There WILL Be Stress, But You Can Manage It

Planning a wedding can be stressful but it’s important to keep on top of things, and don't let the small stuff ruin your big day.  Here are a few tips that have been shared with me by some of the brides I’ve been honored to work with to help you feel and look your best at the biggest event of your life.

Sleep:  Get all the sleep that you can.  Your hair, skin and face will all benefit from not having to fight the elements and having time to repair themselves while you rest. A bride I married while I was a pastor in Vermont told me that soothing tea blends like Chamomile or Lemon Balm can really help.

Eat well:  Not only will this keep you trim for your wedding gown, but it will reflect in the condition of your skin, a glowing healthy bride just radiates beauty. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean meats.

Drink lots of water:  This will rid your body of toxins, clearing up skin issues and adding healthy shine to your hair and nails.

Timing is everything: Of course it’s important to decide on your photographer well in advance and that you get someone who you’re sure is really interested in shooting your event and not just in pushing print or album prices.  Also, you want to line up your music as soon as possible, whether it’s a live band or a DJ.  Find out what their song lists are and if they have, or are willing to get, any favorite songs you want played.  The right officiate also goes a long way in not only how your day will go but what the memories of your special day will be.  Meet with, or at least talk to, the person you are considering.  I think the key thing here is do they make you feel comfortable and are they willing to put together a ceremony based on YOUR wishes, no matter how unusual.  I believe a wedding should be about the bride and groom - not about the minister - or the parents - or your friends.

Don’t leave all your beauty tasks to the last minute. Facial hair removal, leg waxing etc. should be done in advance to give your skin time to recover. You don’t want a red irritated skin mustache in all your wedding photos.   Brides have told me that silky, hair free legs are a must for the garter removal.  Practice with different makeup shades and techniques. Decide whether you need a bold look, or whether your look should be as natural as possible. For a daytime outdoor wedding, for example, bold colors may be a little too much. On the other hand, an indoor, artificially lighted room may call for less subtlety and a bit more oomph.  Get someone to take digital pix of you with all your different test runs, and then you can choose at your leisure.

Play Dress Up:  Practice walking in a gown or clothing strapped around you to simulate a gown. Put on similar shoes. Practice walking elegantly down a carpet between chairs...that way you will have a feel for the space you take up and the pace you feel comfortable with. Choose music to fit your pace, not pace to fit the music. Say your vows over and over until they flow. Most people panic over the amount of words they have to say, which is why I keep the lines as short as possible.  If you rehearse them, it will sail by.  It is, after all, a big show, and your are the stars. Learn your lines, practice your role. Then relax!

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