The chances are that, throughout your engagement, you have dreamed of your wedding, imagined it in detail, and felt thrilled about the new chapter of your life. But, as the big day approaches, even minor issues can start to feel insurmountable, and your happy thoughts can quickly turn into anxiety, stress, and worries.
And, if not addressed, this state of mind can cause you to miss out on special moments that you would have otherwise cherished forever! But, for how stressful planning a wedding may be, you can live this experience with ease.
Mentally prepare yourself with these strategies and make the most of the exciting days ahead!
Structure Your Day and Design a Consistent Routine
Planning a wedding is often a once-in-a-lifetime experience. In turn, this means that you might not be prepared for the disruptions and challenges the process will bring, even if temporarily, to your life.
Since, for a few months, your lifestyle will be hectic, packed with new experiences, and filled with important decisions to make, you might end up feeling overwhelmed. Having a structured and consistent daily routine in place can work as an anchor and help you feel more in control of your time.
Build a Solid Support System
As your wedding day approaches and stress levels rise, it is important to remember that you are not alone in this. Aside from your partner, you are surrounded by family members and friends who can help you by offering recommendations and guidance.
What’s more, your bridesmaids will know what to do to help you get ready for your wedding, from offering emotional support to fixing last-minute issues. With such a solid support system, preparing yourself for your wedding day will be a breeze!
Communicate With Your Partner (and Don’t Skip Date Nights!)
When planning a wedding, it is easy to get caught up in the details – and disagreements are not uncommon! However, don’t forget that your other half might be just as stressed or anxious as you are, and keeping all communication channels wide open is crucial to keep your relationship harmonious!
Even more importantly, make sure you keep up with your date nights and find some time each week to spend with your partner.
Pro Tip – With so many decisions to make before your wedding day, it is crucial to have the same vision for the reception and ceremony. Make sure to speak to your partner and fine-tune your expectations!
Make Self-Care Part of Your Routine
Self-care should be a regular aspect of your daily routine at all stages of your life – but it is even more important during the run-up to your wedding day! Dedicating just a few minutes a day to your favorite activities can help you feel more centered and regain a positive outlook on the tasks ahead.
Even more importantly, don’t forget that the environment and people around you can have a significant influence on your mental health. That is why it is important to surround yourself with make-up artists, cosmetologists, and hair stylists that make self-care an integral part of their job.
These professionals will help you understand how to make self-care part of your life and prioritize yourself when you get caught up in a hectic schedule! Here are a few more tips about self care planning to learn more.
Take the Stress Out of the Logistics by Working With a Wedding Planner
If you feel stressed about the logistics of your wedding or you feel that some aspects of your special day have fallen out of your control, working with a specialized wedding planner can help.
These professionals will be able to take some major responsibilities off your hands and help you make sure that you are not forgetting anything important. What’s more, a wedding planner will be by your side throughout each stage of your wedding planning journey, and they have the experience necessary to put your mind at ease and take away some of the stress related to making major wedding-related decisions.
Learn Relaxation Techniques and Breathing Exercises
In the weeks leading up to the day, you’ll tie the knot, you’ll start to feel emotional, financial, and physical pressure. And, unfortunately, such high levels of stress might always be preventable.
However, understanding what to expect from such stressful moments can help you prepare in the best way for them and start practicing relaxation techniques beforehand. For example, you might consider learning how to perform a body scan or introducing breathing techniques in your exercise routine.
Find an Activity That You Truly Enjoy and Exercise Regularly
Physical activity is critical at any stage of your life to keep you healthy and strong. But during the stressful days before your wedding, moving your body on a daily basis can have more benefits than one!
When engaging in physical activity, your brain will release endorphins, a chemical also known as the “happy hormone” for the soothing and feel-good effects it has on the body and mind.
And, if you are not a gym lover, don’t worry! You can benefit from all the positive effects of exercise just by going for a brisk walk, swimming in the sea, or hiking a nature trail!
Use Visualization to Your Advantage (But Address the Worst-Case Scenario)
Visualizing your ideal wedding day can be a great strategy to feel more in control of future events. In particular, practice visualizing the ceremony going well, your joy after tying the knot, and the satisfaction of a party well run.
On the other hand, some aspects, such as the weather, might not be in your control. That is why it is just as important to visualize the worst-case scenario and have a contingency plan in place to ensure that all unexpected obstacles are accounted for.
Consider Consulting a Relationship Counselor
Many couples only consider relationship counseling when things are going wrong. However, consulting a specialized therapist can be beneficial at all stages of a relationship, especially if you have started to feel the emotional pressure of planning a whole wedding!
Consulting a therapist can help you improve your communication, boost your partnership, and rediscover the enjoyment of working as a harmonious team.
On the other hand, if you have been struggling with disagreements and arguments over wedding-related decisions, relationship therapy can provide a safe environment to resolve underlying issues.
Practice Gratitude and Keep a Positive Mindset
There is no avoiding it: the days before your wedding will be stressful and packed with last-minute decisions to confirm or arrangements to make. But don’t forget that the journey to your special day should also be an exciting and enjoyable one, filled with moments that will stay with you for the rest of your life.
So, make sure to keep a positive mindset, prioritize yourself, and practice gratitude towards the ones around you and your life. Making this mindset part of your personality might not happen overnight – but it can truly change how you’ll live your wedding experience!