Here’s What Not to Do When Planning Your Wedding

Hello, or should I say hello to 2025? Whether you’ve just got engaged (congratulations!) or are finalising your wedding plans for 2025, welcome to this blog post.

Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting and unforgettable experiences, but if I’m being honest, it can feel like a lot.

If you’re newly engaged (congrats!), and just stepping into your wedding plans, please take your time before rushing with any key decisions. This is such a special time, but it’s also one filled with big decisions, from choosing key suppliers to making small decisions that will make your day unforgettable. And yes, some of those choices will be major financial commitments… After all, this might just be one of the biggest investments of your life. 

But don’t stress! You’re in the right place, and I’m here to help with your wedding planning. Whether you’re unsure where to start or you’re determined to avoid any wedding-day slip-ups, this blog will help you avoid the top wedding planning mistakes. Trust me, a few thoughtful decisions now can save you a whole lot of stress later.

As a London wedding planner specialising in chic, unforgettable celebrations across the UK and Europe, I’ve seen it all. To help you avoid the most common wedding planning mistakes, I’ve rounded up 10 key points every couple should consider. Whether you’re hosting a modern city wedding here in London, or a destination wedding weekend in Greece, these expert wedding planning tips will help keep you on track!

Not Setting (and Sticking to) a Realistic Budget

It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of wedding planning, but without a clear budget, costs can spiral (very!) quickly. It’s time to sit down and map out what’s most important to you. Whether it’s your wedding venue, food, or an epic band and live music, allocate your budget accordingly. Be realistic about any hidden costs like supplier meals, service charges, and any alterations.

Another key wedding budget element is not having a budget contingency! Even if it’s just 5% of your overall wedding budget, always try to allocate a little extra. This helps if any unexpected costs pop up (because they usually do!). This won’t be critical if you are working with an experienced wedding planner, because they will fully manage your wedding budget ensuring every penny is well spent.

Skipping the Wedding Planner

On that note… Don’t skip the wedding planner!

Thinking of DIY-ing your wedding? While Pinterest makes it look easy, coordinating everything on your own can lead to stress (and burnout). A wedding planner brings so much invaluable experience, wedding supplier connections and creative ideas to the table.

Not Having a Wedding Day Timeline

Your wedding day is a whirlwind, and without a detailed timeline, things can quickly fall behind schedule. From getting ready in the morning to ensuring the band starts at the right time, a clear schedule keeps everyone on track. Share the timeline with key vendors and bridal party members in advance to avoid confusion. 

An Early Ceremony

This is something Wedding Planners just hate… Planning your wedding ceremony too early in the day can leave guests waiting around for hours before the reception. While you want time for photos and mingling, it’s important to keep the flow of the day enjoyable. Work with your venue and wedding planner to create a timeline that works for you, considering the guest experience throughout.

Pro Tip: Always factor in travel times, especially for London weddings where traffic can cause delays. 

Skipping a Ceremony Rehearsal

Even if your ceremony seems straightforward, a rehearsal is key to ensuring everyone knows where to go and what to do. This is especially true for larger wedding parties or unique venues with lots of moving parts. Rehearsals help ease nerves, avoid awkward pauses, and ensure everyone’s confident on the day. 

Ending the Party Too Early

Let’s be real… No one wants to be a party pooper!

A great party is all about the energy, and nothing kills the vibe faster than wrapping up too soon. Guests love to party, have a good time and celebrate with you. We love it when our couples extend the party by an hour or two, or even better, host a wedding-after party. Many London wedding venues and London wedding suppliers offer flexible options for later finishes. Just make sure to check their policies ahead of time. 

Not Thinking About Guest Experience

Your wedding isn’t just about you, it’s also about your guests. From ensuring there’s plenty of food and drinks to creating a seamless flow throughout the day, keeping your guests’ comfort in mind is key. Little details, like clear signage, plenty of seating, and thoughtful favours, can make a big difference. 

Pro Tip: Music can make or break the vibe of your wedding party. Ensure your band or DJ has a set list that caters to all ages and gets everyone on the dance floor. 

Rushing Guests Between Events

No one wants to feel hurried on your wedding day, especially your guests. Whether it’s rushing from the ceremony to the reception or speeding through dinner, make sure there’s enough time for everyone to relax and enjoy themselves. A cocktail hour with drinks and canapés is the perfect solution. It gives your guests a chance to relax and mingle while you sneak off for photos or take a few precious moments to soak in that just-married feeling! Please, please, please factor in some “you” time into your wedding day schedule. I promise you’ll thank me later.

Not Prioritising Bridal Beauty Trials

Your wedding photos will last a lifetime, so feeling confident in your bridal look is non-negotiable. Skipping a hair or makeup trial, or making last-minute changes is a major no. Your bridal trial is an opportunity to see your desired bridal look and ensures everything complements your bridal attire, vibe and unique style.

Pro Tip: Avoid introducing new products or drastic beauty changes (like facials or haircuts) right before the wedding to prevent unexpected reactions. 

Overlooking the "What Ifs"

No one likes to think about what could go wrong, but having backup plans is a must. From unpredictable UK weather (hello, rain!) to last-minute supplier changes, being prepared for contingencies will give you peace of mind. 

It’s also really important to prepare for the practicalities of hosting a destination wedding in a hot climate. Lack of water, minimal shade, and unpredictable weather can quickly turn uncomfortable for both you and your guests.  Make sure there’s plenty of bottled water readily available throughout the day (stylishly displayed hydration stations are a bonus!) and consider providing fans and parasols. If your ceremony is outdoors, opt for shaded areas or plan it during the cooler parts of the day, like late afternoon or early evening. 

Wherever your wedding is, planning a wedding can feel like a huge project! But with careful preparation and the right team of wedding suppliers, your dream wedding is 100% achievable. Avoid these common mistakes, stay organised, and focus on what truly matters! Celebrating your love in style.  Because, everything you can imagine is real.

If you’re looking for the help of an experienced UK Wedding Planner, check out Rebecca Valentine Design Wedding Planning Services, or get in touch to start your wedding planning. Let’s chat - coffee or cocktails, the choice is yours!

Wedding Supplier Credits:

London Wedding - Lincoln Pictures

Make up bridal image - Amy Sampson photography

London Wedding Shoot - Planning & Design: @rebeccavalentinedesign, Organisers: @allthingsbridal, Photographer: @joshuawoodlandphoto, Bridal Dress: @lum_bridal, Accessories: @1940bridal, Stylist: @lucyiscrew, Hair & Makeup Artist: @allthingsbridal_