5 Tips to Destress Your Wedding

You’re getting married! That should create reasons to be joyful and celebratory! As a wedding officiant, I see firsthand how stress robs couples of what should be a happy and even fun time envisioning their future. However, once couples start planning, it can quickly turn to stress and frustration. And who wants that?  I suggest the following to lessen the pressure to support the bliss.

1. Put Your Relationship at the Center

In the whirlwind of planning and expectations of family members, it is easy to lose sight of what is most important: this is your wedding. Make sure you discuss the most meaningful parts together, like the ceremony. Honor each other throughout the process.

2. Make Time for Self Care 

In addition, make sure you create time to spend with one another beyond planning. The stress of planning can take a toll on your intimacy. Put limits on planning and make sure you are eating well, exercising, and making time to have dates and have fun.

3. Set Boundaries with Loved Ones

Some people will want to give you their input–even demand it. Set appropriate boundaries. Sometimes we have parents and family helping pay for the wedding, so their expectations are essential and should be considered. Have those conversations upfront. Invite them to be transparent with you and set your boundaries accordingly. Too often, misunderstandings or unreasonable demands create stress because people are unclear about the expectations from the start. 

4. Create Clear Priorities

 Most wedding planning leads to many details and moving parts. Don’t let the small details get in the way. The best way to do that is to get clear on your priorities and create your most essential list. Let this list be your compass throughout your process, so you put your energy and your dollars where they are most important.

5. Hire a Wedding Planner

Most weddings, big or small, could use the help of a wedding planner. If you can afford one, they take a great deal of responsibility off your shoulders and use their knowledge for greater efficiency and savings. On the wedding day, their support is invaluable in solving challenges and ensuring the day runs smoothly and on time. If you cannot afford a planner, recruit a close friend, even if it is only for the wedding day.

Nothing as important as a wedding is stress-free, but with these tips (especially #5), you can make the time leading up to your wedding much more enjoyable and joyful!