Top 10 Wedding Regrets Brides Had (and How to Avoid Them)

Planning your wedding is one of the most exciting times of your life. But it’s also full of decisions you might look back on and wish you’d done differently. Over the last few years, from 2023 to now, brides have been sharing the choices they wish they could change.

Here are the top wedding regrets I see couples talk about most — and how you can avoid them so your wedding day feels unforgettable (in the right way).

1. Inviting Too Many Guests

It’s tempting to invite everyone you’ve ever met, but many couples regret it later. Over-inviting can stretch your budget, crowd your venue, and make it harder to spend meaningful time with the people who matter most.

Tip: Create your guest list based on who you truly want to celebrate with, not out of obligation.

2. Hiring a Cheap or Inexperienced Photographer/Videographer

Couples often wish they’d invested more in professional coverage. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard, “I wish I had a video of my vows.” Your wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime event — you can’t re‑do it.

Tip: Choose a professional whose work you love and whose personality you trust.

3. Not Hiring a Videographer at All

This one came up again and again in online forums. Many brides say it’s their single biggest regret. While photos are beautiful, they can’t capture the sound of your vows, the emotion in your voices, or the way you laughed together during your first dance.

Tip: Even if you book a smaller package, having your day filmed means you’ll be able to relive it in motion for years to come.

4. Not Having a First Look

Skipping a first look can make the timeline feel rushed and cut into cocktail hour. Brides who did one say it was their favorite, most emotional moment.

Tip: If you’re open to it, a first look gives you private time together and more room for portraits.

5. Poor Timeline Planning / Rushing Through the Day

When you're on a tight schedule, there's no room for delays, emotional moments, or spur-of-the-moment fun. This rigid setup can really ramp up stress because people feel like they have to stick to their timelines, missing out on joy and connection. Plus, not having any flexibility can squash creativity and block those unexpected chances for meaningful experiences.

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Tip: Build in at least 10–15 minutes of “cushion time” between major events.

6. Not Packing a Wedding-Day Essentials Kit

Little emergencies can throw you off — but they’re avoidable with a simple kit.

Tip: Include items like lip gloss, blotting papers, a mini sewing kit, mints, deodorant, and a snack.

7. Skipping a Hair & Makeup Trial

Approaching a session without prior preparation can result in dissatisfaction if the final appearance does not align with your personal style in photographs. Many makeup artists and hairstylists include a trial in their packages. This not only ensures alignment with the client's preferences but also allows the professional to address any unique challenges.

Tip: Schedule a trial so you’re confident and relaxed on your wedding day.

8. Not Eating or Drinking Enough

A busy bride can forget to eat, and it catches up fast. Low energy or feeling faint is not the memory you want.

Tip: Have a bridesmaid or family member keep snacks and water nearby all day.

9. Not Hiring a Day-Of Coordinator

Without someone to manage the schedule and vendors, stress can take over.

Tip: Even if you don’t hire a full-service planner, a day-of coordinator is worth it for your sanity.

10. Not Spending Enough Time Alone with Their Partner

Some couples barely see each other until the end of the night, and they regret it. The day flies by. Many brides regret being so focused on the details that they didn’t pause to enjoy the moment.

Tip: Plan private moments — even 5 minutes together before the reception can make a big difference