Most couples have spent upwards of twelve months arranging the wedding. That’s a while. It feels like all roads lead back to the upcoming nuptials and planning out the details. Much time and money is spent. So, it’s understandable that we become somewhat attached to the end result. The thing is, couples who end up enjoying their weddings are the people that are able to let go of things to a point – to roll with whatever may develop. Those who can do this and who can choose good helpers can actually enjoy their own wedding. A novel idea, I know. And while men have become increasingly involved in the process, it is still the Bride who shoulders the majority of the expectations. So, generally speaking, the Bride’s outlook and style have a greater impact on the day than anything else. Ergo, ‘Happy Bride, Happy Day’. A calm Bride, which often results in a chilled out Groom, results in a more enjoyable day, and better wedding photography.
But, depending on the people involved, this is easier said than done. That includes the couple, the Family members and the Vendors. Still, the wedding day is mostly about the Bride.
First to the laid-back Bride. You have a real advantage. That is because something will definitely go wrong – which will most likely not be anything remotely major. Maybe the flowers aren’t ‘precisely’ what you wanted. Maybe there isn’t a place card for one of your guests. Maybe your dress rubbed against something and there is a minor stain. Maybe one of your always irritating family members is, not surprisingly, being irritating. Maybe after five sunny days in a row, it’s pouring rain. And so on… No worries, mate. After all, you’re just elated because you adore your soon-to-be-hubby soooo much! So, you take it all in stride and revel in your special day. And the wedding pictures will show it
For the volatile lady, this could be a very challenging day. To be sure you’ll want to have a happy and easy day. Alas, it doesn’t take much to uncenter you. While the following tips apply to all couples, they may be vital for the overly sensitive Bride:
- Select a trusted person to resolve snags, preferably your Matron of Honor. She will be your point person who will deal with issues as they happen, only letting you know if it’s a major decision.
- Wrap up all wedding prep a week before the day so you can really appreciate the build-up.
- Visualize ahead of time. Knowing it’s going to be a stressful day, visualize ahead of time to center yourself.
- Try to identify worries and irritation within yourself as early as possible so it doesn’t intensify and develop into something much worse. In short, let it go.
- That thing you are so worked up about… Most likely your guests won’t notice or care – unless you bring attention to it. The vast majority of your guests are there for you.
- Family Intrigue. You both know who in your families bring out the worst in you (nobody does that quite like family). The great thing here is that if there is a certain someone who just gets your goat, you can see it coming from miles away. It’s a shame to allow this person to ruin things for you. Own your own feelings and responses.
- Be open to a change of plans. Crappy day? Be receptive to your photographer’s suggestions because they should be doing their utmost to capture good couple shots (arguably the most important pictures). In short, be flexible. Surprisingly, an alternative plan actually ends up being more interesting than the original.
Hey, what about the Groom? Suffice to say, he can also make things difficult, but generally speaking, he is usually trying hard to keep his Bride content – if he’s smart anyway. The wedding day is an intensified practice session for marriage. ‘Happy Bride, Happy Day’ flows nicely into both ‘Happy Wife, Happy Life’ and sets the stage for creative wedding photography.
