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Image by Tealily Photography via Natalie and Dan’s Sydney Island Wedding

Planning your wedding is such a happy and exciting time but it can also be stressful and feel overwhelming. This month I thought I’d reflect on what advice I can offer to those starting out…

Don’t try to please everyone
It’s your wedding day so make it the wedding of your dreams. The day is about the two of you. Never lose sight of that.

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Image by Kerryn Lee Photography via Julia and Julian’s ‘Best Day Ever’ Buttercup Wedding

Think carefully about your bridal party
Don’t choose people out of obligation. You want your most valued people to be standing beside you – the ones you know will always be there for you post-wedding, during all of life’s ups and downs.

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Image by Brown Paper Parcel Photography via Anna and Murray’s Rustic Mill Wedding

Accept offers of help
Delegate – to your bridal party, to your parents, to siblings, to cousins, to future in-laws, to friends. Be clear about your vision and be thankful for their help.

Sweat the small stuff
It’s OK to devote time to making decisions on all the little details. They will make a big difference on your wedding day.

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Image by Bobby Clark from Bobby & Tide via Prue & Mat’s Outdoor Trentham Wedding

Don’t lose sight of your budget
Set a budget and do your best to stick to it. It’ll mean more money for a fabulous honeymoon!

Take time out
Have a weekly date night where wedding talk is banned. Talking your wedding 24/7 will drive you both crazy.

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Image by The Robertsons via Corinna & Dylan’s Modern Romantic Canberra Wedding

Savour all the sweet and silly moments
Yes, it can be stressful, but planning your wedding should also be a lot of fun – enjoy it!

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Image by Petal Photography via Cecily and Matthew’s Intimate Yacht Club Wedding

You may experience post-wedding blues
After all the intense planning topped off by one of the happiest days of your lives, you may feel a little lost and low in the weeks and months after your wedding. What you’re feeling is normal. Remind yourselves: even though your big day is done and dusted, there’s still so much to look forward to in your married life together.

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Image by Holly Prins via Emma and David’s Bohemian Chic Country Wedding

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Ms Chinoiserie Says: Love the idea of scheduling a weekly date night away from wedding planning; it’s important not to  get too caught up in it!

About Melissa Cornwall Marriage Celebrant: I love weddings and I love what I do. As a celebrant, my job is getting to know couples and crafting memorable marriage ceremonies – and that’s always such a pleasure and privilege.