41 Perfectly Planned Weddings That Went Wrong And Turned Into Hilarious Horror

When it comes to weddings, everyone wants that day to be the most special one. It is important that everything goes according to plan and be just perfect.

It's a memorable moment when you and your partner vow that you'll look out for each other and stay together no matter what life throws at you. "In good times and in bad, in sickness and in health," so it is a big day, a day when you start a whole new chapter of your life.

That day is fully focused on you and your partner, your love, and your future life. Usually, people start to make plans for their wedding months before.

For there is so much to do, prearranging, finding the perfect venue, dress, decorations, etc. And that are no things that can be finished overnight. 

It takes a lot of energy, time, and patience, to make your dreams come true and have the perfect wedding you have always wanted. However, there is always a possibility that something could go wrong.

A Reddit user who goes by the name u/veryverygeneric asked other users, "What was the worst thing that happened at your wedding?". And many of them wrote hilarious and spicy stories, which they will likely never forget.

1. Cricket attack

"Mine’s actually funny! I would say it was the “worst” thing that happened but it really wasn’t that bad.We got married in a big open field under an apple tree. My uncle walked me down the aisle and we started from pretty far away, so there was a lot of open field before coming to the aisle and where the seats were.We start walking and I suddenly realize that there are crickets. EVERYWHERE in the grass.And the motion of my skirt on the grass is making them jump right onto/into it. I had several layers of English net and so I had some in between the layers crawling up toward my bodice.Thankfully I had a waist seam so they couldn’t get past that point. I had probably close to twenty in my train and ended up with one in my hair as well.My uncle and I were trying not to crack up. He just kept saying “just keep waking, it’s FINE” as I was shaking my skirt trying to walk at the same time.My bridesmaids spent a few minutes getting the crickets out of my skirt once we got down the aisle and everyone was laughing including me and my husband. They say crickets are good luck, so that’s a plus!Married two years this August."reddit

2. Oh boy, you should read all these terrifying things:

"Oh boy. Had a small wedding in the Colorado Rockies.This one couple did all of the below:-brought their 7-month-old without asking;-drove from Texas and expected to stay with us in our home at Denver before traveling to the mountains (Estes park, about 1.5 hours away);-they did stay with us (husband is too nice). They criticized our house (too small, walls paper thin);- thought they could do the wedding in a day trip from our house, did not buy hotel room. My parents had an extra one that the guys were getting ready in and gave them it. Stanley hotel, $800. They didn’t offer to pay or say thanks they actually asked my dad for his credit card for incidentals;- woman wore white to the wedding;- man forgot to buy a groomsman vest. Had to go to mall day before wedding to improvise;-baby cried during service and wedding coordinator had to escort them out;- rented a cabin for the weekend for the wedding party. Lots of partying and drinking. They brought the baby without asking us and then got mad/ turned off lights when we were too loud (we paid for it btw, about 400$ per person);-man kept knocking on our door ON OUR WEDDING NIGHT as we were having sex asking if we saw his keys;- they didn’t buy us a gift.Oh. And I found out later that the man’s mom offered to fly to colorado from Texas to babysit the baby while they were at the wedding/ cabin and they declined."reddit

3. Her sister took over her wedding day... And a cabin for the wedding night

"My sister took my wedding cabin because she refused to stay at my house with the other guests, and then announced her pregnancy at my wedding.... 12 years later and my husband is still bitter about it."reddit

The Weight of Expectations

Weddings often embody high expectations, both socially and personally, which can lead to significant stress for couples, as noted in studies by Dr. Elizabeth A. Lloyd at the University of Michigan. This pressure to create a ‘perfect’ day can trigger anxiety and overwhelm, particularly when unexpected events arise, like a misbehaving squirrel at the cake table.

Research shows that this phenomenon stems from social comparison theory, where individuals evaluate themselves against societal norms and the experiences of others (Festinger, 1954). The desire for a flawless wedding can lead to feelings of inadequacy if things don't go as planned, reinforcing negative self-perceptions and relational stress.

