photo credit: Lum3n
We understand how overwhelming wedding planning can be. Even the most hands-on bride and groom admit that planning their big day is not always smooth sailing, with setbacks and unexpected turns popping up along the way. While challenges are a normal part of the fun, there are still a few wedding planning mistakes that couples often make that, if avoided, can help you keep on top of everything and reduce unnecessary stress. We’ve compiled a list of some of the most common (and avoidable) wedding planning mistakes and how not to make them. Take note of these tips and enjoy a (hopefully) stress-free wedding!
Common Wedding Planning Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Not setting (and sticking to) a budget
Your wedding budget will impact every aspect of your special day, including the venue, catering service, clothing, guest count, wedding photography, and more. Without a clear budget, expenses can quickly burst out of control, exceeding available funds in certain aspects and neglecting others. This can leave you and your partner stressed and financially strained, forcing you to incur unexpected expenses or compromise on some areas of your wedding.
To prevent this from happening, sit down with your partner at the beginning of the wedding planning process and start setting a realistic budget based on your financial situation and priorities. You could also consider taking cost-saving measures, such as using budget management apps to track your expenses or opting for off-peak wedding dates to help stretch the budget further.
Handling everything yourself
While it is natural to want to have complete control over your most important day as a couple, trying to do everything yourself can lead to burnout. Also, a multitude of responsibilities can easily slip through the cracks when trying to do it all alone. This can not only result in last-minute stress but can also lead to mishaps on the wedding day.
So, if you know someone who is a wedding cake supplier, does floristry or owns a wedding videography business, ask for help! If you don’t know anyone in the industry, do some research and reach out to a professional.
Shopping for a wedding dress too early
After announcing your engagement, it is indeed tempting to quickly turn to your favorite wedding magazine, bridal resources, browse Pinterest, or follow wedding brand accounts on Facebook and Instagram for some wedding dress inspiration. While it is incredibly exciting to do so, remember not to rush yourself into purchasing a wedding dress. Trends may change, body shapes may fluctuate, and wedding themes might evolve. If you secure your wedding dress without considering these factors, then the dress may potentially not suit the style of the celebration when it comes to the big day.
Before booking your appointment at the bridal shop, make sure to iron out your contract with the venue and agree upon your wedding’s color scheme.
Looking for a photographer and videographer at the last minute.
Reputable photographers and videographers often book up months or even years in advance, especially during peak wedding seasons. By waiting until the last minute, you can risk missing out on your top choices and may end up settling for a less-than-ideal option. To avoid this mistake, it’s recommended to prioritize the search for a photographer and videographer early in the planning process, allowing adequate time to research, compare portfolios, and hire a team that suits your preferences.
As you plan your most-awaited event, it is important to be mindful of the common pitfalls that many other couples encounter. By being aware of these common wedding planning mistakes, you can steer clear of unexpected challenges and ensure a stress-free celebration.
photo credit: Melike Benli
