Well, 2020 has been quite a hectic year thus far (to say the least)! If the pandemic wasn’t enough to make us feel anxious and overwhelmed, try planning a wedding on top of it! It’s been an emotional, never-ending rollercoaster ride that many of us experienced this year. All of the uncertainty and fear of the unknown resulted in a whirlwind of worry, stress and anxiety. I know this is easier said than done, but DO NOT let the fear of the unknown (or anything out of your control) take away from what is said to be the best day of your life! 

Let’s focus our energy on the big day, without the notion of negative vibes. Here are some tips for my fellow COVID brides, may we still have the best day of our lives!

1. Reevaluate your original plan: If you’re on the fence about postponing, let me tell you from personal experience that it will feel so relieving when it’s all said and done! Reach out to your venue ASAP if you are considering rescheduling. Ask your event coordinator if you can place a soft-hold on a “Plan B” date. Having the peace of mind with this option will help alleviate stress surrounding the pandemic. If you receive a Plan B date, reach out to your vendors right away to communicate the possible date. The easiest way to do this is to create an email template, and change the recipient name for each vendor. You will feel so relieved after taking this step, I promise!
2. If you decide to postpone, celebrate your OG wedding date: There is nothing worse than having nothing planned for your OG date, and spending the day crying, stress eating, or consuming yourself with negativity. Whether you’re considering having a “minimony” or thinking of something special to do with your fiance, I highly recommend planning a day filled with activities or a weekend trip where you can celebrate your OG date. Travel restrictions may be an issue, so try to plan something within close driving distance. Be sure to check out-of-state guidelines under CDC to ensure that the city/state you are traveling to will have additional restrictions. 
3. Trust your gut: If you’re questioning something that you previously had planned or envisioned for your big day, change it! Trust your gut if something does not feel right for you. Are you questioning the bridal dress that you picked? There are options to sell purchased gowns online. Thinking of switching up your wedding theme? There are a ton of options on Pinterest to help you decide. This is your day, so make it about you and go with it!
4. Don’t dwell on the opinions of others: Well, this goes for ALL things bridal and non-bridal, and should be considered as a daily part of our lives. Even if someone means well, their unsolicited opinions can cause stress and anxiety. Please, do not allow yourself to cave in and feel guilty because you’re not doing something that others want you to do. After all, opinions of others do not matter, especially in this scenario!
5. It’s OK to downsize: If you’re considering having a minimony or microwedding, it is totally acceptable to consider downsizing. Do not allow yourself to feel pressured or guilty for this. There are options to consider when downsizing, including Zoom or other virtual platforms. It is definitely appropriate to reconsider your original guest list, and decide if it would be best to downsize. Those that matter don’t mind, and those that mind don’t matter. 
6. Don’t feel pressured to add more plans if it’s not what you want: If you feel pressured by others to have a minimony to replace your original date, but you don’t want to dive deeper into planning and finances, then don’t do it. This correlates with the opinions of others, but sometimes we allow ourselves to feel the “what ifs.” Be happy for those who are choosing to incorporate a minimony, even if it’s not your cup of tea. You will get to have your big day exactly how you envision it. 
7. Don’t compare your wedding to previous weddings: Weddings nowadays are going to be slightly different than weddings you have been a part of in previous years. It is likely that weddings in 2020 and within the foreseeable near future will not be the same as weddings in the past, and that is OK! Do not allow yourself to compare your special day to previous weddings that you have been a part of. Your day will still be special, even if some of the options have shifted. This allows you to become more creative (or with the help of others/event planners) to consider fun options that promote a safe environment for you and your guests. 
8. Treat yo’self!: 2020 has been such an inconvenience to all, especially to COVID brides. Be sure to treat yourself to something nice that you can incorporate on your wedding day, or other events such as your bridal shower or bachelorette. We all deserve a little pick-me-up for being subjected to 2020.
9. Enlist the help of your bridesmaids: If you’re feeling completely overwhelmed and you don’t know what to do, turn to the help of your bridesmaids for support! Plan a girls night, host a brunch, or whatever social activities you are all comfortable with, and discuss planning and options together. Please don’t allow yourself to feel alone in this. It’s not worth it to become extremely overwhelmed and drained with emotional exhaustion. Your girls will be happy to help you decide, and it is a great opportunity to plan DIY crafts to incorporate on your big day!
10. Lastly, just roll with it!: This is coming from a Type A, crazy planner who completely went berserk when the pandemic through a wrench into her wedding plans (it’s me…). Sometimes we allow ourselves to become so consumed with perfection, and in reality, it’s common for plans to change with or without a pandemic. Allow yourself to accept that plans will likely change, and that is OK. Shift your energy and focus on the positives, instead of becoming consumed with frustration and anxiety. If you allow yourself to accept change, then you will be emotionally content with the direction of your plans. 

I’m sending my love and support to all of my fellow COVID brides! I can’t stress this enough – please try to break free from the stress, worry and anxiety; and allow yourself to shift your energy and focus to positive things (like the thought of how incredibly amazing your big day will be, despite the pandemic)! Think about all of the obstacles and triumphs you have overcome during such an emotionally difficult and challenging year. Seek help from friends, family, or professional support if you need it. Take the time to reflect on yourself, and what is best for you. You’ve got this! I hope your wedding day is everything you’ve ever dreamed of and more. 🙂