The One Thing That Changed Everything in My Wedding Planning Journey

When I started planning my wedding, I made a classic rookie mistake:I listened to everyone.

Friends. Family. Workmates. Even random people on Instagram.

Suddenly, it felt like the whole world had an opinion about how my wedding should go.

And of course, it all came from a place of love — that was never in question.

But wow… the advice was endless.

“Don’t do a big wedding, you’ll regret spending the money.” “You have to have a cocktail hour — it’s non-negotiable.” “Are you really doing that theme? It’s not very timeless…”

At first, I tried to take it all on board. I didn’t want to offend anyone or come across as ungrateful. I figured, “Hey, maybe they’re right?”

But honestly? The more I tried to follow everyone else’s ideas, the more overwhelmed and confused I became.

I started second-guessing my choices. Doubting my vision. Ignoring my own gut instincts. And what was meant to be a joyful, exciting time suddenly started to feel… heavy.

The Turning Point

Then one day, it hit me like a bolt of lightning:

Why am I taking advice from people who’ve never planned a wedding like mine?

That moment changed everything.

I stopped trying to please everyone and started tuning back into what we really wanted for our big day. I reached out to people who had walked this path before — professionals who understood how to bring a vision to life with experience, grace, and calm guidance.

People who didn’t tell me what I should do, but instead asked me what felt right.

I let go of the noise and began building a day that felt true to us — not a mashup of everyone else’s opinions.

Expert Wedding Planning Tips

Whether you're just getting started or deep in the details, here are some wedding planning tips we swear by at Jem Weddings that I used when I planned my wedding:

1. Start With Your Non-Negotiables

Before you get too deep into Pinterest boards, sit down with your partner and identify your top 3 priorities. It could be the food, the vibe, the music, or the photos. Keep these in focus — they’ll help you stay grounded when choices start piling up.

2. Set a Realistic Budget — and Stick to It

Get clear on what you’re comfortable spending, and allocate funds based on your priorities. A great Perth wedding planner can help stretch your budget without compromising your vision.

3. Build a Dream Team You Trust

Choose vendors who get you. Look for people who understand your style, respect your decisions, and make you feel at ease. This is key to a stress-free wedding.

4. Don’t Be Afraid to Delegate

You don’t have to do it all. From stylists, day-of coordination to full-service planning, there are incredible services (hi 👋) that exist to help you actually enjoy your engagement.

5. Plan With Purpose, Not Pressure

Your wedding day should reflect your relationship — not someone else’s tradition or opinion. Take a breath, stay true to what feels like you, and remember: you get to do this your way.

A Gentle Reminder for You

If you’re in those early stages of planning your wedding — or if you’re knee-deep in decisions and feeling the pressure of too many voices — consider this your gentle permission slip:

✨ Trust yourself.

✨ Surround yourself with people who understand your vision.

✨ Don’t be afraid to ask for help from professionals who do this every day.

That’s exactly what we’re here for.

Whether you’re dreaming of a vineyard ceremony, a beachfront celebration, or a backyard garden party, our team at Jem Weddings offers personalised wedding planning and wedding coordination .

Let’s Plan a Wedding That Feels Like You

If you're ready to cut through the noise and feel excited — not overwhelmed — about your big day, we’d love to chat.

Click here to book your free wedding planning consult and let’s bring your vision to life — beautifully, joyfully, and stress-free.

With love,

Jess xx

Lead Planner at Jem Weddings— Perth Wedding Planner & Coordination Team