Pre-wedding jitters are a common phenomenon. The stress and worry that comes with planning a wedding often leaves brides-to-be stressed, and this can make it difficult to focus on your future spouse and your relationship.
“I am about 3 weeks away from my wedding and I am nervous as hell,” writes Reddit user 50ShadesofCray on the r/weddings message board. “I love my fiance and I have never had any second thoughts about marriage until now. I keep having these fears that I’m too young, or that it won’t work out for us. Is this normal?”
The good news is that these mixed feelings of fear, worry, and stress are what’s commonly referred to as pre-wedding jitters. However, it’s important to not let these feelings overshadow the joy and love that surround your union. Try to differentiate between stressing over the wedding, and having real questions about your specific relationship. If you have genuine concerns about your relationship, it’s best to speak to a counselor.
But if you feel strong and confident about your soon-to-be-spouse, then we have ten expert tips to help you conquer pre-wedding jitters, manage stress, and truly savor every moment of your special day.
Communicate With Your Partner
Your partner should be your biggest support system during this journey. Set aside time to connect with them on a deeper level. Take the time to talk about your shared dreams, hopes, and fears.
Sharing your anxieties and listening to your partner’s perspective can strengthen your bond, reminding you both of the reasons you’re embarking on this journey together.
Practice Mindfulness
Amidst the whirlwind of wedding planning, taking moments of mindfulness can provide a soothing escape. Practice deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga to center yourself. These techniques can help reduce anxiety and create a sense of calm, allowing you to fully enjoy the process leading up to your wedding.
If these kinds of practices aren’t really your thing, then ask yourself what kinds of calming and comfortable activities you can use to ground yourself. For some people, it might be baking bread. For others, it might be an hour or two or Stardew Valley. Find the quiet time you need to put your mind and your nerves at ease.
Lean On Your Tribe
Your bridesmaids, family, and friends are there for you through thick and thin. Don’t hesitate to share your feelings with them; they’re eager to lend an empathetic ear and offer words of encouragement. A girls’ night in or a fun day out can be the perfect way to relax, laugh, and create lasting memories before you say “I do.”
And speaking of your bridesmaids, picking out bridesmaids dresses together can also be an activity that can bring you closer together. For the widest selection of colors, sizes, and silhouettes available, we highly recommend Bella Bridesmaids. They have dresses that are perfect for any body type, and also offer alterations for the perfect fit.
Lighten Your Load
The extensive wedding to-do list can be overwhelming. Avoid burnout by delegating tasks to trusted friends, family members, and your bridal party. Prioritize your tasks and tackle them one by one.
Remember, it’s okay to ask for help – your loved ones will be more than happy to contribute and alleviate some of your stress. However, if their lives are too busy or hectic to take on any more work, don’t take it personally.
Take Time For Self-Care
Take time for self-care to rejuvenate your body and mind. Indulge in spa days, massages, or simply enjoying a relaxing bath. These rituals can help reduce tension and promote a positive mindset. Remember, taking care of yourself is an essential part of feeling confident and radiant on your wedding day.
Don’t Neglect Your Health
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can significantly impact your emotional well-being. Engage in regular exercise, fuel your body with nutritious foods, and prioritize a good night’s sleep. It’s tempting to stay up late taking care of last-minute planning, or to neglect your exercise routine in the name of squeezing more hours out of the day – but it’s not worth it.
Physical well-being goes hand in hand with mental clarity, helping you manage stress and stay present in the moment.
Embrace the Imperfections
No wedding is entirely free from surprises or imperfections. Even the most beautiful, Pinterest-perfect weddings are not immune to unexpected setbacks.
Instead of striving for an unrealistically flawless day, embrace the unique moments that unfold. Whether it’s an unexpected rain shower or a last-minute change in plans, remember that these unpredictable moments often lead to the most cherished memories.
Conclusion
As you stand on the cusp of a new chapter in your life, remember that pre-wedding jitters are a natural part of the process. Some of the best and most memorable weddings are ones that didn’t go exactly as planned. This isn’t a sign that the marriage is doomed to failure – that’s just life. And that’s a beautiful thing.
