When your significant other pops the question, the magic can quickly subside when you’re suddenly deep in the throes of planning the most important day of your life. While stress is inevitable, there is a way to combat it and reclaim the joy of curating your dream wedding.

At Wedded Wonderland, we’ve encountered hundreds of real stories through which we continuously learn about the top problems each bride experiences–and the many ways to break through them. We’re glad to share them with you below so that you can have a seamless, positive bridal journey as you count down to the aisle:

1. Managing other people’s expectations

Weddings are momentous not just for the couple but also for family and friends, leading some to provide unsolicited advice or opinions on everything. These things could include dress choices, venue options, and table arrangements. While having various inputs can be useful for decision-making, this can be too stressful for brides who might feel that their preferences are overshadowed.

The key to preventing this backseat driver situation is to set boundaries from the beginning and to have effective communication. It should be made clear to everyone in your bridal party (family, bridesmaids, other friends) that everyone’s advice is welcome but you call the shots at the end of the day.

The last thing that every bride wants is for family feuds or friend drama to arise from wedding planning. Avoid communication issues by having streamlined channels for sharing information, such as a dedicated group chat so that everyone gets updated instantaneously. For initiatives that require shared resources (like the bachelorette party or bridesmaid dresses), ensure that everyone’s financial thresholds are considered by having a voting system.

2. Finding the right service providers and vendors

With thousands of wedding vendors in the industry, each offering subtle differences, choosing the right ones can feel impossible. On top of that, brides need to balance budget, personal style, and values while making their selections. While the quickest way to bypass it is by hiring a planner, a DIY wedding is still manageable.

Before diving into research, clarify your wedding vision. Identifying your non-negotiables will help narrow your options and allocate your budget wisely. For example, if live music is a must-have, you can keep the decor minimal and choose a venue that naturally complements your theme.

Speaking of venues, many wedding venues have a preferred vendor list that includes caterers, florists, and sound technicians—saving you time and effort in searching for providers independently. Some venues bundle these services into packages, while others allow you to choose your vendors. Beyond browsing websites, read reviews and testimonials. Take it a step further by reaching out to vendors and requesting quotations, portfolios, and real-life samples of their work. For instance, ask a makeup artist for raw, unedited photos of previous clients to gauge their true skill level.

Another important quality to nabbing the perfect providers is knowing what you want and negotiating well. While ready-made packages might seem convenient, don’t be afraid to ask for customized options that better fit your budget and style. Open communication with vendors can lead to better deals and personalized service.

3. Juggling wedding work with life

The sheer weight of putting together a wedding shouldn’t prevent you from enjoying other aspects of your life. Remember, it should be a pleasurable experience–not a burden.

Managing stress while staying on track can be done by delegating tasks to your bridal party. For instance, a few friends can oversee RSVP tracking, while others can manage vendor communications. This not only lightens your load but also allows loved ones to contribute meaningfully.

Prevent burnout by designating days or times for wedding planning. This does not have to be a boardroom type of meeting, either. Lighten up the mood by doing it at a cafe with your partner, or over brunch with your bridal party. A casual setting makes it enjoyable for all and eases the stress.

Break big goals into manageable steps. Instead of simply listing “Book venue” on your to-do list, break it down into actionable items like “Request quotes,” “Schedule site visits,” and “Compare packages.” Using a shared digital planner keeps everyone on the same page and minimizes confusion.

Prioritize your well-being as a couple, protect relationships

Brides often feel stressed due to the pressure for perfection. However, what matters is that the couple’s shared vision is respected and achieved. Keep relationships in check through clear communication and effective delegation of tasks. Most importantly, approach every step with joy and gratitude. When things get too rough, take some time off–the same goes for your loved ones.

Remember, weddings are an opportunity to connect, feel inspired, and spread love! For more expert wedding advice, stay tuned to Wedded Wonderland.