As your wedding approaches, there are a lot of thoughts swirling in your mind. So many people to coordinate, details to plan, and yourself to take care of. It’s important to consider the following as you begin your wedding week.

1) It’s okay to take time for yourself.

Yes, there are tons of people who’ve traveled a long way to see you, but taking some time to be by yourself or alone with your partner is essential as the reality of all your planning begins to take form.

2) It’s not actually all about you.

While, yes, the day is a lot about you, people are also excited to see the other guests as well. This is helpful to keep in mind when you feel the need to sneak off for a quiet moment, but may feel guilty about leaving your guests.

3) Everything will not happen exactly as planned.

And that’s ok. Things will work out beautifully in their own way. Planning is essential to get you to this point, but it’s ok if plans have to change. Weather is probably the most common thing to change your plans. Remember to go with the flow, cuz there’s no way to change the weather!

4) Focus on the essentials.

Every person has a long list of all the little things they want to do… For their partner, the guests, their parents, the wedding party. While all of these are beautiful ideas, focus on the essential things you feel you need for that day. Gifts can be sent later and some things won’t hurt to be left out.

5) Delegate, delegate, delegate

You’ve been planning this event for months. You know exactly what’s supposed to happen and when. But who else knows these details? It’s time to get it all out of your head and on to paper! Share this paper with people who can help – friends, family, the caterer, your wedding doula or even hire a wedding day coordinator.