My Weddings Regrets

Whether you wish you would have had a getaway car or you didn’t feel the need for a flower toss, here’s a look at some of the most common regrets brides report, along with tips to avoid them on your special day. Planning your wedding is an exhilarating journey, but it’s not uncommon for newlyweds to reflect and wish they had done things differently. In fact, according to recent surveys, many couples experience post-wedding regrets about their budget choices, vendor selection, and overlooked details.

A 2023 Credello survey revealed that 20% of couples found their wedding unnecessarily expensive. Among younger couples, 29% of Gen Z and 25% of Millennials reported regrets about their financial decisions, particularly on decor, venues, and other non-essential expenses​ (Credello). We actively engage with our brides by regularly collecting feedback and insights to ensure that each new couple benefits from the experiences of those who came before them. This continuous flow of information helps us provide tailored advice, troubleshoot potential issues, and ensure a smooth and stress-free wedding planning process for all our clients. By listening to our brides, we can refine our approach and guide future couples toward creating their perfect day with confidence.

Top Wedding Regrets

1. Skipping a High-Quality Photographer
   Nearly a quarter of brides regret not investing in a skilled photographer, as poor photography can mean lost opportunities to preserve priceless moments. Many couples exhaust their budgets on the venue or decor, leaving insufficient funds for professional photography, a decision they often regret later when memories fade.​

   Solution: Prioritize your photographer in your budget. Review portfolios and choose someone whose style resonates with you.

2. The Unused Pastry Table
   Extravagant dessert tables are tempting, but many couples regret spending on sweets that go largely untouched. Overestimating how much your guests will indulge can leave you with wasted treats—and wasted money.

   Solution: Opt for a smaller selection of high-quality desserts or consider alternatives like a single standout cake.

3. Partying too hard at the Welcome Party

   One common regret shared by brides is overdoing it with the alcohol and partying during the welcome event or pre-wedding celebration. While it’s natural to want to let loose before the big day, overindulgence can leave guests (and even the couple) too tired to enjoy the actual wedding. Several brides have admitted that excessive partying before the wedding affected their energy levels during the main event.

   Solution: Consider hosting a daytime celebration with lighter options. Instead of a late-night, alcohol-heavy affair, opt for a relaxed gathering featuring signature cocktails or mocktails, paired with finger foods or appetizers. This creates a laid-back atmosphere, allowing everyone to enjoy themselves without overindulging. A moderate approach keeps the energy levels high and ensures that both you and your guests stay refreshed for the wedding itself. Hosting earlier in the day or during early evening also helps maintain the right vibe, ensuring no one is too tired to fully enjoy your wedding day.

4. First Dance
   While traditional wedding customs like the first dance can feel like must-dos, if they don’t resonate with you, it can feel out of place and uncomfortable. According to wedding experts, many brides regret going through with the first dance simply because they felt it was expected of them, not because they genuinely wanted it.

   
   Solution: If you're not feeling the first dance, the solution is simple: make your wedding reflect your true style. A growing number of couples are breaking from tradition and finding alternative ways to celebrate that feel more authentic to them​

   • Group Dance – Invite everyone to join in on the dance floor. Whether it’s a fun line dance, a choreographed flash mob, or a general free-for-all, a group dance can help everyone feel included and create lasting memories.

   • Family or Friends’ Dance – If you don’t want to skip the tradition entirely, but a solo dance feels uncomfortable, consider dancing with a close family member or friends. This can make the moment more meaningful and personal.

   • A Special Song or Moment – If you love music but not the idea of dancing, consider a meaningful song played during a quiet, intimate moment—whether it’s a toast or as you walk down the aisle.

   • Skip It Altogether – Many couples are opting to skip the first dance and head straight into enjoying their celebration. You can use this time to greet your guests, take photos, or just enjoy your new spouse's company..

Tips for a Regret-Free Wedding

1. Set Priorities Early
   Make a list of must-haves (e.g., photographer, venue, catering) and allocate your budget accordingly. Avoid over-spending on trendy extras unless they genuinely enhance your experience.

2. Consult Professionals
   Hiring a wedding planner or design consultants experienced in vendor relations to help avoid common pitfalls and ensure your day runs smoothly.

3. Capture the Essentials
   From candid moments to the first dance, ensure you hire professionals to document these timeless memories.

4. Think About What Geniunely Make You Happy

   When planning your wedding, remember that what genuinely makes you happy should be the central guiding force. You don't have to follow the traditional wedding blueprint or fit the mold of what every bride before you has done. The day and evening are yours to design exactly as you'd like. If you're not into the flower toss, first dance, or cake cutting, don't feel obligated to include them. These are traditions meant to be chosen if they resonate with you—not rules that must be followed.

Tailor your celebration to what feels authentic and joyful for you and your partner. After all, it’s your day, and it should reflect your unique relationship and personal style. Focus on what will make you happiest, whether it's skipping certain traditions or introducing new, meaningful touches that are all your own. By making thoughtful decisions and consulting experts, you can minimize regrets and savor every moment of your big day. Remember: Your wedding is a celebration of your love story, and the choices you make should reflect your values, not societal pressure. By staying connected with our brides and continuously gathering feedback, we ensure that we are always evolving and refining our approach to wedding planning. This ongoing communication helps us pass on invaluable insights, making sure each new couple feels confident and prepared for their special day. With this feedback loop in place, we can deliver a seamless experience and guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your wedding day is everything you’ve dreamed of and more.