If you’re knee-deep in planning your wedding and feeling like your to-do list keeps growing by the minute—you’re not alone. I’ve worked with so many brides from Essendon to Altona, and I get it. It’s exciting, emotional, and, yes, sometimes a little overwhelming. So I thought I’d share a few of the biggest wedding planning mistakes I’ve seen over the years (and how you can absolutely avoid them).
1. Trying to Do It All Yourself
It’s easy to fall into the mindset of “I’ve got this.” And you do—but you’re not meant to carry it all yourself. Between guest lists, timelines, and all the little decisions in between, it’s okay to ask for help. Lean on your people. Whether it’s hiring a planner or assigning tasks to friends, sharing the load lets you enjoy the experience a whole lot more.
2. Booking Vendors Too Late
Some of the most important vendors—your wedding photographer, venue, and celebrant—book out quickly, especially in popular areas like Essendon and Altona. Waiting too long can mean missing out on someone who’s a perfect fit. I always recommend securing your dream vendors early, particularly those who’ll be by your side throughout the entire day.
3. Not Setting a Realistic Budget
It’s so easy to get carried away with Pinterest boards and Instagram inspo. I get it—everything looks dreamy. But not setting a clear, realistic budget from the beginning can lead to stress later. There are so many wonderful and affordable options out there if you plan with intention. Many vendors, myself included, offer wedding photography packages that are both flexible and tailored to what you actually need.
4. Overplanning the Timeline
Wanting everything to go perfectly is natural—but trying to fill every minute can backfire. Weddings rarely run to the exact minute, and giving yourself breathing room will help you enjoy the day more. Talk with your vendors (especially your photographer) about what’s realistic. I always help my couples plan a photo timeline that works with their day, not against it.
5. Forgetting What the Day Is About
When you’re in the middle of managing RSVPs and finalising florals, it’s easy to lose sight of the heart of it all—celebrating the love between you and your person. The most memorable weddings aren’t the ones with the biggest budgets or fanciest décor, but the ones where the couple is genuinely present and connected.
I’ve photographed weddings all across Essendon, Altona, and beyond—and what stands out in every beautiful wedding isn’t the styling (though I adore it), but the feelings. The way you look at each other. The way your friends laugh. The way your parents hold you a little tighter.
So if I can leave you with one piece of advice, it’s this: give yourself grace, trust your gut, and surround yourself with people who care just as much as you do. And if you're still looking for a professional, relaxed, and heartfelt photographer, I’d love to be part of your journey.
(Keep scrolling below my gallery for more blog info on what to pack in your wedding emergency kit!)
CREATIVE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER IN WERRIBEE, YARRAVILLE & SURROUNDING AREAS - Check More of My Work on Socials Below:
What to Pack in Your Wedding Emergency Kit?
Let’s be honest—no matter how beautifully you’ve planned your wedding day, little surprises always pop up. I’ve seen it all as a wedding photographer, from a missing safety pin to a last-minute lipstick touch-up, and trust me, having a well-stocked emergency kit can be the quiet hero of your day.
If you're getting married in Essendon, Altona, or anywhere in between, here’s a simple, thoughtful guide to packing the kind of kit that keeps everything running smoothly while letting you stay relaxed, glowing, and fully in the moment.
The Essentials
Start with the basics. These are your non-negotiables—the small things that will solve the most common issues quickly.
- Sewing kit with needles, thread (especially in your dress colour), and safety pins
- A mini pack of tissues
- Fashion tape
- Clear nail polish (lifesaver for stockings or chipped polish)
- Pain relievers or any medications you might need
- A couple of bandaids for sore feet or tiny accidents
Beauty Touch-Ups
Photos happen all day long, so this one’s close to my heart as a professional photographer. Even if your glam squad is amazing, it’s good to have a few things close by.
- Lipstick or gloss
- Pressed powder or blotting papers
- A small mirror
- Hairpins and a travel-size hairspray
- A toothbrush or mints (you’ll thank me later)
I’ve had brides in Essendon and Altona tell me their emergency kit was the best thing they brought along—next to their partner, of course.
Comfort Items
Sometimes, it’s the little comforts that help you feel grounded and calm during all the excitement.
