Planning a wedding can be extremely stressful, exciting and demanding, and it takes a very focused individual to avoid becoming what’s commonly known as a ‘bridezilla.’  Taking care of every last detail of the big day – on a strict timescale and budget – is one of the hardest things a woman will have to do in her lifetime.  However, there is no excuse for fighting with your fiancé, parents or bridesmaids about whether the starter at the wedding breakfast should be hot or cold.  Follow these 5 simple steps for ensuring you stay calm and dignified throughout the planning period.

Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff

Some of the biggest disagreements you will have between other members of the bridal party are over really silly things.  It is not the be all and end all of the wedding if the cake has 2 tiers or 3, or if there are an odd number of bridesmaids and groomsmen.  By all means you only plan to tie the knot once, so make sure you do it your way; but don’t stress over the tiny details.

Stay on Budget

To avoid years worth or fights and arguments, it is critical that you stay on your agreed budget.  It is very easy to get carried away with your wedding day, especially if you attend other weddings which are more extravagant than you can afford.  Just remember why you are getting married – it’s just for you and your fiancé – not for the sake of anybody else.  There is plenty of inspiration online on how to be a thrifty bride and keep costs down; make sure you also do your research on the suppliers and get the best value for money.  Wedding rings, cakes, dresses and transport are all competitively priced so make sure you find the cheapest option in all areas.

Don’t be a Diva

In the run up to the wedding, you will want to get all your girlfriends together a few times to help with the wedding planning and of course, the hen party! Then as the big day gets nearer, you may ask for their help in making the invitations, attending dress fittings and bridal fairs, and before you know it their life revolves around you.  Don’t be a diva and demand everybody’s attention for the whole year – it will lead to resentment within your friend circle and possibly your family.

Don’t Forget About your Fiance

Most brides-to-be are guilty of the slur “my wedding…” rather than “our wedding.”  Women get carried away with the planning and put their organisation skills to good use, but not all fiancés enjoy taking a back seat.  It’s their wedding too, so never make a big decision about the wedding without him.  Also as the wedding gets closer and your planning duties and appointments take up more time, don’t forget to arrange date nights for just the two of you before you’re a married couple.

Don’t Forget your Parents

Parents and in-laws can be a bit of a nightmare during the wedding planning process, as they can be very vocal about your decisions, budget, guestlist etc.  Just remember that they have your best interests at heart, and they just want to be a part of the process before, in their heads, they lose you forever.  Watching a daughter get married and leave the family can be a very emotional time for parents, so involve them in the planning as much as you can.