Feb 17, 2025
Weddings are often seen as the happiest day of a couple's life, but let’s face it—things don't always go as planned. For many grooms, the wedding day can be filled with so much excitement, stress, and emotion that it’s easy to look back and think, "I wish I had done that differently."
Whether it's a small regret or something bigger, it’s always helpful to learn from others' experiences. Here, we've compiled some common things grooms wish they did differently on their wedding day, along with tips on how to avoid those regrets.
1. Spent More Time with My Partner
It’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of wedding activities—photos, greeting guests, and managing all the little details—but grooms often wish they spent more quality time with their partner. The day can fly by, and before you know it, you're apart for most of the day.
Tip: Set aside moments throughout the day to connect with your partner, even if it’s just a quiet moment before the ceremony or a short chat during the reception. Schedule in some private time for just the two of you to reflect on the day.
2. Had a Better Plan for the Wedding Photos
While wedding photos are essential to capture the memories, grooms often regret not being more involved in the planning. Not getting the shots you want or spending too much time in posed pictures can leave you feeling disconnected from the actual celebration.
Tip: Sit down with your photographer before the big day to go over a list of must-have shots. If there are certain candid moments you want to remember, like sharing a laugh with your friends or dancing with your mom, make sure your photographer is aware of them.
3. Took More Breaks
The wedding day can be exhausting. From early morning preparations to the final send-off, it’s easy to forget about taking care of yourself. Some grooms look back and wish they had taken a few more breaks during the day to recharge.
Tip: Give yourself permission to step away for a few minutes, even if it’s just to grab a snack, drink some water, or take a breather in a quiet room. You’ll feel refreshed and more present for the moments that matter.
4. Stayed More Relaxed During the Ceremony
A lot of grooms feel nervous, excited, or overwhelmed during the ceremony. It’s a huge moment, but the pressure to perform or ensure everything goes perfectly can sometimes get the best of you. Many grooms wish they had been more relaxed and focused on enjoying the experience.
Tip: Take deep breaths and remind yourself that this day is about you and your partner, not about perfection. It’s okay if things go off-track, as long as you both are together and happy.
5. Told My Groomsmen to Relax
Grooms often spend time making sure their groomsmen are organized and prepared, but in the process, they may forget to enjoy the day themselves. Sometimes groomsmen are so focused on making sure everything goes right that they forget to relax.
Tip: Encourage your groomsmen to enjoy the moment and remind them that your wedding day is meant to be fun, not stressful. A relaxed group of groomsmen can help you stay calm and focused.
6. Let Go of Control
It’s natural for grooms to want everything to go smoothly, but some things are simply out of your control. The weather, late guests, or unexpected hiccups are all part of the wedding experience. Many grooms regret not letting go of control and allowing things to unfold naturally.
Tip: Accept that not everything will go as planned. Instead of stressing about things you can’t change, focus on what you can control—your attitude and your ability to enjoy the moment.
7. Spent More Time with My Family
The wedding day is about celebrating with your closest friends and family, but many grooms find that they spend more time with their partner’s family or friends, leaving their own loved ones feeling a little neglected.
Tip: Schedule some time to be with your family during the day. Whether it’s sharing a toast with your parents before the ceremony or having a quiet moment with your siblings, it’s important to show your appreciation for their support.
8. Took Advantage of the Wedding Day Emotions
Weddings are emotional, and often grooms regret not embracing the full range of feelings the day offers—whether it’s the excitement before the ceremony, the tears during the vows, or the overwhelming joy during the reception.
Tip: Let yourself feel every emotion that comes your way. If you feel emotional during the vows or the first dance, let those feelings flow. These are the moments you’ll remember forever, and being present in them will make your wedding day even more meaningful.
9. Partied More
Weddings are meant to be a celebration, and many grooms wish they had let loose and partied more during their reception. It’s easy to get caught up in the formalities or obligations, but the dance floor is the perfect place to have fun and create lasting memories.
Tip: Don’t be afraid to enjoy the party! Dance, laugh, and have fun with your guests. The more you engage in the celebration, the more you’ll remember it fondly.
Looking back on your wedding day, it's easy to see areas where you could have done things differently. However, remember that every wedding has its imperfections, and it’s these moments that make it truly unique. Focus on the positive aspects of the day—your commitment to each other and the love that you share—and let go of any regrets.
By learning from the experiences of others, you can better prepare for your own big day, ensuring that it’s as enjoyable and memorable as possible.
