Planning a wedding is stressful. You have to coordinate so many different elements, from the venue to the cake to the flowers. It’s easy to make mistakes—and even easier to feel like you’ve made mistakes—so here’s a handy list of seven common planning mistakes from your trusty Wisconsin and Minnesota Planners.
1. Not Getting An Actual Contract
Never underestimate the power of a written contract. It’s more than just a formality; it’s your peace of mind. These contracts should outline every detail, from the date and time of service to cancellation policies and payment schedules. Having everything in writing prevents miscommunications and sets clear expectations for both parties. It’s especially crucial for elements that are integral to your day – think photographers, caterers, and musicians. This way, if a vendor doesn’t deliver as promised, you have a legally binding document to back up any necessary actions.
Contracts are your safety net. Every vendor, from photographers to caterers, should provide a signed contract detailing their services, costs, and timelines. This protects your interests and ensures everyone is on the same page, preventing any unpleasant surprises.
2. People Pleasing
It’s natural to want your guests to have a great time, but not at the expense of your own joy and vision. Couples often regret sidelining their preferences to accommodate others. Remember, your wedding is a reflection of YOU and YOUR love story.
Whether it’s choosing your favorite cuisine over traditional options or opting for a non-conventional venue, prioritize what feels authentic to you. When you plan a wedding that’s true to your heart, it creates an atmosphere of genuine happiness that your guests will undoubtedly enjoy. Like most things, when you have so many people in one place, it’s really hard to make sure all 150+ people are happy with every single thing. Someone will always have an opinion…
It’s also important not to get caught up in what others think about your wedding plans – after all, no one else has as much invested in making sure everything goes perfectly as you do!
So do yourself a favor: stop worrying so much about pleasing others (I know, it’s so hard as Midwesterners)! You’ll be so glad you did it for you.
3. Avoiding Difficult Money Conversations
You know that money is a touchy subject in most families. But if you don’t discuss it with them early on, there’s a good chance that you will have to deal with the consequences later on. When it comes to the wedding planning process, things can get even more complicated when emotions and expectations come into play. It’s better to get it out in the open and then move forward after everyone has had their say. If you are upfront about your budget and expectations from the start, then there won’t be any surprises down the road!
We actually wrote 2 blog posts over this – you can check out part one and two here!
4. Not Having Fun!
Stress is the biggest regret of many brides. Why? Because it causes them to make rash decisions, forget important dates, and even cause analysis paralysis. Stress can also lead to you feeling like it’s not worth all the money you are spending on your wedding day, which will ultimately make the day less fun and more stressful than necessary.
Stress can take a toll, not just on your wedding planning experience but on your overall well-being. It’s crucial to keep stress in check to make informed, thoughtful decisions.
Remember, it’s okay to step back and take a break when things get overwhelming. Consider enlisting the help of a professional planner to alleviate some of the burdens. We can handle the nitty-gritty details, allowing you to focus on the fun aspects of planning your big day.
And remember, the most important part of your day is not that everything goes absolutely perfectly, but rather that you get to marry the love of your life!
5. Neglecting Time Together
Amid the whirlwind of wedding planning, it’s easy to get so caught up in the details of their big day that they forget to nurture their relationship. It’s crucial to remember that the engagement period isn’t just about planning a wedding; it’s about preparing for a marriage. Taking time to connect with each other, beyond wedding discussions, is vital for laying a strong foundation for your future together.
In the hustle and bustle of vendor meetings and dress fittings, set aside regular ‘wedding-free’ time where you focus on each other. Whether it’s date nights, weekend getaways, or just quiet evenings at home, these moments allow you to relax and remember why you’re getting married in the first place. This practice helps in maintaining a healthy balance between your wedding preparations and your relationship, ensuring that your bond continues to strengthen even as you plan for the big day.
It’s also important to communicate openly about your feelings, expectations, and any stress you’re experiencing. This openness fosters a deeper understanding and supports a strong, resilient partnership, ready to tackle not just wedding planning, but all of life’s adventures ahead.
In essence, the engagement period is a golden opportunity to deepen your connection and build a robust foundation for your marriage. By prioritizing quality time together, you’re not just planning a wedding, you’re cultivating a relationship that’s meant to last a lifetime.
6. Choosing the Wrong Venue
Choosing the wrong venue can be an expensive mistake. If you choose a venue that is too large or expensive, you’ll incur extra costs for hiring additional staff, which can add up quickly. On the other hand, if the venue is too small, guests may feel crowded and uncomfortable. Also remember that many venues have restrictions on when they can be used: some may require events to happen during daylight hours or may not allow alcohol consumption during certain times of day/night.
7. Trying to Do It All Yourself
There are two major drawbacks to taking on too much yourself. Firstly, it’s incredibly time-consuming. Those hours spent fussing over centerpieces could be better used elsewhere.
Secondly, DIY doesn’t always mean cost-effective, especially if it’s not in your wheelhouse. Leveraging the talents of your friends and family can be a game-changer.
Imagine the relief and confidence that comes from having wedding professionals by your side. We bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to your big day. We know the ins and outs of the industry, from the latest trends in décor to the best ways to maximize your budget.
Professionals can turn your vision into reality while tackling any challenge that comes their way. This not only ensures a smoothly run event but also allows you to relax and soak in every precious moment of your special day, knowing that every detail is handled with professional care.
Conclusion
As you embark on the exciting journey of wedding planning, remember that avoiding these common pitfalls is key to a stress-free and joyful experience.
And don’t forget, amidst all the planning, to cherish and nurture your relationship. At Olive Branch Events Co., we believe in not just creating a beautiful wedding day but also in supporting the growth of strong, loving partnerships.
Let us help you manage the details, so you can focus on what truly matters – each other. Reach out to us, and let’s create a wedding experience that marks the beginning of a beautiful, lifelong adventure together.
Vendor Credits
Coordination: @olivebrancheventsco
Photography: Ali Lockery Kemp
Venue: Tinsmith Events
Florals: Lily Forest Designs
