Jun 12, 201210:07 AMBay Buzz
10 Tips for a Stressed Bride
This past weekend, I had the pleasure of watching two friends I’ve known since kindergarten tie the knot. As a torrential downpour threatened to ruin the entire weekend’s festivities, I stood amazed and remarkably impressed at the bride’s cool, carefree demeanor. Streets flooded, décor was forgotten and suddenly the wedding gown that fit like a glove two weeks prior was two sizes too big. Nonetheless, it was nothing a few safety pins and a little TLC couldn’t fix.
As a bride inching closer to my own big day, I couldn’t help but shake my head in disbelief. Four months out, I still check the farmers’ almanac religiously and harp on the miniscule details I know few others will even notice.
Surely other brides-to-be would back me up in justifying my concerns, but I suppose the words of wisdom given from family and friends are finally beginning to sink in. Roll with the punches, and take the day as it comes. Your wedding day is not about having a perfectly executed ceremony or the most spectacular display of flowers; it’s about getting married. Ditch stress and laugh at the mishaps—they’ll most likely make the best memories.
To help you accomplish this goal, I’ve compiled a list of tips I've picked up along the way to help you survive the planning process and make your special day as happy and relaxing as it can be. Best wishes to all of the Bay area’s summer brides!
1. Devise a planning schedule, and stick to it. Wedding timelines will keep you on track and in control.
2. Once you make a decision on any particular item, stop looking at other options! Sifting through photos of wedding dresses after you’ve selected “the one” will only make you second-guess your original choice.
3. Find new ways to include your groom when making decisions. He may not have a strong opinion on jewelry or flowers, but giving him small projects to tackle will make him feel appreciated and take pressure off of you.
4. Outdoor weddings in Mobile are risky no matter the month, so be sure you have a solid back-up plan in place should a line of showers roll in. Hash out the plan with your photographer in advance in case indoor lighting equipment is needed.
5. Choose your bridal party with care, not obligation. Eliminate unwanted stress by surrounding yourself with the friends and family members you know will make your special day that much more special.
6. Compromises keep the peace. Great Aunt Susie's head-to-toe lace gown may not be the dress of your dreams, but pieces of the fabric might work beautifully wrapped around you and your bridesmaids' bouquets. A little creativity is all you need to integrate your vision with others'.
7. Afraid vendors are going to forget about you? Gather a few bridesmaids to make confirmation calls in the weeks leading up to the big day to ease your mind and smooth out any last-minute kinks.
8. Pack a few out-of-the-box items. Safety pins and bandages are staples, but don’t feel silly throwing double-sided tape and a hot glue gun in your day-of bag. Crazier things have happened.
9. Say "thank you." Family, friends and guests made time in their busy schedules to celebrate with you. Viewing the situation from a different perspective will help you see what truly matters.
10. Remember to laugh. Some of the fondest memories from my sister's wedding include piling the entire wedding party into a limousine to beat the rain and the accidental chocolate icing on the groom's carrot cake. No matter what, you end the day happily married!
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