Wedding planning is not something you do everyday, and for most people, you get one shot at doing it right. So what should you do to make sure you don’t make the same mistakes as others? Learn from those who have gone before you. We complied a list of the top 5 wedding day mistakes most people make, and hopefully you can avoid them as you prepare for your own wedding day.

1. Not being present on your wedding day.
This one day goes by so fast – if you are spending the whole time worrying about the cake, the flowers, the guests, the food, the DJ, etc…then you are not present for the moment and enjoying the day. Assign someone the task of worrying about the details, and accept that it is out of your hands. Whether it is a family member, a personal attendant, or a hired wedding coordinator, explain the details to them before the wedding day and let them worry about it all falling into place. Your priority is enjoying every minute of this day.

2. Not making photography a priority.
Hiring a photographer that can capture your day and the people that were there is crucial. These are the keepsakes you will look back upon, and you will have them forever to show your children and grandchildren. Do not hire a photographer on cost alone – they are not going to give you what you want. Find a photographer in your price range whose style and personality you love. Then, make sure you set aside enough time for photos to be taken during the day so your guests don’t have to wait an extra two hours for dinner while you try to get all of your bridal party photos done.

3. Assuming your vendors can read your mind.
Although this is your first time planning a wedding, you are working with vendors who do this every weekend, right? Yes – but they don’t work with YOU every weekend, and they definitely can’t read your mind. Every wedding is unique, and one bride wants might not work for you. Make sure you sit down with each vendor at some point between the time you book them and the wedding, to discuss details and make sure everyone is on the same page.

4. Not staying within your budget.
Creating a budget for your wedding can be a stressful and painstaking task, but it is a necessity. Everything will start to add up, and there will always be a cost you didn’t think about. Taking on massive amounts of debt is not worth the added stress it will create for you in the coming years. Prioritize your wish list and cut less crucial items when needed, to make sure the things that are really important to you are present for your day. The key is not to be bullied by your friends and family. If your MOH says, “you just have to have a champagne toast!” but it’s going to push the budget, stand your ground. Your guests won’t miss it if they didn’t know about it!

5. Trying to please everyone.
When it comes to wedding, everyone has an opinion. The more offers to help you receive almost always create more stress. You won’t make everyone happy, and if you try, YOU will be the one that isn’t happy at your own wedding. Remember – your wedding day is about you and your fiancé!

Kelly McDonald is an Event & Wedding Designer/Coordinator with Timeless Events. They plan and coordinate fabulous weddings and events of all sizes and budgets. Their custom-priced, affordable packages make them the number one choice for full service wedding planning, day-of coordination, destination weddings, and set up/take down.