Planning a wedding is extremely exciting! This is going to be the best day of your life and a moment you will remember forever. Of course, with so much to think about, it is only natural to feel nervous about the day or stressed about the planning. So, it's important to take note of your stress levels and triggers sooner rather than later as this can build up over time; affecting your enjoyment of the process and your mental health. In honour of World Mental Health Day, we want to run through some of our top tips for managing your stress levels whilst planning your big day. After all, wedding planning should be fun!
Talk to someone
We know you've probably heard this before, but if you really feel like you are struggling, reach out to someone. You're planning an entire wedding, so people will be understanding of the stress you are under. Try to open up to your partner as they may be able to take some of the responsibilities off your shoulders. Alternatively, share your thoughts with a close friend or family member. If none of these feel like options to you, you can find help at Mind or NHS Talking Therapies. Remember, your mental health is just as important as your physical health!
Structure your planning
There's a lot to think about when you plan a wedding but to avoid feeling overwhelmed, we recommend structuring when you plan and making it part of your weekly routine. This is especially helpful if you feel like planning your wedding is starting to consume your life. Set yourself the time aside each week to plan, and decide exactly when you will do it in those sessions. Outside of these hours, be in the moment and give your full attention to whatever else you're doing and maybe even schedule in some 'me time'.
Keep on top of your budget
Keeping control of wedding spending is a natural concern for most couples. If you feel like you're on top of your finances through managing your budget efficiently, you will significantly reduce the stress of planning. Sit down with your partner and create a budget spreadsheet and work out what you are going to spend, have already spent, and allocate the rest of your budget effectively. Read more about how to stick to your wedding budget.
To-do list
Set up a detailed to-do list so you can track your progress easily. Your list should include planning the larger details like the venue, to the finishing touches such as the invitations. When you complete the planning for an area of your wedding, no matter how big or small, tick it off and allow yourself to feel accomplished. Even if there is still a lot to do, you have made progress, and everything will come together in the end. Don't forget, we've already set up your wedding checklist list for you within your Guides for Brides online wedding planner.
Self-care
Wedding planning is fun, but remember that it's a lot of work and you will need a break from it. Make time on a regular basis to unwind and really let yourself relax and reset. A bubbly, hot bath will make you feel cosy and refreshed. Equally, a hot shower with your favourite tunes playing will hopefully brighten your mood. Whether it's letting yourself get lost in a good book, snuggling up on the sofa to watch your favourite Netflix series, baking a delicious cake or simply lighting a calming aromatherapy candle like Bride Calm, do whatever you need to do to feel peaceful.
Confide in the professionals
It's quite likely that you haven't been involved in planning a wedding before, but there are plenty of professionals who do this every day. So, when it gets overwhelming, don't be afraid to ask for help from the professionals. Your venue and wedding suppliers will be delighted to answer any questions you may have and assist with what they can. Additionally, one of the best people to enlist when things get too much is a wedding planner; they will have done this hundreds of times! Whether you need them to take over the planning, take the reins on the big day or simply provide consultation to help you feel like you are back on track, they will be attentive to your wedding planning needs and help you feel in control.
Exercise
Take some time to sweat the stress out and release your endorphins. Science has shown that getting your blood pumping is great for both your mental and physical health. If you feel like the gym is too overwhelming, try a hobby that is more suited to you. Perhaps it's going for a swim, joining a dance class, or even just having a daily walk. Whatever you do, your mind and body will thank you for it!
Take baby steps
As well as having a to-do list, it can also be helpful to break down your tasks into daily, weekly or even monthly goals. Don't feel like you have to get everything done at once, as wedding planning is a process that takes time. Write a list of goals you want to have achieved by the end of the week, and focus only on those things. You will find that slowly, but surely, you have worked through everything, without feeling panicked or stressed.
Mindfulness to reduce stress
You can practice mindfulness in a number of ways, but two of the best are meditation and yoga. You could join a class, practice with your partner or a friend, or do this alone. There are some great apps out there which will guide you through meditation sessions, and teach you the best mindfulness techniques. Read more into how mindfulness can reduce wedding stress.
Do something you enjoy
Give yourself time to let your hair down. Although self-care and mindfulness are great ways to cope with stress, make sure that you do something now and again which makes you feel excited. Go out partying with your friends, make time for that romantic dinner, go to see your favourite singer at a concert! Whatever it is, let yourself have some time where you can just enjoy being with those you love, without talking about your wedding planning.
Try not to sweat the small stuff
Easier said than done, we know. But ultimately, your wedding is supposed to be a happy, joyous occasion that you will look back on fondly. It's likely that the only person putting pressure on the wedding being perfect is yourself; everyone else will just be happy to enjoy the special day with you. When you look back at your wedding in 10 years time, you won't remember all the things you were stressing about. Try to enjoy the process, and make the best memories with your partner, friends and family!
If you're not sure where to go to start your wedding planning process, you can find your perfect wedding venue and suppliers at Guides for Brides. We really hope that this article has helped you to feel a little less stressed about planning your big day.
