A stress-free wedding day might sound too good to be true, but with some intentional planning and a relaxed mindset, it’s absolutely achievable!
Here are some easy, real-life tips to keep you relaxed and totally in the moment so you can fully enjoy the day with the people you love.
1. Set a Loose Timeline (and Don’t Sweat It if It’s Not Perfect)
- Start by creating a schedule that covers the major moments—like when to start hair and makeup, the ceremony time, and the start of the reception.
- Add a little buffer time between activities, just in case something runs long. Then, share it with the wedding party and vendors. The best part? Once the day starts, you don’t need to think about it again—just let the timeline do its thing! Plenty of ready made wedding planners are available for you on Canva.
2. Lean on Your People
You don’t need to manage every little detail on your wedding day! If you have a wedding coordinator or day-of planner, awesome! Let them take over. If not, pick a few friends or family members you trust and ask them to be your go-to helpers. For example, maybe your best friend can be in charge of handling questions or making sure everyone’s where they need to be. You’ll feel so much better knowing everything isn’t on your shoulders.
3. Enjoy the Little Moments
- Start the Day Calmly: Plan for a few peaceful moments in the morning, whether it’s with a cup of coffee, a prayer, a short meditation or a deep breath. Starting your day calmly sets the tone for everything else.
- Pause to Take It All In: Regardless all the excitement, take a few moments throughout the day to step back, look around, and enjoy the atmosphere, people, and setting.
- Have a Few Quiet Moments with Your Partner: Schedule a short break or a first look just for the two of you. This is an excellent opportunity to connect, feel grounded, and enjoy the happiness of being together.
4. Pack a Mini Emergency Kit (Trust Me!)
- A tiny bag with a few essentials like bobby pins, lipstick, stain remover, and a granola bar can be a lifesaver. It doesn’t have to be over the top—just pack a few basics so you’re ready for any minor mishaps. Having a snack and water on hand is also a great idea; you spend time and energy taking photos, sometimes meals get delayed, and a quick snack can keep your energy up.
- If you're planning a wedding photoshoot somewhere with unpredictable weather, like in Calgary, remember to bring a jacket or a shawl to keep warm and comfortable. And if you're in Vancouver, consider packing an umbrella; it's practical and can add a charming, romantic touch to your photos!
5. Get Ready with People Who Keep You Calm
- Surround Yourself with Positive Energy: Choose a few close friends or family members who help you feel relaxed and happy. Having calm, supportive people around while getting ready can make a huge difference.
- Play Relaxing or Fun Music: A playlist with your favourite tunes can set a happy, relaxing vibe and keep everyone’s spirits high as you prepare.
6. Let Go of the Small Stuff
- Remember, things don’t have to be perfect. If something tiny doesn’t go as planned, it’s totally okay—most people won’t even notice!
- Focus on the big picture: you’re getting married to the person you love, and that’s really what matters. So if your flowers aren’t exactly the right shade or if it rains during your photos, just roll with it and have fun with the moment.
7. Say Goodbye in a Way that Feels Right for You
The end of the night can be as simple or as grand as you want! Maybe you want a big, sparkler send-off with your guests, or maybe you’d rather wave them good-bye in a simple manner. Either way, plan it so you can end the night feeling relaxed and happy. And if you’re heading to a hotel or back home, set it up with some cozy blankets and snacks for a relaxed wind-down—so nice after a big, emotional day.
Final Thoughts
Your wedding day is a celebration of love, and letting go of stress helps you savor every moment. It is about you and not about making your parents, relatives or guests happy. By preparing in advance, delegating to trusted help, and keeping a positive mindset, you can truly make your wedding day a joyful, stress-free experience. Embrace the unexpected, stay present, and remember what the day is truly about: celebrating your love and the beginning of a new life together.