How to Stay Sane While Planning a Budget Wedding

I knew planning a wedding would be a lot of work, but I didn’t quite grasp what that would mean for my daily life until the time to plan the big day arrived.  I know I’m not unique.  Between working full time, preparing to move, investing in friendships and family, planning a wedding and spending time with Mr. M, it’s easy for me to be frazzled, overwhelmed and question why elopement wasn’t more fully considered. ????

Did you read Bianca’s post about bridal blues?  I think she did a great job articulating the ups and downs brides feel throughout the wedding planning process (especially if working on a budget).  Isn’t it funny how we can be simultaneously excited and stressed?

Amidst the busyness, I want this season to be one of happiness and joy.  And here are three things that I found to help me with my focus.

How to Stay Sane While Planning a Budget Wedding

*Stay healthy.

I’m not the type of person who enjoys going to the gym (in fact, I  despise it).  So, I’m trying to make sure that I go on walks and do some pilates, yoga, etc… when I’m home. I’m also on what I call the “5 S” diet: snacks and sweets only on Saturdays, Sundays and special occasions.  Guzzling A LOT of water and getting 7+ hours of sleep is also a priority.  I’m always amazed by how much better I feel by just doing things that are good for my body.

*Volunteer.

Yes, you’re crazy busy.  Your days are likely packed with activity and without a moment to catch your breath.  How will volunteering help with sanity?  Getting out of the wedding planning (and everything else going on) world and doing something for other people offers perspective.  Take a few hours on a Saturday and go serve.  When you’re offering lunch at a homeless shelter, you’re reminded that not being able to have the ideal menu at your reception is a happy problem to have.  Volunteering and serving fosters thankfulness, and I think a thankful heart is a key component of being content and calm in any season of life.

*Focus on the Marriage, not the Wedding.

The day after Mr. M and I got engaged, we sat down and outlined what we wanted our ceremony to look like.  We talked about how to incorporate our friends, what passages from the Bible we wanted read, what songs we should sing, etc…  What a gift this has been to me.  We’re having a wedding to get married, not the other way around.  And when I start worrying about favors and flowers, I take a minute to think about how excited I am to marry Mr. M surrounded by our community and honoring our faith.

There’s no doubt about it.  Wedding planning is an exciting crazy time.  Is there anything you’re doing to ease up on some of the stress that comes with this season?