Planning a wedding can be a thrilling journey, filled with excitement, love, and, let’s face it, a dash of stress. But as you gear up for your big day, it’s essential to keep calm, avoid stress, and stay healthy—because nobody wants to be the one who faints at the altar or forgets the rings in a fit of pre-wedding jitters! So, as The Celebrant in the Room, let me share some light-hearted yet practical tips to help you glide down the aisle with grace and ease.

First things first, embrace the chaos. Yes, you heard me right! Weddings, like life, are full of unexpected twists and turns. Whether it’s a last-minute change in the weather, your favourite flowers being out of season, or Aunt Mildred insisting on singing at the reception, remember that no wedding is perfect. And that’s ok. Instead of letting the little things wind you up, take a deep breath, have a laugh, and remind yourself that these will be the stories you tell for years to come. After all, who needs perfection when you can have personality?

Speaking of breathing, don’t forget to do it! I know it sounds obvious, but deep breathing can be your best friend in the lead-up to the big day. When you feel the stress starting to creep in—whether it’s over choosing the right wedding venue or making sure the guest list hasn’t ballooned into something resembling a small music festival—take a few minutes to pause. Breathe in deeply through your nose, hold for a moment, and then exhale slowly. It’s a simple way to keep calm and carry on.

Now, let’s talk about self-care, because looking after yourself isn’t just for after the wedding—it’s for right now. Treat yourself to a massage, take a long bath, or go for a walk in the countryside. A little ‘me time’ is crucial when you’re navigating wedding outfits, meeting with suppliers, and choosing between a string quartet or a DJ. And if you’re wondering whether to have that extra slice of cake at your tasting session—go on, embrace it! 

Keep in mind that staying active is key to keeping stress at bay. Whether it’s yoga, a morning jog, or simply dancing around your living room to your first dance song, moving your body can help clear your mind and boost your mood. Plus, it’s a great way to try out those dance moves before you’re showcasing them on the big day. Remember, you want to feel like Fred Astaire, not like you’ve got two left feet.

And let’s not forget about your mental health. It’s easy to get caught up in the details—whether you’re fretting about finding the perfect wedding dress or wondering if the cake toppers really matter—but don’t let wedding planning take over your life. Make time for your partner, friends, and family, and talk about things other than the wedding. You don’t want to emerge from this experience with nothing left to chat about!

As the big day approaches, delegate where you can. This is the perfect time to rope in your bridesmaids, groomsmen, or that particularly organised friend who’s been itching to help. Whether it’s finalising the seating arrangements or picking up the wedding favours, let others take some of the weight off your shoulders. It’s not just your day, it’s their day to celebrate with you, so let them embrace their inner wedding planner.

On the day itself, try to live in the moment. It’s easy to get caught up in worrying about whether everything is going according to plan, but don’t forget why you’re there. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for, the day you say ‘I do’ to the love of your life. So, if the best man’s speech goes a bit rogue or if there’s a minor hiccup with the catering, let it slide. Trust me, no one will remember these things. What they will remember is the joy, the love, and the fact that you were beaming from ear to ear.

Lastly, embrace the unpredictability of it all. Weddings are wonderful because they’re full of surprises—some planned, some not so much. But in the end, it’s these quirks that make your day unique. So, whether it’s a quick rain shower or the flower girl deciding she’s had enough halfway down the aisle, just go with it. After all, you’re not just planning a wedding—you’re creating memories that will last a lifetime.

So, as The Celebrant in the Room, I say embrace every moment. Stay calm, stay healthy, and most importantly, enjoy the ride. Because no matter what happens, at the end of the day, you’ll be married to your favourite person in the world—and that’s what truly matters.