Managing Stress Before Your Wedding Day

As a bride-to-be, you’re bombarded with a growing pile of tasks demanding your attention, and the resulting stress can overpower what’s supposed to be a joyous time in your life. Instead, emerge from the pile of fabric swatches, font styles, and contracts and… just… breathe.

Have the strength to step away
During your engagement, step away from the wedding planning and take time to enjoy the process. Sure, kicking up your heels and relaxing as your task list expands exponentially may sound impossible. In reality, allowing yourself some time to rejuvenate will not only reduce wedding stress will ultimately make your wedding planning more efficient. Here are some tips for keeping the stress level down and having the time of your life…

Assess the situation and delegate
Before you become buried in a million different tasks, decide what you can handle and who you can count on for help. Your friends and loved ones will want to be involved so don’t be afraid to delegate planning tasks. And whatever you do, avoid taking on more than you can handle. Just be honest with yourself and set realistic expectations.

Build a strong vendor team
Of course, budget is always a concern, but building a strong team of wedding professionals, including a planner will most likely save you time and money in the long run. Seek out recommendations from friends and vet vendors carefully before signing on the dotted line. An experienced photographer or deejay can make a world of difference and reduce your stress level tenfold. You should only have to worry about yourself and the tasks you plan to complete. Once a wedding professional is booked, you should feel confident that they will execute their job flawlessly.

Reclaim your life
What activities comprised your free time before wedding planning seized your soul? Reading? Shopping? Crafts? Don’t let those activities slip; take that time to yourself and enjoy the relaxation that comes with doing something that you enjoy. Even if just for a few hours a week, it will make a world of difference.

Meditate
Sure, it may not be your thing, but sitting quietly with yourself a few minutes per day and focusing on your breath can help you stay relaxed. When you’re lying in bed at night, focus on the in-and-out cycle of your breathing, while staying conscious. It’s important to relax your muscles and slow your heart before drifting off to sleep.

Take care of your body
Staying strong and healthy through your wedding panning process is essential to reducing stress. Make time to go for a run, attend that yoga class, or stick to whatever routine you prefer. “Physical movement produces stress-stablizing endorphins creating lasting positive emotional effects,” says CrossFit trainer Erica Katalia. Even a simple walk or dance session in the kitchen can get your blood moving and help inspire fresh creative ideas.

Keep a journal
Avoid being overcome with too many emotions by jotting down your feelings each day. Keeping your emotions bottled up will only cause anxiety. Identify what is making you feel uncomfortable and get it down on paper. You may be surprised at the results.

Reconnect with friends and loved ones
Has it been weeks or months since you spoke with your best friend or sister (NOT about the wedding)? Losing contact is easy when you’re busy or believe loved ones are out of touch with your life. Take some time to reconnect with your closest friends; ask them about their lives. Keep them up to date on your wedding planning – but also discuss other aspects of your life. You are a multifaceted person, after all.

Cater to someone else for a change
Yes, this is one of the few times in your life when the attention is solely focused on you and your life decisions, and you should enjoy your time in the spotlight. That said, don’t get caught up in the selfishness of being a bride. Do something unexpected for someone else. Take a break from wedding planning and cook a dinner for a friend, serve a meal at your local soup kitchen, babysit for a couple who could use a break…You will be surprised how good (and relaxed) you will feel by making others feel appreciated.

Spend quality time with your fiancé
It’s sadly ironic that in the planning of a new life together, couples often struggle to find quality time with one another in the present. The best way to begin a marriage on the right foot is to avoid neglecting your relationship now. Building a life as one should always be your top priority (remember: It IS the reason behind the big party!), so enjoy romantic evenings together and try not to talk about the wedding. Focus on your relationship and your future beyond the wedding day.

Above all else…
Don’t lose sight of yourself and what’s important. Keeping this in mind will reduce wedding stress – we promise! Savor every moment of your engagement, and arrive at your wedding positively radiant.