4. Her son got in a car wreck

"My son (the ring bearer) and his dad got in a wreck on the way to the venue. NOT what I wanted to hear as I was getting 33575789 hairpins installed for my fancy updo!The stylist overheard that conversation and brought me some wine. Kid and Dad were fine, other drivers were fine, they were only a little late, and everything else went off without a hitch.But DAMN. "Your son got in a car wreck" completely snapped me back to reality. The wedding is just fluff; family and marriage are serious commitments that are worth making and keeping."reddit

5. "A squirrel started eating the cake before the wedding even started."

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6. It was the worst mistake of her life

"Besides the part where I was still a child? I had previously discussed how demeaning I found the cake smash.Groom agreed with me. Then did it anyway.I spent part of the reception in the bathroom crying and certain I'd just made the worst mistake of my life. I was right.He nearly f*****g killed me."reddit

From a psychological perspective, the phenomenon of humor in the face of adversity can be understood through the lens of resilience. According to research published in the Journal of Positive Psychology, laughter acts as a coping mechanism that helps individuals manage stress (Martin, 2001). Couples who can find humor in mishaps are likely to strengthen their bond through shared experiences, turning potential points of conflict into sources of connection.

This aligns with the concept of psychological flexibility, where the ability to adapt one's thinking and behavior in response to unexpected situations can significantly enhance emotional well-being. Couples should consider practicing mindfulness techniques to cultivate this flexibility, allowing them to navigate their wedding day with a sense of humor and grace.

7. A lot of things went wrong:

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8. "Realizing I don't love him as we danced our first dance."

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9. The caterer ruined her wedding and caused her anaphylactic shock

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Coping Mechanisms Under Stress

Clinical psychologists emphasize the importance of adaptive coping strategies when dealing with stressful events, such as weddings. A study published in the Journal of Health Psychology found that couples who utilized problem-focused coping were better equipped to handle unexpected challenges (Folkman & Moskowitz, 2004).

In practical terms, this means that having a solid plan B and effective communication with each other and wedding vendors can mitigate feelings of helplessness when things go awry. Couples should engage in pre-wedding discussions to establish how they will respond to potential mishaps, fostering a sense of teamwork and shared problem-solving that can enhance their relationship during high-pressure situations.

10. Her cousin took her the last pieces of cheesecake

"We had a HUGE Italian style dessert bar served after the cake. I was to busy dancing, talking and having fun to make it over to the desserts.My mom asked if I wanted anything and she would make a to go box. I say yes, cheesecake.That's all, just cheesecake (it's my fav). Shortly after, my mom tells me it's all gone.My cousin comes to tell me goodbye, holding a desert box. We chat, tells me how much fun she had, how great the food and desert was.Then says "the cheesecake was amazing, you should get some!" She opens the box to show me, 4 slices of cheesecake, along with a ton of other desserts.I asked her if I could please have just 1 slice. She said "no, it's mine, should have gotten to it quicker!"I begged her and explained its my favorite desert. She still said no and promptly left."reddit

1. The bride’s grandfather died right before the ceremony.

"Not my wedding…but I officiated a wedding where the bride’s grandfather died in the bathroom minutes before the ceremony was supposed to start.Ended up doing chest compressions until EMS arrived and then rolled up to officiate and tell my silly little jokes while the family actively repressed their emotions - *because they did not tell the bride*."reddit

12. "No body showed up at my wedding"

"Me and my husband invited over 50 people and a lot of them said they would be there.Beside the party and family only 3 friends showed up and everyone left right after the cake was cut."reddit

The role of social support in stressful situations cannot be overstated. Research by Cohen and Wills (1985) demonstrates that perceived social support can buffer against the negative effects of stress, promoting better health outcomes. During weddings, friends and family members often play a crucial role in providing emotional and practical support when things go wrong.

Couples should proactively seek support from trusted family and friends, creating a network that not only helps with logistics but also offers emotional reassurance. This approach can help couples feel more grounded, allowing them to enjoy their special day despite unexpected hurdles.

