10 Secrets of a Happy (and Stress-Free!) Groom-To-Be
Have a clear vision of your wedding day before you start planning in earnest. What are the top three things that are most important to you and your future spouse?
Photo: Heidi & Heather Wedding Photography
Whether you’ve been planning your wedding for months or are recently engaged, you may be feeling a little overwhelmed with the whole planning thing. Then you find yourself talking to also-engaged friends or family members who seem to be totally calm and relaxed about their impending wedding. What’s their secret? We’re here to share!
Here are ten secrets of being happy and stress free during the wedding planning process.
Figure out what's important
It’s essential to have a clear vision of your wedding day before you start planning in earnest. What are the top three things that are most important to you and your future spouse? Whether it’s having five-star food, a packed dance floor, an amazing photographer, stunning décor, or something else, make sure your priorities are clearly outlined so you can refer back to them if things get confusing.
Stay organized
It’s one thing to come up with a budget and start a wedding checklist, but the important part is making sure you frequently update these as you move through the planning process. Even if you’re not the most organized person to begin with, it’s worth the extra effort to keep the planning process running smoothly.
Divide responsibilities
Don’t try to do it all yourself. Divide wedding-related tasks evenly with your spouse, and don’t be shy about asking for help from others if necessary.
Find vendors you actually like
You may be searching for the most talented photographer/DJ/caterer/florist in town, but what you really should be looking for is someone who you actually enjoy spending time with. Your wedding vendors will be there to help guide you as you plan this occasion, so choosing wedding pros you actually like is a must—and will make the process run smoothly, too! Reading vendor reviews will help you get insight into a wedding pro's personality from the perspective of couples who have been there.
Trust each other
Don’t micromanage your future spouse when it comes to wedding-planning responsibilities. Allow him or her to make decisions on his or her own, knowing that he or she has your best interests at heart. Of course, open communication is essential, but give each other some breathing room, too.
Create the right wedding party crew
Having a supportive bunch of friends and family members close by will help you stay calm and collected, even when things get stressful. Whether it’s providing a supportive ear, helping out with wedding planning responsibilities, or just being a group you can let loose with, your crew should be there to support your every step of the way.
Don’t go gift crazy
Yes, it’s a good idea to register for gifts, but don’t become obsessed about what each guest gave you. Be grateful for their thoughtfulness and be sure to send a timely thank-you note.
Be flexible
When things don’t go your way, instead of getting angry—get creative. Whether it’s a rainy forecast or an unavailable flower, trust your vendors’ ingenuity to find solutions to any problems that may arise. Your wedding may not turn out exactly as you planned, but it will still be amazing.
Create a wedding day timeline—and stick to it
Your wedding day should be stress-free and fun. To avoid a chaotic situation, make sure that you and your spouse (with the help of a wedding coordinator, if you have one) have drawn up a detailed timeline of the day that you share with wedding vendors, and wedding party members.
Don’t let wedding planning take over your life
Your engagement period is a very special time—don’t forget to enjoy it. Try not to talk about your wedding all the time, and spend time with family and friends, who will help put everything into perspective.
