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Dale Nichols

How to Calm Your Nerves Before Your Wedding Day: Say BYE to wedding anxiety in 10 steps


mother of groom putting on button hole

No more wedding anxiety:

Your wedding day is meant to be a joyous celebration of love and commitment. However, it's not uncommon for nerves and anxiety to creep in, potentially overshadowing the happiness you deserve to feel. Here are my top tips to help brides and grooms overcome these nerves and fully enjoy their special day. In this comprehensive guide, discover effective strategies to calm your wedding day nerves, reduce anxiety, and create beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.

The experience of wedding anxiety and stress varies greatly from person to person. For certain individuals, it may manifest right from the beginning and intensify as the wedding day draws near. Others may encounter a rollercoaster of emotions throughout the entire planning process. This anxiety can either worsen or diminish by the time the wedding day arrives. Coping with anxiety not only brings about nervousness but can also lead to feelings of depression, as these two conditions often coexist. The wedding industry generates billions of dollars annually, placing immense pressure on couples to create a flawless and memorable day. Financial concerns, body image issues, family dynamics, the desire to please others, and numerous other factors can contribute to the stress associated with weddings.


So, Let's get into those 10 steps that will help you enjoy the moments on, and leading up to your big day!

  • Educate Yourself and Raise Awareness: Understanding the common factors that contribute to wedding day nerves is crucial. Learn about the physiological and psychological aspects of anxiety. Realizing that your feelings are normal and shared by many couples can bring a sense of relief.

peaceful relaxation candle filled scene

  • Embrace Relaxation Techniques: Explore various relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, yoga and mindfulness meditation. These practices will help calm your nervous system and promote inner peace. Start incorporating these techniques into your daily routine well before the wedding day. Essential oils are also a great way to experience relaxation.

  • Visualize Your Ideal Wedding Experience: Imagination is a powerful tool. Engage in visualization exercises where you imagine your wedding day unfolding smoothly and joyfully. Picture yourself walking down the aisle with confidence, surrounded by loved ones. Creating a mental blueprint of your ideal wedding experience can reduce anxiety and increase your confidence.

  • Enhance Communication Skills: Clear and effective communication is vital on your wedding day. Learn and practice tools for expressing your needs and desires clearly to your partner and wedding party. Ensuring everyone is on the same page will minimize potential sources of stress.

caring hand holding soothing

  • Build a Support System: Identify individuals in your support system who can provide emotional assistance on your wedding day. This may include family members, friends, or a designated wedding coordinator. Having a trusted support network will significantly alleviate anxiety and provide a sense of reassurance.

  • Prioritize Self-Care and Set Boundaries: Taking care of yourself is essential in the days leading up to your wedding. Make self-care a priority by getting adequate sleep, eating nourishing meals, and engaging in activities that bring you joy. Establish boundaries with wedding-related tasks and responsibilities to manage stress effectively.

  • Rehearse and Familiarize: Arrange a rehearsal with your wedding party to familiarize yourselves with the ceremony and the venue. This practice will reduce uncertainty and build confidence. Feeling comfortable and prepared will allow you to relax and enjoy the day.

  • Incorporate Wedding Day Rituals: Consider incorporating personalized rituals into your wedding day. These can include a morning meditation, writing gratitude letters, or engaging in a calming activity before getting ready. These rituals will help ground you, center your mind, and create a serene atmosphere.

  • On-Site Support: If desired, enlist the services of a wedding therapist or counsellor who can provide on-site support on your wedding day. Having their presence can offer a sense of stability and reassurance, allowing you to focus on your partner and the celebration.

  • Schedule an Initial Consultation: If after trying these you're still super duper anxious it can't hurt to reach out to a wedding therapist well in advance of your big day. During the initial consultation, openly express your concerns, anxieties, and expectations. Sharing your thoughts will help the therapist tailor their approach to your specific needs. They can offer great emotional support, pre marriage counselling and coping strategies. Everyone get anxious for the wedding, but trust me it's all going to be okay.


nourishing breakfast smoothie bowl with strawberries

Bonus tip: Nourishing Breakfast on your big day: Fuel your body and mind with a nutritious breakfast. Opt for foods rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fats, such as fruits, whole grains, yogurt, and nuts. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to maintain optimal energy levels throughout the day. ( I've seen brides & grooms shake not with fear but because they were too nervous to eat, and their body was feeling it, so don't make that mistake. help your body help you get through that ceremony.)

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Your wedding day should be filled with love, happiness, and cherished memories. By following these steps, you can effectively calm your nerves and fully enjoy your special day. Remember, it's normal to feel a bit anxious, but with the right techniques and support, you can embrace the joy and create beautiful memories that will last a lifetime. Embrace this transformative journey and celebrate the beginning of a new chapter in your life together.


portrait of dale nichols Suffolk wedding photographer

Thank you for reading this guide on how to calm your wedding day nerves. Remember, it's going to be okay. As a professional wedding photographer, I understand the mix of excitement and anxiety that comes with planning your special day.

One last tip: consider hiring a wedding photographer early on. They can not only capture beautiful moments but also provide guidance and relieve some of the overwhelm you may be feeling. To see if my work aligns with your vision, visit my website at www.nicholsweddings.co.uk.

Breathe deeply, embrace the love that surrounds you, and trust in the magic of your wedding day. It will be filled with joy, cherished memories, and the beginning of a beautiful journey together.



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