5 Common Mistakes Couples Make on Their Wedding Day (And How to Avoid Them)
Planning your wedding in New Zealand or Ireland? Whether you’re dreaming of a lakeside ceremony in Wānaka or saying “I do” at an Irish castle, there’s one truth about weddings: the day flies by.
As a wedding photographer working across New Zealand and Ireland, I’ve had the joy of capturing hundreds of love stories — and I’ve seen the same wedding day hiccups crop up again and again.
Here are five common mistakes couples make on their wedding day, plus practical tips to help you avoid them and stay relaxed, present, and happy.
Not Building in Enough Buffer Time
Weddings rarely run on time. If your timeline is too tight, even small delays (like hair and makeup running late or guests taking their time to be seated) can snowball and create stress.
Tip: Always build in buffer time between key moments — especially when getting ready, travelling between venues, or wrangling group photos.
As a wedding photographer based in Wānaka, I always help my couples plan a photo-friendly timeline that allows for natural light, relaxed movement, and a bit of breathing room.
Forgetting to Eat or Stay Hydrated
It happens all the time: couples are so swept up in the buzz of the day, they forget to eat or drink enough water. And hunger plus adrenaline can make anyone crash.
Tip: Set aside a private moment (just the two of you!) to eat before the reception. Ask your caterer to plate up something simple, and keep a water bottle nearby — especially if you’re having a summer wedding in New Zealand or dancing into the early hours at an Irish marquee celebration.
Trying to Please Everyone
From family opinions to cultural expectations, many couples feel pressure to make choices for other people — not themselves.
Tip: This is your wedding. Celebrate it your way. Whether that’s an elopement in Queenstown, a barefoot beach wedding, or skipping traditions altogether, don’t lose sight of what feels authentic to you.
Some of the most memorable weddings I’ve photographed in Ireland and New Zealand were the ones that truly reflected the couple’s personalities.
Not Communicating Clearly with Your Vendors
Even the best vendors need clear communication to deliver their best work. Confusion about timing, expectations or logistics can create avoidable stress on the day.
Tip: Create a detailed run sheet (your photographer and planner can help) and assign a go-to person — someone who isn’t you — to handle questions. For destination weddings in New Zealand or remote venues in Ireland, this is especially key if phone signal is patchy.
A quick check-in with your key vendors the week before will work wonders.
Forgetting to Be Present
It’s easy to get caught up in logistics and nerves, but your wedding day only happens once. And the best memories come from soaking it all in.
Tip: Take intentional pauses throughout the day. Look around, take a breath, hold your partner’s hand. Let go of perfection and embrace the messy, magical moments — I promise, those are the ones you’ll treasure.
Planning Your Wedding in New Zealand or Ireland?
If you’re searching for a wedding photographer in Wānaka, Queenstown, or anywhere in Aotearoa or Ireland, I’d love to connect. I photograph weddings big and small — from adventurous elopements to joyful, music-filled celebrations back home in Ireland.
I focus on natural, documentary-style photography that captures the true feeling of your day — not just the perfectly posed bits.
Get in Touch
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Ireland: May - October: 2025/2026
New Zealand: October - May 2025/2026
Are you ready to capture your love story IN IRELAND OR nEW ZEALAND? Contact me today to discuss your wedding photography needs and let's make your dream wedding day a reality. Follow my blog for more tips and inspiration on planning your perfect wedding. Happy planning lovers!