13. Found out he cheated

"Getting married hours after I found out that he’d slept with other women because at that point I felt like… I mean, what do I do?(Not get married is the correct answer but I did)"reddit

14. Her mom broke her foot

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15. Her husband was a ballroom dancer and wanted to show his skills despite she couldn't keep up with him.

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Emotional Regulation in High-Stress Situations

Research on emotional regulation suggests that couples who practice mindfulness are better equipped to manage stress during significant life events like weddings. Dr. John C. D’Arcy from Harvard Medical School highlights that mindfulness can enhance emotional awareness and self-regulation, reducing the likelihood of heightened emotional responses during crises (D'Arcy, 2015).

Mindfulness techniques, such as focused breathing and grounding exercises, can help couples remain present and calm when faced with wedding day mishaps. By integrating these practices into their daily routines leading up to the wedding, couples can build resilience and improve their emotional responses in the face of unexpected challenges.

16. Her mom made her a scene.

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17. Bees got under her wedding dress, and the rest is hilarious

"Two bees flew up into my wedding gown as my Dad, myself and my attendants walked across the grounds of the venue to the ceremony area. I screamed and immediately began pulling up the bottom of my dress as the bees stung me, one on my butt and the other in a more delicate area. So there I was with the bottom of my dress pulled up over my head, with my Dad and attendants furiously looking for the culprits. To my horror, I realized the 3 photographers which were snapping photo’s as we walked kept taking pictures, although one did lay his camera down to try and help, which wasn’t great either.Everything got sorted, but I walked down the aisle and got married with half my butt and that other area burning and hurting. I sat on ice packs between dances at the reception.Sure enough when we got our wedding photo’s back for review, there were 5 photo’s of the whole wild scenario."reddit

18. There were so many bad things:

"I forgot to pack my cathedral length veil (venue was destination), I forgot to carry my bouquet, there was an earthquake the morning of, my in laws watched a football game on their phones during the service, and left before the reception. The reception was cancelled because the entire staff of the restaurant we rented out had strep throat.My MOH announced her engagement at my wedding, the best man tried to sleep with a bridesmaid and when turned down, put a hammock between two trees and slept outside. Think this is all bad?Wait for the worst part of the day. I got married."reddit

Cognitive distortions, particularly catastrophizing, can exacerbate stress during weddings. A study in the Journal of Cognitive Therapy found that individuals who frequently engage in catastrophic thinking are more susceptible to anxiety and stress-related disorders (Beck, 2011). This often manifests in wedding scenarios when couples fixate on minor problems, imagining the worst possible outcomes.

To counteract this tendency, couples can benefit from cognitive-behavioral strategies that challenge negative thought patterns. Keeping a journal to document and reframe anxious thoughts can help couples maintain a more balanced perspective, allowing them to focus on the positives of their wedding experience rather than getting caught up in what could go wrong.

19. "You don't belong here"

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20. The terrible pastor

"We asked the pastor from my husband's childhood church to officiate. Very old school conservative.We discussed with him what we wanted him to talk about during the ceremony, marriage being hard work, treat love as a verb, that kind of thing. What he ended up doing was speeding through the passage I wanted read, then talked for 15 minutes about how marriage is for only men and women, how we are made this way and how hormones play a part.I should add that my father-in-law, who walked me down the aisle, is gay. Well known fact.The preacher's speech at my wedding was basically condemnation for my father in law. He was able to laugh it off, but I am still mad about it to this day.We call it the hormone speech, the one black spot on what was otherwise a perfect day."reddit

21. "But a wedding is just a party, it's the marriage that is important."

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The Power of Shared Experiences

Psychological research indicates that shared experiences can significantly strengthen interpersonal bonds. A study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that couples who engage in novel and challenging activities together report higher levels of relationship satisfaction (Aron et al., 2000).

