Planning a wedding is exciting, but let’s be honest—it can also be overwhelming. With so many moving parts, it’s easy to overlook a few things that could make a big difference to your day. But don’t worry, I’ve got you! Here are five common wedding mistakes we see all the time—and how you can avoid them for a stress-free, joy-filled day.

1. Not Allowing Enough Time for Photos

We totally get it—you don’t want to spend your whole wedding day posing for pictures. But trust me, if your timeline is too tight, things can start to feel rushed, and that stress can show in your photos.

How to Avoid It:

Work with your photographer to build a timeline that feels relaxed but still gives you space to capture those beautiful, natural moments. Add buffer time between events, and if you want a slow, intimate vibe for your portraits, schedule them at a time when you’re not feeling pulled in a million directions.

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2. Underestimating the Power of Good Lighting

Lighting can make or break your photos. Harsh midday sun? Tricky. Dimly lit venues? Could be moody or just…dark. The right lighting sets the tone for your photos and can seriously elevate how everything looks.

How to Avoid It:

Talk to your photographer about the best time for your ceremony and portraits. Golden hour (just before sunset) is a game-changer for dreamy, glowing photos. If you’re having an indoor ceremony, consider adding extra candles or warm lighting to create the perfect atmosphere.

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3. Forgetting a Weather Backup Plan

Ah, British weather—the ultimate wildcard. You might be dreaming of an outdoor ceremony, but let’s be real, the weather doesn’t always play nice.

How to Avoid It:

Have a solid Plan B in place. Whether it’s a tent, an indoor option, or a stack of cute umbrellas, make sure you’re covered (literally). That way, if the rain does show up, you’ll be prepared instead of panicking.

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4. Skipping a Golden Hour Escape

Golden hour—the time just before sunset when the light is soft, warm, and magic. It’s hands down one of the best times to capture relaxed, intimate portraits, but many couples don’t plan for it in their schedule.

How to Avoid It:

Set aside 10-15 minutes in the evening to sneak away for some golden hour portraits. Not only will you get some of the best photos of the day, but it’s also a perfect chance to step back, breathe, and soak in the moment together.

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5. Not Being Present

It’s so easy to get caught up in the little things—whether it’s the timeline, the décor, or that one button that popped off your dress. But at the end of the day, the best moments happen when you’re fully in them.

How to Avoid It:

Trust your team, let go of the small stuff, and focus on what really matters—marrying your person and having the best day ever. The most beautiful, authentic photos come from real emotions, so be in the moment, laugh, cry, dance, and just enjoy it all.

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Final Thoughts

Planning a wedding is a big deal, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll set yourself up for a day that’s not just stunning in photos—but also stress-free and full of joy.

💡 Planning your wedding? Save this post or share it with a friend who needs it! And if you’re looking for a photographer who’ll capture all the real, unfiltered, joy-filled moments—let’s chat!