Top Ways to Reduce Wedding Stress: Part One

Inspired by Kimberly's article from the bride's perspective, I wanted to also share a few of my own recommendations for keeping the wedding stress in check. As I'm sure you all know by now that I can be a little verboss so I have split this post into three. Be sure to visit over the next couple of weeks for a few more pointers...

1. Reduce the Drama
There's no way around it...the more ladies involved, the more drama you are likely to encourage. I'm not saying to not include every last one of your best friends in your wedding, but recognize when the bridesmaids or anyone for that matter is just causing drama. Whether it be because of jealousy or their own nerves about your day being perfect, don't allow anyone to get you worked up by millions of questions, unsolicited opinions, etc. Know when to drown them out or even avoid them if they are just stressing you out with all of their "what ifs" and negative energy.

2. The Less People Involved with Planning the Better
I know people don't like to hear this, but the smoothest planning processes are the ones where one or two people are at the helm. Decide early if you are planning with your mom or fiance or worst case scenario, both. Bringing in others such as your cousin, best friend, soon-to-be mother-in-laws, coworkers, etc. all leads to indecision and typically a wedding that doesn't reflect your style in anyway shape or form. My suggestion is if you HAVE to have all of these people (and maybe more) involved, give out assignments to keep everyone involved and preoccupied. This leaves you to manage the things you really care about and saves some hurt feelings.

3. Do Not Worry About Keeping Up with the Jones', Kardashian's, Goldstein's, etc...
Don't get caught up in whether your boss is going to think your cheap because you choose a DJ over a band. Don't worry about whether your centerpieces are as nice as your BFF's were at her wedding. And for goodness sake, do not try to keep up with celebrities and their million dollar wedding budgets! I know it's easier said than done, but plain and simple, you need to do what keeps you happy, sane, etc. when it comes to your wedding and trying to impress everyone is not only impossible, but the quick path to becoming a very, very, very stressed out Bride.


Three more tips coming next week...