This principle can be applied to wedding planning. When couples face unexpected challenges together, like a squirrel stealing their cake, they not only navigate the crisis but also create a memorable story that can enhance their connection. Emphasizing teamwork during the planning process can lead to a more fulfilling partnership and a deeper emotional bond.

22. Her husband's father's new wife

"My husband's father's (who my husband was not close with) new wife who we both had met once showed up in the exact same dress as my bridesmaids. The 1 conversation I had with her I told her what they were wearing so it was very intentional.She also showed up with my husband's mom's fur coat on top of it. And then tried to walk in with the wedding party.I swore she was going to get jumped by my grandmother in law."reddit

23. "My husband's mistress was there (I obviously had no idea about this until after we were married)."

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24. Her mom is a great seamstress but didn't want to make her a wedding dress

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Understanding the concept of ‘sunk cost fallacy’ can help couples manage their expectations and emotional responses during wedding planning. Research published in the Journal of Behavioral Decision Making shows that individuals often continue investing in a decision based on previously invested resources rather than rational assessments of future benefits (Arkes & Blumer, 1985).

This can manifest in wedding planning when couples feel compelled to stick with a vendor or a specific plan despite clear signs it’s not working. Couples should regularly assess their options and be willing to pivot when necessary, fostering a mindset of flexibility and adaptability that can lead to a more enjoyable planning experience.

25. The MIL

"MIL shared the news before we could. We eloped, and didn't tell anyone until 30 mins before.We only told immediate family right before, with very clear directions not to share with anyone yet. We got married in the evening, turned our phones off, and in the morning woke up to messages from all of the inlaws (aunts/uncles and cousins).We had originally planned to do a social post within a couple days, but because she shared our news, we opted not to at all. My family waited until I gave the go ahead to share it with others (to the point my little sister told me that my dad was having a really hard time not sharing it with his brother/my uncle, but he knew it wasn't his news to share, so he didn't).At least we know who gets any other big news last now."reddit

26. Her mom got drunk and passed out

"My time has come! My mom got black out drunk and passed out in the bathroom.My boss had to carry her out. I mentioned it to her a few weeks later, and she had no idea that had happened.Still hasn't apologized for it."reddit

27. The grandma

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The Role of Humor in Relationships

Humor is a powerful tool in relationships, especially during stressful times. Research by Dr. Rod A. Martin suggests that couples who share a sense of humor report greater relationship satisfaction and resilience (Martin, 2007). Humor can diffuse tension and foster a sense of connection, making it particularly valuable on a day filled with high expectations and potential pitfalls.

In practical terms, couples can cultivate humor by reflecting on past mishaps or engaging in light-hearted activities during the planning process. This not only prepares them for handling unexpected events but also reinforces their bond through shared laughter, making the wedding day a more enjoyable experience.

28. "My husbands step mother put on a ball gown for the ceremony (that we had on the beach) and then changed into a skin tight white outfit with Diamond embellishments for the reception."

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29. She overdid it

"My Mother In Law wanted to see my wedding lingerie to make sure she approved of it. It was one of my first times with her and I was trying to please her to get in her good graces.It was all about control."reddit

30. It was her

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Practical Strategies for Stress Management

Implementing practical stress management strategies can significantly improve couples' experiences leading up to and during their wedding. Research from the American Psychological Association highlights the effectiveness of relaxation techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation and visualization (APA, 2020).

By setting aside regular times for these practices, couples can lower their baseline stress levels, enabling them to approach wedding planning and the actual day with a calmer mindset. Additionally, developing a realistic timeline and delegating responsibilities can alleviate feelings of being overwhelmed, fostering a more positive experience overall.

31. The mother in law

"My mother-in-law got ten kinds of sh**ty drunk and made scenes all day and night. This included crying every single minute of the day (she looks like someone died in all the pics), standing on a chair to dance, cornering my sister to yell at her for absolutely no reason, stole almost all the centerpieces (which belonged to the venue) and calling our hotel room at 3 am because my husband’s friends wouldn’t let his 16-year-old sister into their hotel room party.Basically, my mother-in-law was the worst part of our wedding."reddit

32. That's why he's an ex now

"My now ex-husband threw me into a painting and onto the ground during our first dance. Should have known it was a sign of things to come."reddit

33. "Our photographers were a husband and wife team and loudly fought the whole day. Super awkward."

