Top 10 Wedding Planning Mistakes to Avoid (and How to Plan Like a Pro!)

As a wedding photographer who has worked with hundreds of amazing couples, I’ve had a front-row seat to the best (and not-so-great) planning moments. So today, I’m sharing the top 10 wedding planning mistakes to avoid.... plus a few photographer-approved tips to help you stay ahead and stress-free.

Whether you're planning a celebration in Indianapolis or beyond, these tips will help you enjoy the process and focus on what matters most: getting married to the love of your life.

1. Waiting Too Long to Book Your Vendors

The Mistake: Couples often wait until it's “closer to the date” to book major vendors like photographers, venues, planners, and florists—only to find their favorites are already booked.

Pro Tip: Start with your venue and photographer. In cities like Indianapolis, popular wedding dates (May, September, and October) book out 12–18 months in advance.

2. Skipping a Wedding Planner or Coordinator

The Mistake: Thinking you can handle everything yourself or relying on a friend to coordinate.

Pro Tip: Even a month-of coordinator can be a lifesaver. A professional planner helps manage the timeline, vendors, and emergencies—so you (and your mom!) can actually enjoy the day.

3. Trying to Please Everyone

The Mistake: Letting family or friends sway big decisions like your guest list, ceremony style, or bridal party.

Pro Tip: Stay true to your vision as a couple. You can be respectful and kind while setting clear boundaries—this is your day!

4. The Timeline

The Mistake: Underestimating how long things take on a wedding day—getting ready, portraits, travel, etc.

Pro Tip: I always help my couples build a timeline that allows for natural light, no rushing, and buffer time. Trust your vendors to guide you here—it makes a huge difference in your experience and photos.

5. The Venue's Guest Count

The Mistake: Booking your dream venue, before discussing the guest list.

Pro Tip: Discuss the guest list before scheduling venue tours. Visiting a space that's your DREAM location, and then discovering it won't work.... is the WORST

6. Over scheduling the day

The Mistake: A Jam-packed schedule leaves little time for spontaneity, connection, and allowing yourself to be present in the day.

Pro Tip: Less is more. Don't over do it with scheduling every minute of the day. Allow breathing room so you can ENJOY your wedding, and not rush from one thing to the next.

7. Micro-managing Your Vendors

The Mistake: Overplanning every single detail and not trusting your vendor team to do what they do best.

Pro Tip: Hire vendors whose work and personality you love—then give them creative freedom. The best results happen when your team feels trusted and inspired.

8. Overcommitting to DIY Projects

The Mistake: Taking on too many do-it-yourself elements to save money, only to feel overwhelmed and exhausted before the big day.

Pro Tip: Be realistic about your time, skills, and stress levels. Focus on 1–2 meaningful DIY projects (like signage or favors), and leave the rest to the pros.

9. Not Hiring a Professional Photographer

The Mistake: Relying on a friend or choosing someone based on price alone.

Pro Tip: Your photos are the one thing you'll keep forever. Choose a photographer whose style, personality, and process align with your vision. (Hint: If you’re looking for timeless, romantic, and joyful photos—I’m your girl!)

10. Not Having an Unplugged Ceremony

The Mistake: Letting guests take photos during your ceremony, which can lead to distractions, blocked views, and missed moments in your professional gallery.

Pro Tip: Ask your officiant to make a quick announcement and add a sign that politely encourages guests to stay present and leave the photo-taking to your photographer. You'll thank yourself when you see your uninterrupted, emotional ceremony photos.

Wedding planning doesn't have to be stressful—it just takes a little guidance, support, and the right team around you. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’re already ahead of the game.

Planning a wedding in Indianapolis? I’d love to help you document your day in a way that’s organized, authentic, and timeless. Let’s create something beautiful together.

At the end of the day, your wedding should feel like YOU. By avoiding these common planning mistakes, you're setting yourself up for a celebration that is not only beautiful, but meaningful and stress-free. Want more wedding planning tips from a photographer's perspective? Explore the blog for timelines, checklists, and behind-the-scenes insights to help you plan with confidence.