From Etsy Dress Disasters to $10K Lawsuits: 8 Real Wedding Regrets (and How to Avoid Them)

Every couple dreams of a wedding day that’s nothing short of magical, but even the best plans can come with a few unexpected “I wish we had…” moments. After hearing from dozens of newlyweds, we’ve uncovered eight real wedding regrets that couples wish they could redo and how you can avoid them.

One of the most common regrets couples share is skipping wedding insurance. It might not sound glamorous, but it’s one of those small expenses that can save you thousands. One couple skipped event insurance to save a little money and ended up paying over $10,000 in legal fees after a vendor issue. Wedding insurance gives you peace of mind and protects your budget if something unexpected happens.

Another big regret is not hiring a videographer. Photos capture moments, but videos capture emotion. So many couples say their biggest mistake was not hiring someone to record the laughter, the speeches, and the way their loved ones’ voices sounded on their special day. Years from now, you’ll want to relive those sounds and feelings, not just look at pictures.

Trying to cut corners on the wedding dress also makes the list. Ordering from an unknown online shop may seem like a budget-friendly idea, but it can lead to heartbreak and extra costs. Some brides who ordered dresses from Etsy or other sites shared that their gowns didn’t fit, looked nothing like the photos, or arrived late. Instead, consider visiting a trusted bridal boutique or ordering from a reputable online retailer with verified reviews and a solid return policy.

Many couples also realize too late that they never actually sat down to eat during their reception. Between photos, dancing, and greeting guests, food often gets forgotten. Make sure to plan ahead with your caterer or wedding planner so you can enjoy a few quiet bites together; it’s one of the few calm moments you’ll have all day.

A surprising regret is not hiring a photographer for pre and post-wedding events like rehearsal dinners or brunches. These smaller gatherings often capture some of the most genuine, emotional moments. Having a photographer document them can help you remember the full celebration, not just the main event.

Another common regret is letting parents or relatives take control of the guest list. It’s easy to get caught up in making everyone else happy, but remember, this is your day. Surround yourself with people who truly celebrate your relationship and your happiness.

Then there’s the hangover regret. One groom shared that he partied too hard at the rehearsal dinner and spent half of his wedding day recovering. It’s your celebration, but keeping the night before light ensures you’re fully present to enjoy the moments that really matter.

Finally, many couples look back and wish they had invested more in quality rentals and décor. Details like gold beaded charger plates, white padded folding chairs, 6ft tables, and gold flatware might seem small, but they’re what bring your entire design together. Beautiful, high-quality rentals create the kind of “wow” factor that guests notice and that looks stunning in your photos.

Every couple learns something from their wedding day, but you don’t have to repeat their mistakes. With the right planning, a trustworthy team, and thoughtful details, you can avoid the regrets that others have faced. Plan early, invest where it matters, and surround yourself with professionals who care as much as you do. Your dream day deserves to be stress-free, beautiful, and unforgettable.

Watch the full video: From Etsy Dress Disasters to $10K Lawsuits: 8 Real Wedding Regrets (Must Watch)! Explore rentals that bring your vision to life at AnyEventLC.com