We’ve all encountered her…on TV if not in real life. The Bridezilla. She acts like a screaming child in the throws of a temper tantrum, on a day that is supposed to be a celebration! There’s no way that she could possibly enjoy it!
Here are some ways to avoid the B-word:
- You need a plan. And a backup plan. And a backup to the backup plan. That way, if anything goes wrong, you know what you’re going to do. Make sure that all of your vendors are absolutely clear on the details of your day, and that they are spelled out in your contract. Make confirmation phone calls and emails as your wedding day approaches, so that nothing falls through the cracks. Then contact all of your talented friends and put them on standby “just in case.”
- You need to understand that it’s not “if anything goes wrong” but “when something goes wrong.” It’s true that something always goes wrong at a wedding, but it’s also true that most mishaps become funnier and funnier with time. So skip ahead to the funny part! Laugh and go on about your day.
- Put someone in charge. This person should not be YOU. Usually not in the wedding party or immediate family, either. A trusted aunt or friend with some organizational skills and a fairly commanding presence is a great choice. Even if you do EVERYTHING (make your own flowers, cater everything yourself, sew your dress), you’ll want someone to take over from the rehearsal forward (so you can get some sleep!).
- Consider the people around you. In most cases, they only want what’s best for your special day. Whatever they’re doing to tap dance on your last nerve is likely unintentional. If you have someone who is truly annoying the snot out of you, enlist someone from your bridal party or close circle of friends to run interference for you. If you must deal with that person, take a deep breath and say, “thank you, but we’ve decided to ____________.”
- By the same token, surround yourself with those you love and who truly care about you. Do not feel obligated to include people in your wedding party. Period. If asking them to participate is not heart-felt, question why you want them to do so in the first place. If you decide to include someone who is unreliable, account for that as you plan. Expect a late arrival…or no arrival. Focus on those who choose to help you celebrate.
- Don’t sweat the small stuff. You’ve heard it before, but it really holds true. What’s important here? Your relationship. If rain threatens, just remember that you’re weathering your first storm together. If some of the wedding details are wrong, most likely no one will notice. (See numbers 1 and 2.)
- Once you’ve planned every minute and stressed out about every color, flavor and musical selection, consider yourself simply a participant. Select someone to take care of the last-minute details so you don’t have to. (See number 3.) Get a massage, manicure, professional make-up and hair. Enjoy everyone making a fuss over you. Look for moments to slow down time. Savor each moment, spending time with loved ones that you don’t see every day, and with your new husband as you begin this new chapter of your life together.
It’s not unusual for things to go wrong; that’s life. The key is to handle it with grace and dignity. Focus on the positives, and you’ll truly have a day to remember!
Do you have any other tips on how to avoid becoming a Bridezilla? Post a comment!
Bye for now!
Patty
