Planning a wedding is kind of like putting on a Broadway show, except you’re starring, directing, and somehow catering it too. It’s a big deal, and mistakes happen! But don’t worry, I’ve got your back. Here are seven common blunders and how to sidestep them with the grace of a bride avoiding rain on her wedding day.
1. Overloading Your To-Do List
Let’s get real: You’re not a superhero. Even Wonder Woman would probably hire a wedding planner. Trying to DIY everything is like signing up for a marathon with flip-flops on. You’ll burn out before you even hit the cake tasting.
Avoid it: Focus on your strengths (you know, like picking stunning Pinterest-worthy color palettes) and outsource the rest. Friends and family are great for things like envelope stuffing or opinion-giving. Lean into it.
2. Forgetting the Budget (aka “Champagne Dreams on a Beer Budget”)
It’s easy to get carried away. Suddenly, your “simple wedding” is sporting floral arches that belong in a royal garden and a 12-piece orchestra. Meanwhile, your bank account is sobbing softly in the corner.
Avoid it: Be honest about what you can afford and stick to it. A spreadsheet is your best friend here. Also, remember: DIY doesn’t always save money, especially when glue guns get involved.
3. Ignoring the Weather
Oh, you thought a summer wedding guaranteed sunshine? Adorable. Weather loves surprises. Your idyllic beach ceremony could turn into a wind-blown nightmare if you’re not careful.
Avoid it: Have a Plan B. Seriously, a rain backup isn’t just for pessimists—it’s for prepared optimists. Bonus tip: Don’t forget umbrellas. Cute ones, preferably.
4. Skipping the Guest List Reality Check
Here’s the thing about weddings: You can’t invite everyone. Yes, even your mom’s second cousin twice removed. If you’re not careful, your intimate gathering could balloon into a festival.
Avoid it: Decide on your “core group” first—your must-haves. Then trim the extras mercilessly. Your budget and your sanity will thank you. Pro tip: Politely ignoring unsolicited guest list suggestions is an art form.
5. Neglecting Vendor Research
Hiring the first florist you find on Instagram? Bold move. Vendors are the backbone of your big day, and the wrong ones can turn your dream wedding into a cautionary tale.
Avoid it: Check reviews, ask for references, and always—always—have a contract. The last thing you want is a DJ who plays “Macarena” on repeat (unless that’s your vibe, in which case, party on).
6. Overthinking Every Decision
Analysis paralysis is real. Do the tablecloths really need to match the bridesmaids’ eyes? Probably not.
Avoid it: Pick your battles. Focus on the stuff that truly matters—like the food, music, and whether your dress fits like a glove. The rest? It’s gravy. (Delicious, stress-free gravy.)
7. Forgetting to Have Fun
This one’s a heartbreaker. In the chaos of planning, it’s easy to forget why you’re doing this: to celebrate love. Don’t let your big day become a stress marathon.
Avoid it: Take breaks, laugh at the mishaps, and remember that at the end of the day, you’re marrying your person. That’s what really counts—bad dance moves and all.
Final Thoughts
Wedding planning is a wild ride, but it doesn’t have to be a one-way ticket to Stressville. By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll glide into your big day feeling like the rockstar you are. And hey, even if things go a little sideways, you’ll have a great story to tell. Because isn’t that what weddings are all about?
