Nobody wants to be a bridezilla, or a groomzilla, yet so often, the mammoth task of organising the perfect wedding day can get the better of even the most cool-headed couple.
Perhaps it’s the event being called ‘the big day’, the knowledge that all eyes will be on you, or the idea of your in-laws dissecting each aspect of your hospitality that makes you want to hide under the duvet/elope/eat a tub of ice cream (delete as appropriate!).
The tips below, compiled by wedding venue Newbury Racecourse, will help de-stress in the run up to the big day, making the countdown till you cut the cake, a piece of cake!
Create a to-do list or spreadsheet: lists help to organise all your thoughts. Assign each task with a deadline, but be sure to keep these realistic, or even generous, just in case there are any issues along the way. Use this resource to keep an eye on the budget and tick items off as you go.
Be aligned as a couple: speak to your spouse to have a clear plan as to who is responsible for each task and to establish key factors, such as the budget, individual goals and dreams for the big day, likes and dislikes, etc. This will help avoid arguments at more critical times down the line.
Involve your squad! Get your mates to help, especially your maid of honour and best man. Friends who are already married may also prove to be a fountain of stress-busting tips, or 
at least a good shoulder to lean on if things get tough.
Begin planning in good time: start planning a year or more in advance. It can often be a surprise just how many elements there are to arrange, and how long they can take to finalise.
Book key elements first: book the venue, catering, registrar or church first. Everything else will follow.
Find out availability of your VIPs before reserving dates: make sure the people you absolutely want to be there can make your proposed date before you announce it at large. This is especially important if you have relatives flying in from overseas.
Get your invites out early: get the date reserved in your guest’s diaries and get RSVPs back so you know numbers for catering.
Take time out: if it all seems to be getting a bit much, take some time out to do something you enjoy. It might be hitting the gym, pampering yourself, hanging with friends or meditating. Step away from screens and let your mind focus on something non-wedding related for a while.
Think positively: don’t let yourself be defeated by tasks that seem daunting - view them as challenges you can overcome. Some people find repeating a positive thought to themselves each day really helps with boosting their mood and prepare them for whatever the day may throw at them.
Enjoy the process! Make sure the process is as fun as it can be. Carve out regular intervals to think about the day and plan all the elements, remembering to celebrate all the items along the way.
Feeling more serene? We thought so. Put these tips into practice to make your wedding planning a walk in the park, before you walk down the aisle.
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