From Disaster to ‘I Do’: How to Avoid Common Wedding Fails

Your wedding day is supposed to be the happiest day of your life… but sometimes, it comes with a few unexpected hiccups along the way. From wardrobe malfunctions to comical cake catastrophes, we’ve all heard the horror stories (and secretly giggled at them too).

The good news? Most of these wedding day fails are completely avoidable with a little forward planning and a good sense of humour. Here are some of the funniest wedding day fails we’ve come across, and our top tips to make sure  they don’t happen to you!

It’s more common than you think — the rings get left in the car, lost in a pocket, or simply forgotten altogether. Cue awkward shuffling and nervous laughter at the altar.

How to Avoid It:

• Nominate a responsible (and organised) person for the rings.
• Do a final check before you leave for the ceremony.
• Consider a backup — some couples keep dummy rings handy, just in case!

There are few things more panic-inducing than a broken zip or torn hem moments before you walk down the aisle. And let’s not even mention the time a bride stepped on her own veil and nearly took herself out…

How to Avoid It:

• Pack an emergency kit: safety pins, needle and thread, fashion tape, and stain remover wipes.
• Practise walking, sitting, and dancing in your dress beforehand.

Bring a bridesmaid or trusted friend who can help with last-minute fixes.

British weather has a wicked sense of humour. Glorious sunshine can suddenly turn to torrential downpours, especially if your wedding is outdoors.

How to Avoid It:

• Always have a wet weather backup plan.
• Stock up on clear umbrellas — they look great in photos!
• Embrace it! Some of the best, most memorable wedding photos happen in the rain.

 Imagine your first dance starts… and the wrong song blasts out. Or worse — it’s Baby Shark. It happens more often than you’d think.

How to Avoid It:

• Triple-check the playlist with your DJ or band.
• Provide a clear do-not-play list (we’re looking at you, cheesy 90s hits).
• Have a backup playlist ready to go, just in case.

Ah, the centrepiece of the reception — the wedding cake. But sometimes, gravity wins…

How to Avoid It:

• Hire a professional baker with experience in wedding cakes.
• Make sure the cake is stored properly — no baking in a hot marquee!
• Consider a sturdy, tiered stand for extra support.

There’s always that guest who wanders off mid-ceremony for a toilet break or gets lost trying to find the venue.

How to Avoid It:

• Provide clear directions and signage.
• Appoint ushers or helpers to guide guests.
• Keep the schedule tight and well-communicated so everyone knows where to be and when.

Even with the most meticulous planning, tiny mishaps can still happen, and that’s okay! Sometimes it’s the unexpected moments that make your day uniquely yours and give you stories to laugh about for years to come.

The key is preparation, patience, and remembering that at the end of it all, you’re marrying the love of your life, cake catastrophes and all.

Need more advice? Check out FBFW:The Pod below ⬇️