Starting out as a wedding planner is exciting, but it’s easy to stumble when you’re new to the industry. Mistakes happen, but the key is learning from them quickly. Let’s break down the most 10 common mistakes new wedding planners make — and how to avoid them.

10 Common Mistakes New Planners Make

1. Not Setting Clear Boundaries with Clients

It’s natural to want to be available for your clients 24/7, but this can lead to burnout. I used to always be available to my clients anytime they sent me a text. After fourteen years of being a planner, I now only respond to texts during my office hours. 

How to avoid it: Establish office hours and communication guidelines from the beginning. Let clients know the best way to reach you and when they can expect a response.

2. Undercharging for Your Services

Many new planners undervalue their work, fearing they’ll lose clients if they charge too much. I remember the days of not charing much just to gain experience. I get wanting to do that and it’s okay to undercharge for your first couple of weddings, but after that you’ve got to charge your worth and make it worth your time.

How to avoid it: Research what planners in your area charge and set prices that reflect your time, effort, and expertise. Remember — confidence in your pricing comes from knowing your value.

3. Failing to Have a Signed Contract

A verbal agreement is not enough. Without a contract, you risk miscommunication and legal issues. 

How to avoid it: Always use a contract that outlines your services, payment terms, cancellation policies, and client responsibilities. Invest in having a lawyer review it.

4. Not Having a Backup Plan

Weddings rarely go 100% according to plan — rain, late vendors, or technical glitches can pop up. 

How to avoid it: Always have a Plan B. This includes extra emergency kit supplies and clear contingency plans for weather-related issues.

5. Overpromising and Under-Delivering

In a bid to impress, new planners may promise things they can’t control, like guaranteeing a specific vendor’s availability. 

How to avoid it: Be realistic about what you can deliver. Manage client expectations by being honest and transparent.

6. Ignoring Vendor Relationships

Your vendor network is crucial to your success. Neglecting to build relationships with florists, photographers, and caterers can hurt your reputation. 

How to avoid it: Take time to meet vendors, collaborate on styled shoots, and show appreciation for their work. Strong partnerships lead to smoother events.

7. Forgetting to Create a Detailed Timeline

A vague schedule can cause chaos on the wedding day. 

How to avoid it: Create a comprehensive timeline that includes vendor arrivals, setup times, ceremony details, and reception events. Share it with all key players well in advance. I always send the timeline a month before the wedding and again the week of the wedding. 

8. Not Preparing for Wedding Day Emergencies

From broken zippers to forgotten rings, anything can happen. 

How to avoid it: Pack a fully stocked emergency kit with essentials like safety pins, stain remover, and extra phone chargers. Prepare for the unexpected.

9. Overlooking Post-Wedding Tasks

Your job doesn’t end when the couple leaves. Failing to organize tear-down or finalize vendor payments can leave a bad impression.

How to avoid it: Include post-wedding tasks in your workflow, such as ensuring all personal items are packed, vendors are paid, and the venue is cleared.

10. Neglecting Self-Care

Burnout is real. Many new planners work themselves to the bone trying to prove their worth. I learned this the hard way. I worked 24/7 and never took a vacation or time off. My weekends were spent working on my business even when I didn’t have a wedding. In response, my marriage suffered and I got so burned out. 

How to avoid it: Schedule time off, delegate tasks when you can, and set realistic goals. A healthy planner is a better planner!

By being mindful of these common mistakes and implementing strategies to avoid them, you can build a reputable and successful wedding planning business. I’m here to help you do just that!