Planning a wedding can be an exciting but overwhelming experience. It’s a time of joy, anticipation, and sometimes a bit of stress. In the midst of the chaos, it’s easy for couples to make mistakes that can have lasting repercussions. Here are four common mistakes that couples make when planning their big day:

1. Rushing the Planning Process

With all the excitement surrounding a wedding, it’s tempting to dive right in and start checking off items on the to-do list. However, rushing through the planning process can lead to oversights and missed opportunities. Take the time to thoroughly research vendors, read reviews, and compare prices. And when looking for that perfect vendor, schedule phone consultations, and ask for insurance. Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations from friends or family members who have recently tied the knot. Taking a thoughtful and measured approach to planning will ensure that you make well-informed decisions.

2. THE DIY ( A BIG ONE )

Doing it yourself is not always a bad thing, it just depends on what you are doing. To many times do I see where a couple took on a chore that just came to be a little to much to handle, or just didn’t end the way they liked. For example,

Hiring a family member or friend as your “wedding coordinator” because they won’t charge you, and they have been married before or have attended a couple of weddings. A lot of the time, they are great at setup, but they lack communication with you, the couple, or other vendors. They are also unfamiliar with how a wedding should go and the order of events. They may not allocate enough time for certain activities or miss out on important events.

Hobby Lobby or Etsy florals, how hard can it be to put some fake flowers together? It’s hard! And you have to not only buy the floral stems but also the tools to make them as well. This can lead to it being very expensive and time-consuming.

Catering your own wedding? “I have a big family, my mom and grandma cook Thanksgiving every year! They can totally do this for my wedding.” Just think about the grocery bill, cooking space, dishes, and clean up after the wedding. Don’t put that on your sweet mom or grandma; let them enjoy the day!

Hiring your friend who wants to learn photography may seem like a nice idea, but there are important considerations to keep in mind. Photography can be expensive for a reason. When hiring a friend who is still learning, it may be best to limit their involvement to your engagement session. It’s crucial to consider whether your friend has the necessary skills to shoot in low light situations if your venue is dark. Additionally, what if their camera malfunctions? Do they know how to efficiently manage a timeline with other professional vendors? Often, photographers take the lead on this, second to the coordinator. Moreover, do they have a reliable backup system in case of computer failure? Entrusting your special moments to a professional photographer might be the most sensible choice. Investing in their expertise will likely prove to be worthwhile in the long run.

3. Neglecting Self-Care

The process of planning a wedding can be all-consuming, leaving little time for self-care. It’s crucial for couples to take breaks and prioritize their well-being throughout the planning journey. Make time for date nights that don’t revolve around wedding discussions. Engage in activities that help you relax and recharge, whether it’s a spa day, a hike in nature, or simply curling up with a good book. Your mental and emotional well-being is just as important as the wedding preparations.

4. Trying to Please Everyone

It’s natural to want your wedding day to be a joyous celebration for everyone involved. However, trying to please everyone can lead to compromises that may not align with your vision or desires. Remember that this day is ultimately about you and your partner. While it’s important to consider the needs and preferences of your loved ones, don’t lose sight of what truly matters to you. Stay true to yourselves and make choices that reflect your unique love story. Your authentic happiness will shine through and create a memorable experience for all.

5. Hiring Vendors Last Minute

Certainly! Planning a wedding can be an exciting, yet overwhelming experience. When it comes to hiring vendors, timing is crucial. You’ll want to start the process well in advance to ensure you secure the best professionals for your special day.

As a general rule of thumb, it’s advisable to book your vendors at least 6 to 8 months ahead of your wedding date. However, it’s not uncommon for couples to start booking their vendors over a year in advance, especially for popular venues and in-demand vendors.

Focus on hiring your other key vendors, such as the wedding planner, photographer, videographer, and caterer. These professionals are essential to capturing and documenting your wedding day. Other vendors to consider include the florist, entertainment (such as a DJ or live band), hair and makeup artist, and transportation provider, among others. Keep in mind that each vendor may have different booking timelines and requirements, so it’s essential to reach out to them as soon as possible to secure their services.

By booking your vendors well in advance, you’ll have a better chance of snagging your top choices and avoiding disappointment. Plus, it allows you to build relationships with your vendors over time, ensuring they understand your expectations and can tailor their services to meet your needs.

venue: Still Meadows Weddings and Events