After coordinating dozens of weddings across South Africa, I've seen the same mistakes cost couples thousands of rands and weeks of unnecessary stress.

Here's what to watch out for:

1. Booking your venue before setting a budget

Your venue will eat 40-50% of your total budget. If you fall in love with a R200k venue on a R300k budget, every other decision becomes a compromise. Set the number first.

2. Not locking vendors in with contracts

Verbal agreements mean nothing when your photographer double-books your date 3 months out. Always get it in writing — deposit, deliverables, cancellation terms.

3. Underestimating the timeline

12 months might seem like a lot, but popular venues and photographers in Joburg and Cape Town book out 8-10 months ahead. Start early or pay a premium.

4. Trying to DIY everything

DIY décor sounds fun until you're hot-gluing centerpieces at 2am the night before. Know what to delegate and what to handle yourself.

5. Ignoring the guest experience

Your wedding is about you, but your guests remember the food, the flow, and whether they waited 45 minutes between ceremony and reception. Plan the gaps.

I help couples avoid all of this. If you're engaged and want a stress-free planning experience, check out the Complete Wedding Planning Package — I'll walk you through every step.