As a seasoned wedding planner, I know how thrilling AND overwhelming the wedding planning journey can be for couples. I've worn many hats for my clients over the years ... from planner, to negotiator, to designer, family mediator, personal assistant and often times, de facto therapist. And amidst the chaos of choosing venues, selecting vendors, managing budgets and finalizing guest lists, it’s easy to start feeling disconnected from each other.

However, the wedding planning process doesn’t have to be stressful for your relationship. In fact, it can be an opportunity to deepen your bond. Over the years, I’ve witnessed many couples find creative ways navigate this journey with grace and love. Here are five heartfelt tips to help you stay connected with your partner every step of the way!

1. Schedule regular "wedding review" nights. It might not sound romantic, but add in some wine & your favourite takeout and it will be an evening to look forward to every few weeks. Plus it's a great opportunity to address wedding decisions and issues together.

2. Set aside quality time each week. On the flip side, plan a weekly date night where wedding talk is OFF limits. In the midst of wedding planning madness, it’s essential to carve out dedicated quality time for just the two of you to reconnect, have fun and focus on each other.

3. Practice self-care. Wedding planning can be draining, so it’s important to prioritize self-care for both you and your partner. Encourage each other to take breaks (and often!), whether it’s hitting the gym, indulging in a spa day, going for a walk, or unwinding with a book.

4. Keep the communication lines open. Being open and honest with each other about your hopes, fears, and expectations for the big day is key to staying connected. If you're able to express your concerns and listen actively to your partner’s perspective, tackling wedding challenges together will only strengthen your bond.

5. Reflect on your relationship. Part of the joy of wedding planning is the chance to reminisce about your favourite memories together, from the day you met to the adventures you've shared along the way. These reflections will help when you're writing vows (if you choose) or selecting those unique touches to incorporate into your big day. But more importantly, they'll remind you of your love and commitment and help deepen your appreciation for each other.

While wedding planning comes with its fair share of challenges, it also presents an opportunity for you to grow closer together and create shared memories together. By setting aside quality time, communicating openly, and practicing self-care, you can strengthen your bond and embrace the entire wedding planning journey.

If you find yourself overwhelmed by the intricacies of wedding planning or looking for a little extra guidance or support, working with a wedding planner can help alleviate some of the wedding planning stress, so please reach out to see how we can help you plan your dream day! ✨