- A phone charger or power bank
- Snacks (granola bars are your best friend during long stretches)
- A bottle of water
- Spare flats or comfy shoes
- A copy of your vows (just in case nerves or tears sneak in)
A Few Extras Just in Case
- A stain remover pen
- Extra earring backs
- A small amount of cash
- A copy of your run sheet or timeline
As someone who offers affordable wedding photography packages, I always remind my couples that my job is to document the day while keeping you at ease. When you’ve got your kit handy and you feel prepared, you get to be fully present—and those are the kinds of moments I love to capture.
Weddings are filled with laughter, movement, and surprises, and being ready for the unexpected doesn’t take away the magic—it lets you enjoy it more. Having these little lifesavers on hand means fewer distractions and more time soaking up every beautiful moment.
So pack it early, tuck it into a tote or give it to a trusted friend—and breathe easy knowing you’re ready for whatever the day brings. I promise, your future self (and your wedding photographer) will thank you.
(Keep scrolling below my gallery to read Top Tips for a Stress-Free Wedding Morning):
CANDID WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER IN POINT COOK; CHECK SOME OF MY WORK BELOW
Top Tips for a Stress-Free Wedding Morning:
You’ve found the perfect vendors to bring your wedding vision to life, and now it’s time to make things official. But before you sign on the dotted line, let’s talk about wedding vendor contracts. They’re not the most exciting part of planning, but trust me, they’re one of the most important. These agreements protect both you and the professionals you’re hiring, ensuring everything runs smoothly on your big day.
You’ve spent months dreaming, planning, and organising your perfect day—and now it’s here. The morning of your wedding should feel calm, joyful, and full of anticipation, not chaos or overwhelm. As a wedding photographer who has spent many early hours with brides from Essendon to Altona, I’ve seen firsthand how the way your day begins can shape the entire experience. So here are my favourite tips for a relaxed, stress-free wedding morning that allows you to soak in every second.
1. Start Earlier Than You Think
It might be tempting to allow a little sleep-in, but trust me on this—getting ready always takes longer than expected. Hair, makeup, breakfast, getting into the dress—it all adds up. Give yourself extra breathing room so that you’re not rushing through the best part of the day. A slow, steady start sets the tone beautifully.
2. Keep Your Space Clear and Calm
Your getting-ready space doesn’t need to be Pinterest-perfect, but having a clean, light-filled area makes a big difference. Not only does it help you feel grounded, but it also gives your professional photographer a beautiful backdrop for those early, intimate shots. Choose a spot with natural light, and keep clutter to a minimum.
3. Have a Thoughtful Playlist
Music sets the mood. Whether you want upbeat energy or soft, emotional vibes, having a playlist ready can really elevate the moment. I’ve walked into so many rooms in Altona or Essendon where the music instantly lifted the mood and helped calm everyone’s nerves.
4. Delegate, Delegate, Delegate
Your job that morning is to be present, not to answer supplier questions or track down boutonnieres. Choose a trusted friend, family member, or planner to take care of the little details. You’ve done the planning—now let someone else carry it for a bit.
5. Keep a Few Essentials Close
Snacks, water, tissues, lip balm, and a copy of your vows should all be within reach. Comfort matters more than you’d think, especially when emotions are running high.
6. Trust the People Around You
This is your circle—your closest, your dearest. Trust that they’re here to help. Whether it’s your stylist adjusting the veil or your wedding photographer fluffing the dress before a shot, know that you’re surrounded by experts who care about your day just as much as you do.
I always work closely with my couples through my affordable wedding photography packages to make sure the day flows effortlessly—no pressure, no stiff posing, just you enjoying each moment as it comes.
The morning is the first chapter in your wedding story. Make it count—not by filling it with tasks, but by being exactly where you are, surrounded by love and ease. And if you need someone to quietly capture it all as it unfolds, I’ll be there—camera in hand, heart wide open.
If you’re ready to make your "I Do" moments unforgettable, let’s chat about creating the perfect affordable photography package for you.
WHO ARE WE? Inanna Photography is a Melbourne-based studio specializing in boudoir photography, including bridal, couples, and individual sessions. The studio is dedicated to empowering clients by capturing their beauty, confidence, and unique essence in an intimate and supportive environment. With a focus on personalized experiences, we creates stunning, elegant portraits that celebrate individuality and self-love. Whether you’re marking a special occasion or simply embracing yourself, we offers a refined and empowering photographic experience.
Love Jade
xoxox
