The 5 Biggest Wedding Planning Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them Like a Pro)
Photos by Claire Davie
Planning a wedding is like juggling flaming torches - while blindfolded - on a unicycle - during a cyclone.
But don’t stress. We’ve helped hundreds of couples through the chaos, and we’ve seen a few things. Actually… we’ve seen everything.
Here are the top five mistakes couples make during wedding planning - and how to steer clear of them like the legend you are.
1. Trying to Please Everyone (Spoiler: You Won’t)
You’re not ordering pizza - this isn’t about “something for everyone.”
Between your cousin who hates gluten, your mum who wants to invite the neighbour’s dog, and your aunty who thinks every speech should be 40 minutes long, things can get out of hand quickly.
Do this instead:
Plan a day that feels like you. The people who matter will love it because it’s yours, not because it ticks every traditional box. And honestly? The rest will be too busy eating canapés to care.
2. Booking a Venue That’s Not Really a Wedding Venue
Yes, that winery might look cute. But does it come with staff who know how to run a wedding? Will they set up your ceremony and your reception? What happens if it rains?
Do this instead:
Choose a venue that specialises in weddings. One that knows the flow, the timing, the hiccups, and how to handle everything from rogue toddlers to last-minute seating plan reshuffles.
(We may know one that fits the bill)
3. Skimping on the Stuff That Matters Most to You
Look, budgets are real. But cutting corners on things that genuinely matter to you - whether that’s food, photos, or that late-night espresso martini moment - can leave you with regrets.
Do this instead:
Figure out your non-negotiables early and build your budget around them. Not everything needs to be luxe, but the things that matter most should get the spotlight.
4. Forgetting About the Flow
Some weddings feel like a stop-start dance - you’re either waiting around for something to happen, or sprinting to catch up.
Do this instead:
Plan a seamless experience, not just a timeline. That means:
Drinks straight after the ceremony
Entertainment during photo time
Speeches that don’t drag
Music that matches the energy
Lucky for you, a good venue team (hi there) can help craft that flow like pros.
5. Thinking You Have to Do It Alone
Pinterest is great. Until it isn’t. DIY can save money. Until it doesn’t. And planning a wedding solo? That’s a big old mental load to carry.
Do this instead:
Lean on the people who’ve done it before. Your venue coordinator, your vendors, your married mates. Ask for help, outsource where it makes sense, and remember - you don’t get a medal for doing it all yourself.
(But you do get a killer night if you play it smart.)
Final Word?
Make it fun. Make it yours. And for the love of cake - make it easy on yourself.
We’re here to help you dodge the drama and throw the best damn party of your life.
Come see what stress-free wedding planning actually looks like at The Shearing Shed.