Top wedding fails
A wedding planner reveals the most common mistakes couples make when planning their big day.
I’ve seen it all over the years,” says wedding planner and stylist Suzanne Carson. “Weddings that went off without a hitch and others where, if something could go wrong, it did. The Christchurch earthquakes are a good example. I was staging a wedding and suddenly needed a new venue and catering when the Christchurch Gondola was red tagged. I had to move quickly for celebrations to proceed. Nerves were tender as aftershocks continued but the couple, Karry and Tobi, were happy and looked gorgeous.”
Here’s Suzanne’s list of the biggest fails when planning a wedding:
Not budgeting from the get-go:
Wedding budgets are not bottomless. Many couples start booking vendors before knowing all the costs for the day. Accruing debt is not a great way to start a life together.
Hastily booking a venue:
Many couples rush to book a venue before checking it’s the perfect venue for them. Consider visual appeal, a layout appropriate for the type of wedding, size of the guest list, and budget.
Not hiring professionals
Relying on friends instead of experienced vendors – like DJs, photographers, or co-ordinators – can backfire badly. Professionals know how to handle the unexpected; their experience is invaluable.
Trying to please everyone
From your guest list to dress choice and wedding styling, trying to make everyone happy leads to decision fatigue, diluted vision and disappointment. Remember it is your day.
Ignoring the guest experience
Guests who are too hot, too hungry, or too confused about where to go won’t be having fun. Think about their comfort and flow.
Letting trends take over
It’s easy to get swept up with what’s in or what your favourite celebrity did at their wedding, but your wedding should reflect
you and your personality, not just what’s trending on social media.
Suzanne Carson has been planning weddings for more than 20 years.
Go to weddingprofessionals.co.nz
