Planning a wedding takes time and effort, and it's no wonder that so many couples experience stress and anxiety leading up to their special day.
Most Australian brides say that finding a dress is the most stressful part of the wedding preparation, followed closely by coordinating with suppliers and vendors. Pressure and demands from family and in-laws can also contribute to nerves and anxiety, leaving couples unable to enjoy the planning stage of their wedding.
To calm your nerves and enjoy the experience with your partner, it's important to find ways to keep your stress levels down. To look after your mental wellbeing, here's a guide to cope with pre-wedding stress and anxiety.
Start Planning Early
Some aspects of the wedding can be taken care of months ahead of the wedding date, so get some tasks out of the way early on to reduce stress and anxiety. For instance, eight months before the big day, couples can start looking for a wedding dress and suit. They can also book the wedding and reception venue at this time, and start making a draft of the guest list. The wedding rings should also be secured early, and couples should look into designs for the groom's wedding band as well as the bride's ring.
Men who may previously have been unsure about the practicalities of wearing a wedding ring will be reassured by the rise in alternative wedding bands, which offer more practical and durable solutions. Bridesmaids' dresses can also be selected four to six months before the wedding, as well as the groomsmen's formalwear. The more tasks you tackle before the month of your wedding, the less anxious and fatigued you'll feel, so you'll be at your best on your special day.
Talk it Out
Parents and in-laws can be some of the greatest source of stress for couples, and some parents may have lots of demands, especially if they're contributing or paying for the wedding. If this is the case, have a talk with them and explain your vision of your wedding day, and keep in mind that while you should definitely have a say in your own wedding, you should also be flexible enough to compromise so that everyone's happy. Getting everyone to agree on certain elements of the wedding or reception can prevent resentment and fights before your big day.
Take Some Time for Yourself
Stress incurred while planning a wedding can cause skin breakouts, stomach pain and headaches. If you're starting to experience these physical symptoms, take some time for yourself and your partner. Take a break from planning and go on a date, or get pampered at a spa.
Consider going on a picnic at the park or the beach, or escape from it all and have a weekend staycation at a nice AirBnb or hotel. Any activity that helps you to de-stress and relax can put you in a positive mindset, and spending time with the one you love will remind you why you're doing all this in the first place.
Don't let stress put a damper on your wedding day. Try these tips to to calm your mind while planning your wedding, and enjoy your special day.
This article was kindly written and contributed by Cassie Steele.
