Weddings are filled with joyful memories, emotional moments, and beautiful details — but even with the best planning, hindsight often brings a few “if only” reflections. After the big day, many couples find themselves wishing they had done things slightly differently. Whether it’s about prioritising time, capturing memories, or simply being more present, these reflections can offer valuable lessons for others preparing to walk down the aisle.
Here are 12 common regrets couples share after the wedding, along with tips to help you avoid making the same mistakes.
Spent More Time Together
Between photos, mingling with guests, and last-minute changes, many couples barely spend time with each other on their actual wedding day. It’s surprisingly easy to get pulled in different directions, leaving you with fewer shared memories of the event you planned together.
Plan moments in the day just for the two of you, like a private toast or quiet walk.
Consider a “first look” before the ceremony to enjoy a moment alone.
Sit together during the reception and avoid splitting up for too long.
Ask your planner or best man/maid of honour to help manage guest interactions.
Hired a Videographer
While photos capture beautiful still moments, video brings your day to life with sound, motion, and emotion. Many couples regret skipping a videographer due to budget, only to wish later that they had footage of their vows, speeches, or first dance.
Look for packages that include both photography and videography.
Ask newlyweds if they recommend someone they used.
Prioritise video in your budget if capturing movement and audio matters to you.
Even a highlight reel or short film can be a treasured keepsake.
Taken Fewer Group Photos
Group shots are important, but they can be time-consuming and stressful — especially when guests wander off. Many couples wish they’d spent less time staging photos and more time enjoying their reception.
Create a short, structured photo list ahead of time.
Limit formal group shots to immediate family and bridal party.
Have a helper gather people quickly when it’s time for their photo.
Trust your photographer to capture natural, candid group moments later.
Eaten More Food
It sounds obvious, but many couples are so busy on the day that they forget to eat. Between nerves and attention from guests, you can easily miss out on the meal you paid so much for and carefully chose.
Ask your venue to save you a plate if you're busy during dinner.
Schedule 10 minutes to eat privately before mingling.
Have someone bring you canapés during the drinks reception.
Prioritise breakfast and snacks earlier in the day.
Been More Selective with the Guest List
It’s easy to feel pressured to invite colleagues, distant relatives, or old friends out of obligation. But a bloated guest list can impact your budget and dilute the intimacy of the day.
Focus on people who are active in your life now, not just the past.
Set a clear guest list cap based on your venue and budget.
Make peace with saying no — it’s your wedding, not a reunion.
Remember, more guests mean less quality time with each.
Had a Plan B for Weather
Outdoor ceremonies and photos are beautiful — until the rain arrives. Many couples who banked on sunshine wish they’d thought ahead, especially for UK weddings where weather is unpredictable.
Always have a backup indoor option for key parts of the day.
Invest in attractive umbrellas and suitable footwear just in case.
Talk to your venue about shelter and rain plans early.
Work with your photographer on rainy-day shot ideas.
Scheduled More Buffer Time
Timings can easily slip, whether it’s hair taking longer than expected or speeches running over. Couples often regret not building in enough buffer time, leaving them rushed and flustered.
Add 15–30 minutes between major segments of the day.
Don't book hair and makeup too close to the ceremony start.
Tell transport and suppliers to arrive slightly earlier.
Accept that not everything will run perfectly — that’s okay.
Spent More on What Mattered
Sometimes couples regret overspending on things guests didn’t notice and underinvesting in elements that would have brought lasting joy. Prioritising the wrong details can lead to budget regret.
Spend on what you value — music, photography, food, etc.
Don’t feel pressured by trends or other people’s opinions.
Ask yourselves: will this matter to us five years from now?
Cut back in areas that won’t impact your experience or memories.
Worn More Comfortable Shoes
Yes, those towering heels or stiff dress shoes look stunning — but blisters and aching feet can ruin your ability to enjoy the celebration. Many brides and grooms wish they’d chosen comfort.
Break in your wedding shoes ahead of the big day.
Bring a comfortable pair to change into for dancing.
Choose a shoe style that suits your venue and terrain.
Don’t be afraid to prioritise comfort over fashion.
Spoken More from the Heart
Whether it’s vows, toasts, or casual words to guests, many couples wish they’d said more heartfelt things on the day. Emotions run high, and it’s easy to forget to express what really matters.
Write personal vows or letters to each other.
Prepare a short toast to thank guests and family.
Take a quiet moment to reflect together during the day.
Don’t hold back — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime moment.
Left Their Phones Behind
Photos, updates, and texts can be tempting, but phones often distract couples from being fully present. Many look back wishing they’d unplugged and absorbed each moment more deeply.
Give your phone to a trusted friend or planner.
Set up a social media-free zone for yourselves.
Ask guests to be in the moment during the ceremony.
Focus on the day — your photographer will handle the rest.
Been Kinder to Themselves
Weddings can bring self-imposed pressure to look perfect, act perfectly, and make everyone happy. In hindsight, many couples wish they’d relaxed more and been gentler with themselves.
Remember: your guests love you, not your flaws.
Don’t obsess over every detail — imperfections are normal.
Take breaks when you feel overwhelmed.
Celebrate what’s going right, not what isn’t.
Conclusion
Your wedding day will be one of the most memorable experiences of your life — but no matter how perfectly you plan, there’s always room for reflection afterwards. The most common regrets don’t come from missed trends or expensive extras. They come from a lack of time, connection, and presence in the moment.
By learning from couples who’ve already walked down the aisle, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a day that feels truly meaningful. Focus on what matters to you, plan for flexibility, and above all, allow yourselves to enjoy every second. Because when the flowers fade and the cake is gone, it’s the love and shared memories that truly last.
