10 Things Brides Regret Not Having at Their Wedding
Your wedding day is one of the most memorable days of your life, and while most brides do extensive planning to make it perfect, there are always a few things that can slip through the cracks. As a fine art Tampa wedding photographer, I’ve seen firsthand the little details that can make a big difference—and the ones that many brides regret overlooking.
To help you avoid the “I wish I had done that” moments, here’s a list of 10 things brides often regret not including in their wedding day.
1. A Professional Wedding Photographer
One of the biggest regrets brides share is not investing in a skilled wedding photographer. Your wedding photos are the lasting memories of your day moments you can't get back, and hiring a professional ensures:
Timeless, high-quality images you’ll treasure forever.
Candid moments and emotions beautifully captured.
A stress-free experience, knowing you’re in good hands.
As a Tampa wedding photographer, I’ve had the honor of preserving countless love stories, and I can’t stress enough how important it is to prioritize photography in your budget.
2. A Wedding Day Timeline and Sticking To It
Without a well-planned timeline, the day can feel rushed or disorganized. Many brides regret not working with their planner and wedding photographer to create a schedule that allows enough time for:
Getting ready photos.
First looks or private moments with their partner.
Relaxed family and bridal party portraits.
Untouched ceremony and reception shots
Having a timeline helps keep the day on track and ensures you can enjoy every moment without feeling overwhelmed.
3. A Professional Videographer
While photos are essential, many brides regret not having a wedding video to relive the sounds, laughter, and speeches of their day. A videographer captures moments like:
First look.
Your vows
The speeches from loved ones.
The energy of your dance floor.
A wedding video complements your wedding photography, giving you a full picture of your celebration.
4. Comfortable Shoes
Many brides prioritize style over comfort when it comes to their wedding shoes, only to regret it halfway through the day. Consider:
A second pair of comfy flats or sneakers for the reception.
Having a pair of sandals with you during the day that you can quickly take on and off in between your wedding photography
Breaking in your heels well before the wedding day.
Comfortable shoes let you dance the night away without worrying about sore feet.
5. A Rain Plan
Tampa, Florida’s weather is unpredictable, and not having a backup plan for an outdoor wedding is a common regret. Work with your venue and wedding planner to create a contingency plan, such as:
Renting a tent for outdoor spaces.
Having an indoor backup option.
Providing umbrellas for guests in case of light rain.
A solid rain plan ensures your day goes smoothly, rain or shine.
6. A Designated Point Person
Brides often regret not assigning a friend, family member, or wedding coordinator to handle day-of logistics. A point person can:
Field questions from vendors.
Manage the timeline.
Ensure you’re free to enjoy your day stress-free.
This small detail can make a big difference in your experience. Usually your wedding planner has someone on staff for this very reason. Hence why hiring a professional wedding planner is highly recommended!
7. A Well-Stocked Emergency Kit
From wardrobe malfunctions to unexpected spills, having an emergency kit can save the day. Include essentials like:
Safety pins, double-sided tape, and a sewing kit.
Stain remover wipes and a Tide pen.
Band-Aids, pain relievers, and tissues.
Extra deodorant
You’ll thank yourself for being prepared!
8. A Moment to Yourself (or With Your Partner)
Amid the excitement of the day, many brides regret not carving out a few quiet moments. Whether it’s a first look or a private dinner before the reception, taking time to breathe and soak it all in can help you stay present and savor the day.
9. Enough Food and Drinks for Themselves
It’s surprisingly common for brides and grooms to get so caught up in greeting guests that they forget to eat. Arrange for:
A private cocktail hour plate with appetizers.
Someone to bring you a plate during the reception.
Snacks and water while getting ready.
Fueling up ensures you’ll have the energy to enjoy the celebration.
10. Personal Touches
Many brides wish they had included more personal details that reflect their love story. These could be:
A meaningful song or dance.
Décor inspired by your favorite places or shared hobbies.
A heartfelt thank-you note to guests in their welcome bags or on their tables.
Small, meaningful touches make your wedding feel uniquely yours.
Your Wedding, Your Way
No wedding is perfect, but planning ahead can help you avoid common regrets. By focusing on what matters most to you and preparing for the unexpected, you can create a day that you’ll cherish forever.
Let’s Capture Every Detail
As a Tampa wedding photographer, I’m here to preserve the joy, beauty, and unique details of your big day. Let’s work together to create memories you’ll treasure for a lifetime. Contact me today to start planning your dream wedding photography!
Follow Me:
Nina Bashaw is top rated and highly sought after fine art luxury wedding photographer in Tampa. Nina. specializes in classica and timeless natural light photography with natural posing and genuine smailes. Nina travels throughout Lakeland, Plant City, Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, and surrounding areas for weddings and luxury elopements giving her clients a personalized experience. Contact me for pricing and inquire about availability for 2025 and 2026. Thank you for stopping by my blog and reading 10 things brides often regret not including in their wedding day.
More information:
Comments