it in their new home as their first family photo.

The DIY projects popular for wedding receptions can save a lot of money. But due to the unique nature of this particular event...it's also very important that money isn't the only factor involved in the project. Doing it yourself to save money alone can really affect the overall aesthetics of the event. Be careful that what you're accomplishing is actually in line with the style and tone of the reception before you take on a project.

By Rachel Hansen. For more tips on wedding venues, events and wedding planning visit Villa Sienna.