Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting times in a couple’s life, but let’s face it – it can also be a tad overwhelming. As you juggle guest lists, venues, and all the tiny details, it’s easy to feel like you’re losing sight of what truly matters.
Hi, I’m Mandi Forrester-Jones from Married by Mandi, a celebrant based in beautiful Brisbane, and I’m here to share some practical tips to help you sail smoothly through this journey. Whether you’re planning a grand affair or an intimate gathering, these tips will help you manage stress, communicate effectively, and maintain a healthy relationship during this joyous time.
Understanding the pressure
First things first – it’s perfectly normal to feel a bit stressed out. Wedding planning comes with its fair share of pressures, but recognising this is the first step towards managing it.
Practical tips for stress management
Create a timeline: Having a clear plan and timeline is essential. Break down tasks into manageable chunks and set realistic deadlines. This helps keep everything on track without feeling overwhelmed.
Delegate tasks: You don’t have to do everything yourself. Delegate tasks to friends, family, or hire professionals. This not only lightens your load but also involves your loved ones in the process.
Take breaks: It’s important to step away from wedding talk every now and then. Schedule regular breaks and date nights to recharge and remind yourselves why you’re getting married in the first place.
Practice self-care: Whether it’s yoga, meditation, or a simple walk in the park, taking time for self-care can work wonders for your mental well-being. Remember, a healthy mind is crucial for effective planning.
Importance of communication
Good communication is the cornerstone of a strong relationship, and it’s even more crucial during wedding planning. Clear, honest conversations can prevent many potential stressors and conflicts.
Regular check-ins: Schedule regular check-ins to discuss your progress, share your feelings, and address any concerns. This keeps both partners on the same page. You can make this fun, plan a regular catch-up walk or coffee date.
Active listening: Practice active listening – pay attention, validate each other’s feelings, and ensure you understand each other’s viewpoints.
Compromise: Be willing to compromise. It’s unlikely that both of you will agree on every single detail, so finding a middle ground is key.
Using ‘I’ statements: When discussing issues, use ‘I’ statements to express your feelings without sounding accusatory. For example, “I feel stressed when we don’t stick to our budget” is more constructive than “You’re always overspending.”
Prioritise your relationship
Amidst the whirlwind of planning, it’s essential to prioritise your relationship. After all, the wedding is just the beginning of your lifelong journey together.
Date nights: Keep the romance alive with regular date nights. Whether it’s a fancy dinner or a movie night at home, these moments help you reconnect and unwind.
Shared hobbies: Engage in hobbies and activities you both enjoy. Whether it’s cooking, hiking, or playing a sport, shared experiences strengthen your bond.
Future planning: Spend time dreaming and planning your future beyond the wedding day. This keeps you both excited and focused on your life together.
Practical budget wedding planning tips
Prioritise expenses: Focus on what matters most to you both and allocate your budget accordingly. Whether it’s the venue, photography, or food, prioritise your expenses.
DIY vs professional services: Decide what you can DIY and what you should leave to the professionals. While DIY can save money, it can also add to your stress if not managed well.
Choosing vendors
Research and reviews: Look at reviews, seek recommendations from friends and family, and do thorough research.
Meet and greet: Arrange meetings with potential vendors to ensure they understand your vision and are a good fit for your wedding.
Staying organised
Organisation is your best friend during wedding planning.
Wedding planning apps: Utilise wedding planning apps to keep track of tasks, timelines, and budgets.
Checklists and spreadsheets: Maintain checklists and spreadsheets for everything – from guest lists to vendor contracts. This helps ensure nothing falls through the cracks.
Celebrating the small wins
Don’t forget to celebrate the milestones along the way. Whether it’s sending out the invites or booking the venue, every step forward is a victory.
Capturing memories
Keep a wedding planning journal or scrapbook. Documenting this journey not only creates a beautiful keepsake but also helps you remember the fun and joy of the process.
Staying present
Lastly, stay present and enjoy the process. It’s easy to get caught up in the details, but remember to savour the moments and enjoy this special time together.
Wedding planning is a unique journey that brings its own set of challenges and joys. While it can be overwhelming at times, it’s also an opportunity to deepen your bond and create beautiful memories. By managing stress, communicating effectively, and prioritising your relationship, you can navigate this process with ease and joy. Remember, the wedding is just the beginning of your lifelong adventure together.
And if you’re looking for a celebrant who can bring warmth, joy, and a personal touch to your ceremony, don’t hesitate to reach out to me, Mandi Forrester-Jones, at Married by Mandi. Happy planning and all the best for your big day!
Wishing you all the love and happiness in the world as you embark on this beautiful journey together. Cheers to a wonderful wedding and an even more wonderful marriage!
