Not setting a budget - It’s so easy to get carried away, there are so many choices to be made and often it’s the smaller purchases, the favours, the decorations, the candy bar, or stationery that can end in tears. Set a realistic budget and have a talk early on as a couple about your “deal breakers”, what you really want to pull out all the stops on.



My friend is going to take photos at my wedding - As a celebrant there is a huge difference between officiating at a wedding where a professional photographer is documenting the event and those where the photographer is an enthusiastic amateur. Usually the first difference is that I am totally unaware of the professional at work, they are unobtrusive and make the best use of their equipment to get in close. The amateur on the other hand is in my face, standing in front of guests and asking for the kiss / ring exchange / signing to be repeated so they can capture it. Word of Warning - if you hire an amateur for your wedding, expect an amateur result!

Not listening to your Experienced Wedding Vendor - There has been a lot of hype about “wedding mark up” and often vendors are seen as money grabbing opportunists. The truth is vendors may charge more for a wedding because a wedding is more work than other events. Your wedding vendor makes themselves available for calls, consultations and planning meetings and may send dozens of emails back and forth with their clients before the event. Most of all they are committed to making your wedding a success, after all, their reputation depends on it.Listen to your wedding vendor’s advice, they’ve been involved in hundreds of weddings and they know from experience what works and what doesn’t. Trust their knowledge and experience and draw on it.

Not considering your guests – Most weddings take place in the height of summer at a gorgeous outdoor venue. Remember whatever the weather conditions your guests will be out in them longer than you will. If you have no shade, consider hiring umbrellas for your guests or suggesting they bring their own hats or umbrellas. Consider having handbag fans for guests and/or bottle water on hand to keep them hydrated. even a couple of tubs of sunscreen will be much appreciated by your guests.

Make sure you have a “Plan B” in case of rain or the unforseen cold snap and ensure you have a Plan B communication plan for your guests. If your ceremony site is a little hard to find include a map in your invitation or your wedding website or Facebook page, and if it’s a little off the beaten track then some quirky road sings will build the anticipation and guests won’t get lost.

Being late for your own wedding - Keeping your guests waiting especially on a hot summer’s day, will not impress them. In addition a late bride means a late ceremony, a late reception, less time for post ceremony photos and over cooked or cold food. Put together a run sheet to ensure your preparation before your ceremony is planned and everyone involved in your wedding party knows what has to be accomplished before that walk down the aisle.

It’s easy to avoid these potential disasters with good planning and making great choices. Your wedding professionals will be an invaluable source of advice and experience if you need clarification or guidance.