Wedding Regrets: Things Couple Wish They Did Differently

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of wedding planning. But once the big day is over, many couples look back and realize there were a few things they wish they had done differently.

First, if you’ve already had your wedding and feel this way, you’re not alone, and your day was still beautiful. Regrets happen, and they don’t take away from the joy of the moment.

For those in the early or middle stages of planning, learning from others’ experiences can help you make thoughtful choices now that lead to fewer "what ifs" later.

At Lionsgate, we’ve heard these stories time and again, and our in-house planners are here to help you navigate around them with confidence. Here are some of the most common wedding regrets and what you can do to avoid them.

1. “We Wish We Had More Time for Photos”

Between getting ready, greeting guests, and dancing the night away, the day goes by in a flash. Many couples find themselves rushing through their portraits or missing out on moments they hoped to capture.

How to avoid it:

Work with your planner and photographer to build a photo timeline that doesn’t feel rushed. At Lionsgate, we help you carve out intentional time for portraits, first looks, and family photos — so you get those frame-worthy shots without feeling pulled in every direction.

2. “We Tried Too Hard to Please Everyone Else”

Whether it’s guest list pressure, décor opinions, or family expectations, many couples reflect on how they lost sight of what they truly wanted.

How to avoid it:

Remember who this day is about. It’s okay to be considerate, but your happiness matters most. Our planners at Lionsgate encourage couples to stay rooted in their vision and help manage family dynamics with grace and professionalism.

3. “We Barely Ate or Drank”

It’s surprisingly common couples spend so much time mingling and managing the day that they forget to actually eat or hydrate. Not ideal when you're in formalwear for hours.

How to avoid it:

Have your planner or coordinator ensure food is brought to your table. Some couples even schedule a quiet moment for just the two of them during dinner. We’ll help you work this into the flow so you can actually enjoy that beautiful meal you paid for.

4. “We Took on Too Many DIY Projects”

Pinterest makes it look easy, but DIYing everything from centerpieces to signage can create major stress, especially in the final days before the wedding.

How to avoid it:

Pick a few meaningful projects and outsource the rest. Our team at Lionsgate can connect you with trusted vendors and help you simplify. You don’t have to do it all — and you definitely shouldn’t be hot gluing favors the night before your wedding.

5. “We Left for Our Honeymoon Too Soon”

Many couples feel rushed by hopping on a flight the morning after the wedding. Exhaustion kicks in fast, and they miss out on the chance to reflect and recharge.

How to avoid it:

Consider planning a "mini-moon", a relaxing night or two nearby, before taking a big trip later. It gives you time to breathe, open gifts, and soak in the magic of the weekend. Lionsgate couples often build this into their planning for a smoother transition.

6. “We Didn’t Realize How Important the Timeline Was”

A scattered or overly packed timeline can lead to delays, vendor confusion, and stress you didn’t anticipate.

How to avoid it:

This is where a planner becomes your best friend. At Lionsgate, we guide you through a personalized wedding timeline that keeps the day flowing while making room for joy. It’s one of the most valuable services we provide and our couples tell us it made all the difference.

We’re Here to Help You Avoid Regret

Even the most perfectly planned weddings can come with a few “I wish I had…” moments. But with a little foresight and a strong support team, you can reduce stress and focus on what truly matters — celebrating your love.

At Lionsgate, our mission is to help you plan a day that feels easy, joyful, and authentically you. We’ve guided thousands of couples through the process, and we’re always happy to share honest advice and creative solutions that bring peace of mind.

Have questions or need planning support? Reach out anytime. We’re here to make sure you walk away with no regrets — just incredible memories.

1. What’s the best way to stay present on the wedding day?

   Build moments into your schedule to pause and breathe. Whether it’s a first look, a private dinner, or a five-minute break with your partner, Lionsgate planners can help create space in your timeline to enjoy the moment.

   
   

2. Can I plan a wedding that reflects my vision and keeps family happy?

   Absolutely. It’s all about balance. Our team is experienced in helping couples navigate family dynamics with diplomacy while staying true to what matters most to you.

   
   

3. How can I make sure I actually get to eat during the reception?

   We’ll make sure meals are served to you directly, and we can help build a timeline that includes a quiet moment during cocktail hour or dinner so you can enjoy your food without constant interruptions.

   
   

4. Is it okay to delay our honeymoon?

   Yes, and many couples are choosing to do just that. A mini-moon right after the wedding can give you time to rest before taking a bigger trip later. We love helping couples plan for this option.

   
   

5. How do Lionsgate planners help prevent stress on the big day?

   Our planners manage the timeline, coordinate with vendors, and solve problems behind the scenes so you don’t have to. With over 9,000 events under our belt, we know how to anticipate and avoid common challenges and we’re with you every step of the way.