Staying Sane While Planning Your Wedding

Planning a wedding can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be a nightmare. There are many ways to keep a level head while organising your big day. From staying organised and asking for help, to taking time away from wedding talk and focusing on your relationship, there are plenty of ways to keep yourself sane. It's also important to remember that this is a special time and you should enjoy the process. So, take a breath, and dive into our tips for keeping calm while planning your dream wedding.

Ask for help

Wedding planning can be stressful, and it is impossible to do everything alone. It is important to ask for help.

First, you must set expectations and compromise on costs, traditions, guests, and other aspects of the wedding with your partner. This way, you and your partner can present a united front when discussing wedding plans with your families. It is also crucial to stay on top of your spending throughout the process.

Next, consider hiring a wedding planner to help manage the logistics of the special day. A qualified and experienced planner can provide invaluable advice and support, as well as help you find venues and vendors that match your specific needs, style, and budget.

Don't be afraid to delegate tasks to your wedding party, family, and friends. They are often happy to help and want to make your wedding memorable and stress-free. Utilize tools like Zola to create a checklist and due dates for tasks, and don't be afraid to say "wait" if you need more time.

Finally, remember to make time for self-care and non-wedding-related activities. Schedule regular date nights with your partner where wedding chat is banned, and ensure you are getting enough sleep, eating healthily, and finding time to relax and unwind.

Take breaks

Taking breaks is essential to staying sane while planning your wedding. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement and stress of wedding planning, but it's crucial to remember to take time for yourself and step away from the planning process occasionally. Here are some ways to effectively take breaks and maintain your sanity during this busy time:

Declaring wedding-free days and zones can help you recharge and refocus. This means refraining from discussing wedding details, avoiding online wedding-related content, and occasionally "forgetting" about the wedding altogether. By taking a conscious break from wedding planning, you'll be able to approach it with renewed energy and a fresh perspective.

Schedule "me time" just as you would for important wedding tasks. Block out dedicated time slots, whether 20 minutes or a few hours, to engage in activities that help you relax and rejuvenate. This can be anything from a quick coffee break to a day spent binge-watching your favourite TV show. Self-care is essential to maintaining your sanity during stressful periods.

Maintain your daily habits and routines as much as possible. While it's tempting to want to try new diets or intense workout routines to look a certain way for your wedding, drastic changes can often add more stress and disrupt your sense of well-being. Instead, focus on healthy eating, staying hydrated, and regular exercise without veering too far from your usual routines.

Don't be afraid to ask for help. Wedding planning can be overwhelming, and it's important to recognise when you need support. Delegate tasks to your wedding party, friends, or family members who are usually more than happy to lend a helping hand. Remember, you don't have to do it alone, and sharing responsibilities can significantly reduce your stress levels.

Surprise date nights with your partner, free from wedding talk, can be a fun way to take a break from planning. Focus on your relationship and enjoy each other's company without the pressure of wedding details. This will help you stay connected and keep the excitement of your upcoming life together at the forefront of your minds.

Be flexible

Planning a wedding can be stressful, and it's important to stay flexible and adaptable to avoid getting overwhelmed. Here are some tips to help you stay sane during the process:

It's easy to get caught up in wanting every detail to be perfect and match your dream wedding vision. However, it's important to remember that it's okay to let go of perfection and be flexible. No matter how well-organised you are, there are some aspects of your wedding day that you can't control. For example, if you're planning an outdoor wedding and there's a sudden change in weather, don't panic! Instead, embrace the change and be prepared with a plan B. This will help you stay calm and adaptable, ensuring you can enjoy the process leading up to your big day.

Delegate Tasks and Ask for Help

Recognise that you don't have to do everything alone. Delegate tasks to your bridal party, family, or friends, and trust that they will carry out their duties. This will help lighten your load and allow you to focus on other aspects of the wedding. Don't be afraid to ask for help if you feel overwhelmed. Your loved ones will likely be happy to lend a hand and support you in any way they can.

Stay Organised but Adaptable

Create a checklist to guide you through the planning process, using resources like Zola, which offers checklists with due dates and tasks tailored to your wedding type. While staying organised is essential, remember that not everything has to be done at once. Prioritise tasks, stay flexible, and be prepared to adapt as unexpected challenges or changes arise.

Keep Your Relationship at the Centre

Remember that your wedding day is about celebrating your relationship and the start of your "forever" with your partner. Make sure to set expectations and compromise together on costs, traditions, guests, and other aspects of the wedding. This will help you stay united and ensure that your wedding reflects both of your personalities and values.

Take Breaks and Focus on Self-Care

It's important to schedule time for yourself and your well-being. Take breaks from wedding planning and declare "wedding-free" days or zones. Focus on getting enough sleep, maintaining a healthy diet, and engaging in relaxing activities like meditation or exercise. This will help you stay grounded and ensure that the journey to your wedding day is just as enjoyable as the day itself.

By following these tips and staying flexible, you can approach your wedding planning with a calm and positive mindset, creating a memorable and meaningful experience for yourself and your partner.

Keep it simple

Keeping things simple is a great way to stay sane during the wedding planning process. It is important to remember that it is your day, and your partner's, so try not to get too caught up in the details and opinions of others.

First, set expectations and compromise with your partner. Discuss what is most important to each of you and keep these in mind throughout the process. Be realistic about what you can achieve and how much time you have. Create a wedding-day timeline to help you stay on track and focused.

Consider using a wedding planner or checklist to guide you. A wedding planner can provide invaluable advice and support, helping you manage the emotional and logistical aspects of planning a wedding. They can also provide vendor and venue suggestions that match your specific needs, style, and budget. If you are not keen on hiring a wedding planner, there are plenty of websites and books to help you stay organized, such as Zola, which offers checklists with due dates and tasks tailored to your wedding type.

Remember, it is okay to ask for help. Delegate tasks to your maid or man of honour, friends, and family. People usually want to help, so don't be afraid to reach out and assign duties.

Stay on top of your spending

Wedding planning can be a stressful time, and it is easy for costs to spiral out of control. Here are some tips to help you stay on top of your spending:

Be realistic about what you can afford

Before you start planning, be honest about what you can afford. Consider your savings, how much you can save during your engagement, and whether your parents will be contributing. It is also important to factor in your daily expenses, such as rent or mortgage, car payments, and any debts, as well as future costs such as medical expenses or a down payment on a home. This will help you create a realistic budget and ensure you are not overspending.

Do your research

If you have never planned a wedding before, it can be challenging to know all the costs involved. Do your research in advance to understand what is typically included in a wedding and to identify your priorities. There are many websites and books that can help guide you through the process and provide checklists to ensure you do not miss anything.

Prioritize and be prepared to compromise

Make a list of your must-haves and be prepared to compromise on other things. For example, you may need to skip the live band or extravagant floral arrangements to stay within your budget. Remember, your wedding is just one day, and you do not want to go broke because of it!

Shop around for the best deals

You do not have to spend a fortune on everything. Look for cost-effective options and be thrifty where you can. Reusing or repurposing items can save money, and those little savings will add up.

Stay informed and ask for help

Be clear about expectations

Discuss with your partner what you will and will not be doing for your wedding, and be upfront with your families. Compromise on costs, traditions, and guests, and present a united front when talking to your families.

Remember, wedding spending can quickly get out of control, so it is important to stay informed, realistic, and true to your priorities and budget.

Frequently asked questions