How to calm your pre-ceremony jitters
Feeling a mix of nerves and excitement before your ceremony is completely normal. You will be standing up in front of all your loved ones, sharing your vows, marrying the love of your life… it’s a big moment and the culmination of lots of planning and anticipation.
Here are some tips for calming your pre-ceremony jitters:
1. Acknowledge your feelings are normal
Taking a moment to appreciate that the butterflies in your stomach, sweatiness and racing heart are normal can help you to feel better - everyone feels this way on their wedding day, welcome to the club!! You’ve been waiting months (maybe even years) for your special day, your family have gathered and you will finally be able to marry your partner. My oh my, there’s a lot of exciting things going on. If you expect these feelings and acknowledge them on the day, you may not feel so overwhelmed by their presence. It’s all part of the marriage experience and the adrenaline will heighten your joy (and give you the energy to party on into the night!)
2. Brief your family and friends on the kind of wedding morning you want
If you plan to spend your morning with your bridal party or family and friends, you make like to brief them on the kind of atmosphere you would like them to create for you. If you want to shake up your nerves with loud music, champagne and laughter - tell your people! If you want to keep things calm, quiet and organised - ask your people to do just that! Only you will know what you need on your wedding day and I’m sure your family and friends will try and give you the environment you need before the ceremony.
3. Surround yourself with people who will make you feel good
It may seem like a no-brainer but, trust me, not all our loved ones make us feel good when emotions run high. Yes, I said it. I know you love your sister more than anything in the world, but her anxiousness may still set you off. Your aunt may mean well when she tries to check that everything’s in order and your mum may be so excited that she’s in a bit of a flap. Emotions run high for everyone on a wedding day, so it’s okay to acknowledge that your family and friend’s emotions may not make you feel your best before the ceremony. I suggest considering this before inviting people to get ready with you, or to schedule in some time for just your and your feel-good people right before your ceremony.
4. Tell your celebrant how you’re feeling
Your celebrant knows the sense of anticipation, nervousness and excitement you will be experiencing before your ceremony. They will also know just what to do and say to alleviate any concerns or to get you into the right headspace prior to your ceremony. I like to check in with my couples pre-ceremony to see how they are feeling, to ask (at your request) stress-inducing family members to take their seat in the ceremony space and to give you a moment’s quiet before you make your way to your ceremony.