Top 5 Things to Do

From the guest list to the reception to the rings, the idea of planning a wedding can be overwhelming. Below are the most important things to keep in mind as you negotiate the first 30 days of the wedding planning process.

1. Focus on your relationships.

The most important thing during this vital time is to continue to build your relationships with your mate, your families and your friends. Any time the wedding planning heat up, remind yourself that your focus is on the marriage, not on the wedding itself.

2. Pace yourself.

Although everyone is asking you a million questions, don’t be pressured to push your wedding planning into hyperdrive. In the span of your lifetime, your engagement is the equivalent of a few seconds. Savor this time by letting your planning momentum build slowly.

3. Get in sync.

Work with your partner to set your priorities for the wedding before you start talking plans with anyone else. If you can both agree on what you want, you’ll remain a united front as you begin to discuss your plans with your families and friends. This ensures that the event truly reflects your wishes and determines what aspects of the wedding have room for compromise and can be delegated to others, such as your eager mother.

4. Embrace your emotions.

Remember that experiencing a wide range of emotions during wedding planning is normal—a typical reaction can include anything from pure joy and ecstasy to fear and grief. Find someone you can trust to discuss your feelings with, whether it’s a friend, family member, clergyman or therapist.

5. Take care of yourself.

You may be exercising in order to look your best for the wedding, but don’t forget to prioritize sleep, healthy eating, hydration and peaceful downtime when you’re frazzled. The better you treat your body and mind, the better equipped you’ll be to make rational decisions and cope with intense planning during this amazing time of your life.