Don’t let planning pitfalls get in the way of your big day. Here’s how to stay stress-free and on track.
Planning a wedding is incredibly exciting – but with so many details to think about, it’s easy to make a few missteps along the way. The good news? Most common mistakes are totally avoidable once you know what to look out for. From budgeting blunders to invitation timing, here are the top wedding planning mistakes couples make (and how to dodge them like a pro).
❌ Mistake #1: Ignoring Your Budget
It’s all fun and Pinterest boards until you realise you’ve overspent before you’ve booked the band. Not knowing how much you’ve spent, what’s left, or how to allocate funds can cause major stress. Set a realistic budget early, break it into categories, and track every expense – yes, even the tiny ones.
❌ Mistake #2: Reinventing the Wheel
Planning doesn’t have to be done from scratch. Save time and energy by using tried-and-tested templates, checklists, and planning tools. There are loads of free resources out there – take advantage of them!
❌ Mistake #3: Leaving the Legal Stuff Too Late
It’s easy to get swept up in the romance, but don’t forget: this is also a legal ceremony. Every country has its own rules and timeframes for registering a marriage, and in Ireland, it’s essential to give three months’ notice. Put the paperwork high on your priority list!
Related: How To Get Legally Married In Ireland
❌ Mistake #4: Blowing the Fashion Budget on Just the Dress
Yes, your dress is stunning – but don’t forget about everything that goes with it! Budget for shoes, underwear, a veil, accessories, and alterations. These extras can add up quickly, so plan ahead.
❌ Mistake #5: Leaving Music to the Last Minute
Music creates the mood – don’t leave it as an afterthought. Talk to your singer or band about set lists in advance and coordinate with your ceremony officiant (especially if you’re having a church wedding, where some songs may not be allowed). The right soundtrack can turn moments into memories.
❌ Mistake #6: Planning in a Bubble
Even if you have a great support network, it can be helpful to connect with other couples going through the same thing. Join a wedding planning community for advice, inspiration, and supplier recommendations. You’re not alone in this!
👉 Join Our Planning Community 👈
❌ Mistake #7: Getting Save-the-Date Timing Wrong
Timing your invites is a delicate balance. Send them too early and people might forget. Too late, and guests may not be able to attend. Here’s a quick guide:
Wedding Date: 17th September
RSVP Date on Invite: 1st September
Final Headcount Needed: 10th September
Send Invitations By: 6th August
Six weeks before the wedding is usually perfect!
❌ Mistake #8: Not Asking Enough Questions
Feel awkward asking your suppliers a million questions? Don’t be. Whether it’s about payment terms, timelines, or contingency plans, it’s your big day – you deserve to feel informed and confident every step of the way.
❌ Mistake #9: Trying to Do It All at Once
Wedding overwhelm is real. There’s a lot to plan and it can be hard to know where to start. That’s where a good checklist comes in. Break your tasks down into manageable chunks and give yourself milestones. You don’t need to do it all in a weekend.
Related: Download Our Free 12 Month Wedding Planning Checklist
💡 Pro Tip: Wedding planning doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful. Take it step by step, and remember, the goal is to get married to the love of your life, not to tick every Pinterest box.
