Body work for a newb?

[akpackfan]

I now have replacement body panels for my 71. Inner and Outer Rockers, Cab Corners, front and rear Cab Floor Supports. I have a friend who is experienced in body work and will do the work/welding for me at a rate of $65/hr. I have no experience at all with body work, don't own a welder but do have a grinder and typical hand tools and am fairly mechanically inclined.

Here's my question. Should I buy a mig welder and do the work myself or would it make more sense to pay my friend to do the work? I am willing to put in the time to do it and could get some advice from other friends as needed. Which makes the most sense financially and practically? Thanks.