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Wedding planning is in full swing for 2021, and after a tough year for both couples and vendors, everyone is more than ready to get back to business! Of course, this year brings a new crop of considerations to take into account when putting together your big day, with everything from food and invites impacted by current events. So before you put the finishing touches on your event, take a look at the eight biggest mistakes you want to avoid in 2021.
Forgoing a Day-Of Planner
While many venues have a day-of planner or coordinator on staff, couples will want to hire their own if this isn't the case, says Joan Wyndrum of Blooms By The Box. "You will not want to be every vendor and guest’s point of contact on your special day," she says. "You will want to relax and let someone else handle any curveballs."
Failing to Review Contracts
Wyndrum also recommends carefully checking cancellation policies at your venue and with vendors, which is important even when we're not in a pandemic! "Things come up, and you should always be aware of your vendors and venue's cancellation policies and what you are potentially losing should you have to postpone or cancel," she says.
Haggling with Vendors
"With all of the financial hits vendors have dealt with over the past year, even suggesting bargaining could be the end of a very good working relationship," explains Jennifer Borgh of Borghinvilla Wedding Venue.
Skipping Save the Dates
As Kelley Nudo of Momental Designs points out, many couples have had to reschedule their wedding dates and might feel uninspired to send yet another mailing. They shouldn't. "After having gone through a pandemic, calendars are about to fill up quickly, so sending a simple save the date can help your guests avoid some schedule juggling down the road," she explains.
Assuming Everyone Will Attend
Even with vaccines rolling out and restrictions being lifted, some guests may feel uncomfortable attending a celebration with so many people or traveling to a different state or country, notes Jen Avey of Destination Weddings Travel Group. She recommend polling family and friends before making any big decisions so that they understand each guest's comfort and commitment level.
Thinking a Backyard Wedding is Easy
Some couples might decide to forgo a venue and get married at a private home, assuming it will be easy to put together and cost-effective."Couples should definitely do the work and properly price everything out to make sure this is the best route not only financially but logistically," says Bri Marbais of The Bridal Finery. "Weddings at home can tend to be way more challenging than anyone ever realizes."
Holding an Elaborate Cocktail Hour
During COVID-times, you cannot put out a big spread and let people help themselves. That means no extensive buffets or family-style meals. Instead, JoAnn Gregoli of Elegant Occasions by JoAnn Gregoli recommends considering individualized hors d'oeuvres boxes and pre-made drinks where there are fewer hands on the food or drinks that are being picked up.
Wasting Money on Favors
Rather than spending the time and money on items that guests may potentially toss out, couples should find ways to optimize the guest experience on the wedding day. More than ever, experience is everything, notes Marbais.
