📋 Get the Wedding Quick Start Guide!

How to Stay Sane While Planning a Budget Wedding

When you shop via links on our site, we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. Learn more.

Feeling stressed out? Check out these three tips to help brides stay sane while planning a wedding on a budget.

Jessica Bishop Headshot

If you’re a bride-to-be, maybe you can relate to feeling like planning a wedding has proven to be more demanding than you initially anticipated. Balancing a full-time job, preparing for a move, nurturing relationships, and investing time in wedding arrangements, all while attempting to make time to cherish moments with your soon-to-be spouse– can we all agree it’s just A LOT?

Juggling all these various aspects of life can leave you feeling a bit overwhelmed and questioning if just eloping was a missed opportunity. Have you experienced the bridal blues too? It’s the rollercoaster of emotions that brides often go through during the wedding planning process, especially when working within a budget.

It’s incredible how we can simultaneously feel excitement and stress– we contain multitudes! Amidst the busyness, let’s try to focus on finding happiness and joy in this season. Here are three tips to help you stay sane while planning a wedding on a budget:

1. Prioritize your health:

While going to the gym may not be your thing, incorporating physical activity into your routine can still make a difference. Consider going for walks, practicing pilates or yoga at home, or engaging in other forms of exercise that you enjoy. Additionally, aim to follow a balanced diet and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Getting enough sleep is also crucial for maintaining your well-being.

2. Give back through volunteering:

Amidst the busyness of wedding planning, taking time to volunteer can provide a fresh perspective. By serving others, you’ll gain a sense of gratitude and appreciation for what truly matters. Spend a few hours on a weekend to help those in need, and you’ll be reminded that the challenges you face during wedding planning are relatively small in the grand scheme of things. The holiday season is a great time to find ways to give back, but I suggest finding ways to do this all year long to keep yourself grounded in gratitude and service.

3. Focus on the marriage, not just the wedding:

Remember that your wedding day is about the celebration of your love and commitment to each other. Take a step back and discuss what elements are most important to you as a couple. Consider incorporating meaningful rituals, readings, or songs into your ceremony that reflect your values and beliefs. By focusing on the significance of the marriage itself, you can alleviate stress and find joy in the process.

4. Delegate Tasks:

You don’t have to do everything yourself. Delegate tasks to your wedding party, family, or even a professional wedding planner if it’s within your budget. This will reduce your workload and allow you to enjoy the process more. It’s important to remember that you don’t have to do everything perfectly – the most important thing is that you and your partner are happy and present on your special day.

5. Create a Realistic Budget:

Be honest about what you can afford. This prevents you from overspending and feeling stressed about finances. Prioritize what’s important to you, and adjust your budget accordingly. This may mean cutting back on expenses in certain areas, but remember that a beautiful wedding does not have to break the bank. With some creativity and resourcefulness, you can still have a memorable and meaningful wedding without spending an exorbitant amount of money.

6. Take Breaks to Connect:

Regularly carve out time to relax and unwind. This could be by having a date night, watching a movie, reading a book, or going for a walk. Taking time away from wedding planning ensures that you won’t burn out and will keep the process enjoyable. It’s essential to prioritize self-care and give yourself a break from the stress of wedding planning.

7. Practice Mindfulness:

By staying present and mindful, you can reduce feelings of overwhelm and stress. Practice mindfulness through meditation, or simply by taking a few moments each day to focus on your breath and clear your mind. Being present in the moment can also help you appreciate and savor the special moments leading up to your wedding.

8. Remember to Celebrate:

Every little win in the wedding planning process is a victory, so remember to celebrate them! Whether it’s finding the perfect venue or finally deciding on the guest list, take a moment to appreciate these accomplishments. Celebrating these small successes can boost your morale and keep you motivated to continue with the planning process.

Stay the Course, You Got This!

Planning a wedding on a budget can be exciting but also challenging. By prioritizing your well-being, giving back, and keeping the focus on your relationship, you can navigate the planning process with more ease and create a memorable celebration of love.


Jessica Bishop Headshot

Jessica Bishop is the founder of TheBudgetSavvyBride.com, and has worked in various areas and roles within the wedding industry since 2007. She is the author of the best-selling book,The Budget-Savvy Wedding Planner & Organizer and also hosts The Bouquet Toss Wedding Planning Podcast. Jessica's expert wedding advice and savvy savings tips have been featured by Good Morning America, COSMOPOLITAN, Glamour, and more.