Hello lovebirds! Your friendly Sunshine Coast celebrant here, ready to help you navigate the choppy waters of wedding planning. We all know that planning the biggest day of your life can be a bit of a rollercoaster but it doesn’t have to be scary!

I've got some fantastic tips to help you keep your cool and actually enjoy the journey to “I do!” So, pop on the kettle, grab a tim tam (or three), and let's dive into how you can become a Zen Master of wedding planning.

Mindful matrimony ~ Setting your intentions

Before you dive headfirst into a sea of checklists and cake samples, take a moment to breathe. Sit down with your partner and have a chat about what really matters to you both. Do you envision an intimate gathering, big wedding party, formal affair or a super simple relaxed do? Setting your intentions early will help you make decisions that align with your vision, saving you stress down the track.

Wedding Budget Bliss: Keeping the bottom line in check

Let's be honest, weddings can cost a pretty penny. But a Zen bride knows that a beautiful wedding doesn't have to break the bank. Start by setting a realistic budget for your Sunshine Coast wedding and stick to it like peanut butter on toast (my personal fave). Prioritise what's important to you and be willing to compromise on the rest. Remember, it's the love and laughter that make a wedding special, not the price tag.

Find your wedding day support squad and delegate!

You know that saying, “It takes a village”? Well, it certainly applies to wedding planning. Don't be afraid to call in your troops; your bridesmaids, groomsmen, family and friends. Delegate tasks based on their strengths. Maybe your bestie is a whiz with spreadsheets, your nan is a talented seamstress or your mum makes a mean cake. Letting others help not only takes the pressure off you but also makes them feel part of your special day. It’s a win win!

Self-Care: Nurture yourselves

In the whirlwind of wedding planning, it's easy to forget about yourselves. But a Zen couple knows the importance of self-care, so schedule regular date nights where wedding talk is off-limits. Take time for yourselves to go on a bush walk, visit a spa day, or just spend a quiet afternoon together doing whatever you both adore (good book or online gaming!) Remember, you're planning a marriage, not just a wedding, so nurturing your relationship is key.

Perspective is paramount: Keeping your eye on the prize

When things get hectic (and they will), take a step back and remember why you're doing this in the first place. At the end of the day, you're marrying the love of your life, surrounded by your nearest and dearest. If the napkins don't perfectly match the flowers, or if Aunt Betty ends up seated next to Uncle Bob despite the family feud, it's not the end of the world. A Zen bride knows that it's these little quirks that often make the best memories.

Bonus Tip: The “Too Hard Basket”

Here's a little secret from a seasoned celebrant ~ create a “too hard basket”. When you're faced with a decision that's doing your head in, pop it in the basket and come back to it later! Sometimes, a bit of distance can bring clarity, or the issue might even resolve itself! Or, you could just delegate.

Remember, your wedding day is just the beginning of your greatest adventure together. The planning process should be a joy, not a burden. By adopting a Zen approach, you're not only setting yourself up for a beautiful wedding day but also for a harmonious start to your married life together.

I hope you’re feeling a bit more relaxed about your wedding planning journey now. But, if you'd like to chat more about how we can create a stress-free, personalised ceremony that's true to you, I'd love to hear from you.

Click on that delightful button below and let's grab a virtual cuppa together to start planning the day of your dreams, minus the stress.

Happy Wedding Planning!

book a free 30 minute zoom call to chat about your stress-free ceremony

Sunshine Coast Wedding Vendors:

Real life couple / Preaw & Sam @peowpeoww

Venue / @sevenpeaks_farmstay

Wedding planner / @elopetosunshinecoast

Photographer / @imagesbylou

Stylist / @dreamweddingssc

Silent Disco, DJ and Special Effects / @osmicproductions

Celebrant / @sunny_coast_celebrant

Florist / @house_of_flowers_sc