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Cultural Perspectives on Weddings

Cultural expectations surrounding weddings can greatly influence how couples perceive their special day. Research indicates that collectivist cultures often prioritize family involvement and adherence to tradition, whereas individualistic cultures may focus more on personal expression and autonomy (Triandis, 1995). This can create tension for couples trying to balance their desires with family expectations.

Couples should engage in open dialogues about their cultural values and expectations with each other and their families. By negotiating these aspects, they can create a wedding that honors both personal and familial significance, reducing the stress associated with conflicting expectations.

34. Haha, a lot of things:

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35. Bad things had started a week before the wedding

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36. "I got stung by a bee on my ring finger 1 hour before the ceremony."

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Ultimately, the unexpected events that occur at weddings, while often frustrating, can serve as valuable lessons in resilience and adaptability. A study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology indicates that learning to embrace uncertainty can enhance psychological flexibility, allowing individuals to cope better with stress (Hayes et al., 2006).

Couples can approach their wedding day with the mindset that imperfections are a part of the journey. By reframing unexpected challenges as opportunities for growth, they can cultivate a more relaxed and enjoyable experience, transforming potential horror stories into cherished memories.

37. "My photographer got drunk and stoned. "

"All our wedding photos are orange and blurry so we made our photo album courtesy with the photos from a good friend who had a good camera and great skills!"reddit

38. What a disaster

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39. "A friend showed up in a white jumpsuit"

"The DJ's mics didn't work during the ceremony, she played the wrong song for our first dance, and her reception playlist included no danceable music (there was even Blink 182). The caterer refused to put wine bottles on the tables as agreed but put all the stemware there so guests had to bring their glasses to the bar.Our photographer's ideas of "casual and candid shots of our guests having fun" was zooming in on one person's face in a group of 5+ with everyone else's head shown from the back and blurred out. Every photo looked like this.Only our posed wedding party shots were usable."reddit

40. Brother's love

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41. Her mother broke her shoulder

"We had a little gathering in my yard for my wedding. My friends were hanging out and we were having pizza by our fire pit when my mother came out to pick up some leftover stuff.She tripped in the dark and broke her shoulder, she's had a permanent reduction of mobility and a lot of pain since. My mother and I were the only two who didn't have a drink so we spent the night in the ER.Oh, and my husband is estranged from his parents so he forgot the date we picked was *their* wedding anniversary. This is after saying he didn't want to get married close to *my* parents anniversary.Edit: forgot, I have food allergies and the catering put my allergen in the food. I decided to consume a bunch of cupcakes for dinner."reddit

Even if you have planned something to the tiniest details, it could still go wrong due to various circumstances. But the most important is to let it go and don't let those little things or human beings ruin your day.

After a while, you'll have a funny memory that you will probably never forget.

Psychological Analysis

Weddings are often laden with high expectations, which can create significant stress for couples; when things go awry, it's a reminder that perfection is an unrealistic goal. The ability to laugh and find humor in unexpected mishaps, like a squirrel stealing the cake, can actually strengthen relationships by fostering resilience and creating shared memories. Couples who approach their wedding day with a mindset of flexibility and teamwork are likely to navigate challenges more successfully, transforming potential disasters into cherished stories.

Analysis generated by AI

Moving Forward: Actionable Steps

Research supports the idea that couples who approach their wedding day with flexibility and humor tend to navigate unexpected challenges more successfully. Evidence-based interventions, such as mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral strategies, can significantly enhance emotional resilience, allowing couples to enjoy their special day despite mishaps. The key insight from this body of research is that the true essence of a wedding lies not in its perfection but in the bonds of love and partnership that it celebrates, with every unexpected moment contributing to the unique story of their relationship.