Don’t let wedding day nerves get the better of you! The pressure of wanting things to be just right can produce lots of anxiety, so here Helen Cobby has some suggestions on how to reduce these (natural) feelings and make the most of your day…
Think positive
Instead of reading into others’ reactions to your ideas and preparations for the wedding, try the ultimate positive thinking technique and assume support. Everyone wants you to have a beautiful day, so remember you are all working towards the same goal.
This will take the pressure off others as well as yourself. It will also create more time for you and your wedding helpers to concentrate on your fabulous plans. Remember, a ‘can-do’ attitude is infectious, so thinking and acting positive will make those around you more inclined to help sort any planning problems and make your dream day a reality.
Be yourself
Remember the wedding is all about YOU (and your groom!). If you are feeling nervous about being the centre of attention, try thinking of your ‘performance’ on the day as a friendly chat instead – after all, you are among family and friends!
Try talking to one guest at a time, and make sure you give them plenty of eye contact. This way you will connect with your friends, be yourself and make the most of each delicious moment.
Keep communicating
Let people know how nervous you feel in the lead up to the big day. Although friends and family are likely to guess you are feeling anxious, they won’t always be able to read your mind and know exactly what is bothering you.
So by expressing how you feel, everyone can give you the right amount of support. Most importantly, have a laugh about it! You are preparing for a momentous occasion but don’t let it get over-serious – it first and foremost needs to be fun!
Wedding Ideas works a lot with the Bridal Coach Michele Paradise. An ex-model herself, Michele is full of handy hints and tips for a stress-free big day. Here she talks to Wedding Ideas‘ Pippa about walking confidently, dealing with relatives before the big day and more…
Pace yourself
You can’t be on the go organising your wedding all the time. Schedule in breaks with friends and family and make sure you let your hair down. Suggest going for refreshing walks with friends, or even to your local swimming pool.
Exercising and keeping active is by far one of the best ways to relax and feel good about yourself. It’s also more fun, and easier to pace yourself, if you go with others. Alternatively, take a trip to your favourite café or go and see a film at the cinema before you become a Mr & Mrs. This way, you’ll return to your wedding preparations with energy and it will also help to control the intensity of planning.
Don’t sweat the small stuff
Try not to mind about the details on the day of the wedding. Definitely don’t sweat the small stuff. With all your planning and preparation, your big day will undoubtedly be beautiful.
A few ‘surprises’ here and there may even add to the fun. Let the celebratory feelings wash over you. Always keep in mind the bigger picture. This will help you to take control of how you feel and enjoy your wedding!
