Today I was reading a popular wedding blog and came across a post where a bride was recounting a Category 5 meltdown she had after the groom accidentally glimpsed her dress hanging in their hotel room. I’m talking screaming, tears, the whole works. And I just thought, really? Of all the things to get worked up about, this is what sends you into apoplexy? I was surprised to read dozens of supportive comments from other brides.

Photo from manolobrides.com

But then I stopped being Judgmental Bud and put myself in her shoes. I am not going to lie– I’m about three and a half months out and I’ve already had several hissyfits over trivial matters. Like mixing up the time for my hair trial. Or the recent fight I had with Plumeria Mom over the invitations. There were a lot of heated words during our lengthy venue search. I’m not proud of it but my temper does tend to bubble up in stressful situations.

Let’s face it: wedding planning is stressful! Even the most laid-back brides will be faced with issues at some point, whether from family, vendors, budgets or simply keeping on top of all the planning. I’m experimenting with different strategies to keep the wedding rage at bay. So far, regular workouts have been very helpful. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve gotten irritated by a minor wedding glitch and then said to myself, hey, I should go for a run. By the time I’ve pounded out a few miles on the treadmill or pavement, the issue that seemed so gigantic suddenly became manageable. Or even unimportant.

I also say to myself, is it really that important in the grand scheme of things? Usually, the answer is no. Plumeria Dude is helpful too– he is great about helping me put things into perspective and talking me down from Bridezillaville.

What did you freak out about in your planning, and how did you cope?