Planning a wedding can feel like a dream come true—but it can also become a stress-fueled whirlwind if you’re not careful.
The truth is, while most couples dive into planning with high hopes and romantic visions, they often fall into a few all-too-common traps. These can lead to budget blowouts, unexpected stress, and even timeline chaos.
Sound familiar?
Don’t worry! With the right wedding planning tips, you can avoid these slip-ups and keep your celebration on track.
Stacy Persoff, Catering Sales Manager at Equinox Resort, shares her expert insights on the five biggest wedding planning mistakes and how you can steer clear of them to make your big day both stunning and seamless.
Wedding Planning Tips Before Saying I Do
1. Getting Swept Away by Aesthetics Without Considering Practical Needs
You’re in love with the idea of panoramic mountain views and a charming pond-side venue. It’s gorgeous but holds only 80 guests—and your invite list includes 300!
Stacy’s advice? Know your must-haves before you start venue shopping.
“Don’t waste your time getting your heart set on something that won’t work logistically,” she cautions. Start by defining your non-negotiables: guest count, budget, and must-have features.
This way, you’ll save yourself the heartbreak of falling in love with a venue that simply doesn’t fit.
2. Not Coming Prepared with the Right Questions
When visiting potential venues, think beyond just the view. Stacy emphasizes having a list of priorities before any site visits. Is your focus on food, ambiance, or music? If you envision a 15-piece band, ensure the venue can accommodate their electrical and space needs. Be ready with questions about sound ordinances and logistical details. “At the end of the day, it’s all about you,” Stacy notes. A good venue will answer your questions and meet your needs.
3. Forgetting the People Factor
A venue might check all your aesthetic boxes, but what about the team you’ll work with? Stacy stresses that having a good rapport with the venue staff and vendors is critical. This extends to every vendor, from the photographer to the hair and makeup team.
“You want to ensure you mesh well and share the same vibe,” Stacy says. It’s not just about liking a place but liking the people who will help bring your day to life.
4. Not Balancing Budget with Vision
Balancing the guest list with your dream wedding vision can be tricky. A large guest list can quickly drive up costs for every element, from catering to décor. Stacy says, “Consider if you really need to invite that cousin you haven’t talked to in 25 years or your best friend from kindergarten.”
By narrowing your list, you can allocate more resources to the features that matter most to you, like that stunning floral arch or a live jazz band.
5. Failing to Incorporate Personal Touches
It’s easy to get caught up in grand plans, but Stacy believes the little things that reflect your personality make a wedding memorable.
She recently worked with a couple who incorporated playful table games into their reception. The result? A distinctive, fun atmosphere that felt unmistakably theirs.
“At the end of the day, it’s about you,” Stacy reminds us. Don’t be afraid to let your unique style shine through in small but meaningful ways.
Bonus Tip: Get Creative with Spaces
Sometimes, a venue might not work entirely for your vision but don’t give up just yet.
Stacy shares how the Equinox Resort finds ways to incorporate beloved spaces into a couple’s special day.
“If a spot is sentimental to you or really gets you excited, consider using it for engagement photos, rehearsal dinners, or even your first look,” she suggests.
With a bit of creativity, you can weave meaningful elements into your celebration.
Looking for your perfect wedding venue? See what Equinox Resort has to offer >>
