4 Mistakes to Avoid When Planning Your Wedding Day
When planning a wedding, there are many things to think through and consider. And it can be overwhelming! But, have no fear! I have listed out the top mistakes you should avoid while planning your wedding day. These will help immensely and you can be certain that your stress level on the day of will be WAY lower.
Mistake 1: Not Having a Polished Wedding Timeline with Any Buffer Time
Creating a wedding day timeline is essential. Not only does this give you peace of mind, but ensures everyone is on the same page. But you might be asking yourself “How much time does everything actually take?” You have getting read time, ceremony length, family photos, and more to fit into your day.
This is where leveraging your wedding photographer comes into play. Think about it, your photographer has been to so many weddings from beginning to end. They can provide quite a bit of insight into how long you actually should set aside for each element of your wedding. I always encourage my brides to also set aside time to slow down and breathe. These moments are so precious on a wedding day, and if it works, build it into your day, you won’t regret it.
Basically, when you’re planning out a generalized wedding day timeline, don’t always fill in the gaps of time. You would rather be ahead of schedule than behind anyhow.
Mistake 2: Booking Just Any Wedding Photographer
It cannot be emphasized enough that having a great photographer is an important part of your wedding day. Out of all the vendors you will hire, your wedding photographer will literally be by your side most of the day. Shouldn’t you like them and their presence? Feel like they could be a close friend or confidant?
Obviously us wedding photographers want you to love the style of photography we create. But when it comes to good photography, when I know someone and vice versa, the photos look more natural and have an ease about them. I thrive on catching organic, natural moments between you and your future spouse.
How can you ensure you will be comfortable on your wedding day with your photographer? Setting up video calls or meetings in person and having an engagement session are the best ways. I do my best, with little tricks, music in the background, and jokes to make you feel like you aren’t even in front of the camera.
Mistake 3: Not Utilizing Your Maid Of Honor
Being the Maid of Honor (MOH) is truly an honor (pun intended). But seriously, to be the one to walk by your side throughout the day is something special. And your MOH should be there to help you with everything. It’s important to communicate with your MOH what you need from them on your wedding day.
Beyond emotional support, I’m talking about the small things like: making sure you drink water, eat snacks, keep you focused on what this special day is all about, and fighting off fires in the background. Having a conversation with your MOH about your needs on that day, will allow them to support you best and allow you to enjoy your wedding day without a care in the world.
Mistake 4: Not Having Anyone to Facilitate the Flow of the Day
Wedding coordinators/planners… Do you need one? Can you go without? 100% of the time you cannot go without. Having someone who is running the show for you is invaluable. Since you shouldn’t be the one worried about staying on schedule or monitoring if the caterer actually showed up.
Your wedding coordinator is the one acting as your brain and bringing your dream wedding to life on your special day. Don’t be afraid to step back and trust their expertise and judgement when it comes to some of the details of the day. You also don’t have to hire a coordinator. Do you know a close friend or family member who loves organizing, directing, and keeping everything moving smoothly? Ask if you can use their talents for your wedding (and make sure you don’t mind them taking charge).
I’m telling you, as someone who has been to more weddings than I can count, your life will be so much better if you avoid these mistakes. Plan in buffer time to that wedding timeline, book a photographer you love and trust, utilize your Maid of Honor, and designate or hire that coordinator so you can enjoy. I guarantee that you will be much less stressed.
