Congratulations to the many couples that became engaged over the holidays. I know you are excited about planning for one of the most memorable events in your life. While planning for your wedding can be fun and exciting, it can also be stressful. Remember that no matter how crazy things get take time to relax and reenergize yourself. Once you are feeling refreshed you can regroup and get back to enjoying planning for your wedding again.

This advice may sound trivial, but I have been there. I remember the havoc it created on my body when I allowed myself to get stressed out. I’m ashamed to admit it, but I was so stressed while planning for my wedding that my body began to feel like someone had beaten me. The stress continued to build up so much in my back and shoulders that it eventually moved into my arm and leg causing them to go numb.

Looking back I’m shocked I let all the details of planning for my wedding and honeymoon turn into such a stressful situation. Ladies don’t let the stress get to you as it did me. Yes, there are many important details that need to be taken care of such as choosing a theme, reserving a location, booking vendors, picking out your dress, and selecting your wedding party, but tackle each task one at a time instead of trying to do everything all at once. I did it that way and soon became overwhelmed.

Once you are finished with the bigger details of your wedding, take a deep breathe, smile, and congratulate yourself. You have accomplished a lot so take a small break from thinking about your wedding. This will allow you to relax and experience the excitement, joy, and fun of being engaged to the man you love. It is a special period in your life so make sure you take time to enjoy it.

After you have refreshed yourself a bit, make a list of the smaller details that you will need to help personalize your wedding. Many items such as invitations, wedding favors, bridal party gifts, decorations, guest books, toasting flutes, and gift bags for out of town can be purchased closer to your big day. While you want to give yourself plenty of time to order everything, especially during the busy wedding and holiday seasons, these items can be ordered 4 to 8 weeks before your wedding.

Remember this a very special time in your life so enjoy it to the fullest!