How Can I Be a Zen Bride?

Working with brides as part of The Zen Bride Workshop, I hear over and over again how much stress there is. That’s usually around planning a wedding, but many couples don’t even consider preparing for marriage. Uh oh, here comes more stress.

You and your partner (and maybe some of your community) are planning an amazing day. It should be fun and celebratory. Hopefully it honors your love. So stress is not welcome here! Let’s start with wedding planning. Check back as we look at tools for the wedding day and prepping for your lives together!

Being a ZEN BRIDE involves cultivating calmness, mindfulness, and balance throughout your wedding planning process. Here are 7 tips in order to achieve that:

1. Start with Mindful Planning
   Break down your wedding tasks into manageable steps. Prioritize what truly matters to you and your partner to avoid overwhelm. It may be helpful to figure out who is doing what and creating deadlines. I also encourage couples to limit wedding planning to 2-4 days a week. That way planning doesn’t take over your lives.

2. Set Realistic Expectations
   Accept that not everything will go perfectly. Embrace imperfections as part of the experience rather than stress about them. Make sure you know what your priorities are and if it’s helpful to have a Plan B, create one!

3. Practice Daily Relaxation Techniques
   Incorporate meditation, deep breathing, or yoga into your routine to maintain a peaceful mindset. A walk by the water or a hike in the woods may be your version of Zen. Do it!

4. Delegate and Ask for Help
   Share responsibilities with your partner, family, or a wedding planner to prevent burnout. Other people may not do a task exactly the way you do, and that is okay!

5. Limit Social Media Exposure
   Avoid comparing your wedding to others online; focus on your unique vision. Remember that we choose what we post on social media and usually it’s only the pretty stuff. Not everything is perfect. (See tip #2!)

6. Make Time for Self-Care
   Schedule breaks and activities that rejuvenate you, such as walks, reading, or time with friends. Massages, facials or mani/pedis are great here, too!

7. Embrace Gratitude
   Reflect regularly on the positive aspects of your journey and the support around you. What are you grateful for during this process? Can you celebrate even the little wins?

Adopting these strategies will help you enjoy your wedding process with calmness and joy, embodying the true spirit of a zen bride. If you need more guidance or would like to join the next Zen Bride workshop, please reach out!