If you’ve started planning your wedding, it comes as no surprise that many potential stressors could occur while getting ready for the big day. From wardrobe malfunctions and questionable weather forecasts to staying on schedule and keeping everything within your budget, it’s easy to see how anxiety can creep in. Here are some helpful tips for planning a stress-free wedding and getting one step closer to happily ever after.

Hire A Wedding Planner Or Day-Of Coordinator

Hiring a wedding planner or day-of coordinator can take more than half the tasks off your to-do list. Do you have a vision but need help creating the look for your big day? Let the planners use their knowledge and connections to bring your ideas to fruition. Relax on the morning of your wedding and let the professionals handle the vendors and take care of last-minute details.

Stay Within Your Budget 

Handling the finances of a wedding can be quite a challenge, and let’s face it: weddings aren’t cheap. Your budget ultimately sets the bar when it comes time to begin the planning process. Determine nonnegotiables for the big day and start saving as early as possible.

Ask For Help And Delegate Responsibilities

Assign tasks to trusted family members and friends. Do you have an artistic sibling? Ask if they can help create wedding signs or other stationary and decor.

Pre-Pack The Essentials

You think everything is prepared and ready to go … and then a button pops off or a dress won’t stay in place. Prepare for the worst by pre-packing a “just in case” bag. Throw in everything that you might need in case of an emergency. Things like water, a mini sewing kit, Tide pens, fashion tape and scissors are a good place to start.

Stick To A Schedule

It’s important to create a realistic timeline that also has some room for error. If you have a planner or day-of coordinator, have them confirm dates and times with all of your vendors. Once a timeline is finalized, distribute copies to the wedding party and family members so that everyone can be on the same page – and on time.