Sunday, August 9, 2009

Advice for Brides-To-Be, Part I

It's official -- you are engaged! You cannot wait to share this time-honored tradition with family and friends! You are exhilarated, as you are about to begin planning for that wedding that you have been dreaming about since you were a little girl. As you begin the journey of planning your wedding, you will need to outline your wedding priorities and define your style; there are so many things to consider! However, it is very important that you do not forget to take some time for yourself. These are just a few of the tips I would like to share today... check back soon for Part II!

1. Relax
Nurture yourself, meditate, exercise or do some yoga, get plenty of sleep, write a journal, read, pray, light some aromatherapy candles and soak in the tub. Take a deep breath and take a moment to absorb and appreciate the beauty around you -- this is your time!

2. Pamper Yourself
Join a spa or book visits for a massage and facial. Don't wait until the week before your wedding to get a trial manicure, pedicure, or hairstyle. Take the opportunity to visit your hairstylist early to try out several different styles for the wedding day. Visit a makeup artist and formulate your wedding day look.

3. Maintain a Balanced Diet
Many brides turn to crash diets for pre-wedding weight loss, but before you venture down that path, start eating right and exercising and you will see the pounds melt away without turning to unhealthy habits. Drink plenty of water, cut back on caffeine, and do not start any weight loss programs without consulting your primary care physician.

4. Focus on Your Health
Schedule appointments with your doctor, dentist, dermatologist, or any other specialist you may need.

5. Communicate With Your Fiancee
Stay connected! Spend quality time together -- play a board game, have nice dinners out or at home, watch movies, take walks, or have a spa day together (many spas offer couple sessions). Set aside some time to discuss your wedding plans throughout the engagement and planning period. Communicate often, and effectively!

6. Connect With Those Around You
Embrace and include your closest family and friends during the wedding planning process. This is the best time to learn who will be willing to help you plan, as well as a good time to relate what you expect of them on your wedding day (i.e. be a member of the wedding party, etc).

7. Document It All!
Don't wait until the wedding day to take pictures. You should capture your wedding journey! A camera is a must-have from the engagement, through the planning process, into the wedding day, and during the honeymoon.

Stay positive, stay focused, live, love and laugh... and don't forget to check back next time for more detailed tips regarding the planning process itself!

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