This list is for couples going it alone and not working with a planner, if you're having a Flamingo and Fern wedding, you can skip this list and relax as we'll have everything in hand.
Planning a wedding can be an exciting but challenging task. To ensure your big day goes smoothly, here are some common wedding planning mistakes to avoid:
You're not putting yourself first: Before thinking about how much you want to spend or what your day might look like, you need to know how you want it to feel. Do you want a casual day with everyone you know or is a smaller, more fancy affair with just a few close family. We ask our couples to choose three words to decide how their day will feel.
Not setting a budget: One of the biggest mistakes is not establishing a clear budget from the start. Decide together and work out how much you can afford and allocate funds accordingly for each aspect of the wedding. Now might be a good time to book a power hour with a planner to have a quick chat about a realistic budget to set you on the right track for the rest of your planning journey.
Overlooking guest list management: Be selective about your guest list. Inviting too many people can lead to higher costs and more logistical challenges. Make sure your venue can comfortably accommodate your guest count.
Choosing the wrong venue: Selecting a venue that doesn't align with your vision or doesn't accommodate your guest count can be a very costly mistake. Always visit potential venues and ask questions before booking.
Ignoring the weather: If you're planning an outdoor wedding, have a backup plan in case of bad weather. Don't assume the weather will cooperate on your special day.
Not prioritising what matters most: Determine what aspects of the wedding are most important to you and your partner. Focus your budget and attention on those elements and be willing to compromise on less important details.
Procrastinating: Waiting until the last minute to book suppliers, order decorations, or make decisions can lead to added stress and limited options. Start planning early to secure the your favourite suppliers and avoid unnecessary pressure or disappointment.
Underestimating DIY projects: DIY projects can be a great way to personalize your wedding, but they can also be time-consuming and stressful. Don't take on too much, and be realistic about your DIY abilities.
Not reading contracts: Always read and understand vendor contracts before signing. Pay attention to cancellation policies, payment schedules, and any hidden fees to avoid surprises later.
Overlooking the small details: It's easy to get caught up in the big picture, but small details like table settings, signage, and simple organisation can make a big difference in the overall experience for your guests.
Neglecting guest comfort: Consider your guests' comfort, especially for outdoor weddings. Provide shade, seating, and refreshments to keep everyone comfortable throughout the day. Think about any young children or older guests requirements.
Ignoring dietary requirements: Be sure to ask your guests about any dietary requirements and allergies when sending out invitations. Plan your menu accordingly to accommodate their needs and make sure there is a suitable option for them. If you skip this step, it will only cause issues on the day when they ask for a special meal which potentially isn't possible from your caterer at short notice.
Micromanaging: While it's important to have a clear vision for your wedding, try to avoid micromanaging every detail. If you've booked suppliers you love, trust your them to do their jobs and focus on enjoying your day.
Overextending Yourself: Wedding planning can be stressful, so don't try to do everything yourself. Delegate tasks to trusted friends or family members, or consider hiring a wedding planner if it's getting to be too much for you.
Not communicating clearly: Effective communication is crucial with your partner, supplier, your wedding party, family members and anyone else involved. Make sure everyone is on the same page to avoid misunderstandings.
Not taking time for yourself: Amidst all the planning, don't forget to take breaks and spend quality time with your partner. Wedding planning can be intense, so make sure to nurture your relationship throughout the process.
Remember that your wedding should be a reflection of you and your partner's love and commitment. Avoiding these common mistakes will help ensure that your special day runs smoothly and is a memorable experience for everyone involved.
