How to Survive
There’s a cross-section in life between nonchalant single-life and forever being your spouse’s “better half”… and you’re so there. While being single had its incredible ups – and, let’s be honest, downs – it’s over! It is now time to begin planning what will forever hold a place in your heart as one of the most memorable moments in your life. Your big day, the day you dreamed of as a little girl, your WEDDING day is within reach. The first step to succeeding on this amazing journey is to step back, breathe, and then jump right in because procrastinating will only lead to more stress later.
First things first, buy a wedding organizer—a very detailed planner, maybe even one with the hourly slots and lists of telephone numbers in the back that you have always scoffed at because it is too structured. You will have several meetings for tastings, fittings, hair trials, nail appointments, more tasting, more fittings, and – if you are a klutz like me – even more nail appointments. The only way to keep up with everything and be on time is to stay organized. Write down what you need done, who you need to do it, and when it needs to be done.
After your planner is full of appointments, please - for your sanity - create a detailed phone list. Include all of your bridesmaids, all of the groomsmen, your caterer, your florist, the hairdresser, the location manager, and every last person you would ever think you may possibly need to call regarding your wedding. Hand out copies of this phone list to every person on the list. Inform all parties involved of the days you need them to be in attendance and when they need to be there. If you want to be a Bridezilla (I hate this term, but can’t think of a better description!), create a phone tree starting with the most responsible bridesmaid and groomsman to remind the others when they should arrive at each event.
As your big day gets closer, you will want to do run-throughs for hair and makeup (probably more than once, just to make sure you are getting what you truly want out of your helpers). Also, if you have seven bridesmaids do not - I repeat, DO NOT - count on the same person to do all seven heads of hair and all seven faces of make up. Many salons will open their doors a little early and you can get the entire staff in on your big day, you just have to ask. My grandmother always said that many hands make light work, and her saying never holds more true than in this case.
More great tips? Make parties out of tasks that don’t seem like much fun! Want to put birdseed in cute mesh bags for your grand exit? Throw a party with some of your girlfriends who are more than willing to help. Get a sandwich tray and some 2-liters and have a blast. Even the most tedious task will be enjoyable with the friends you know and love.
As always, don't forget our comment section. Let others know how you cut down on stress by giving tips on effective planning!