I wrote about the benefits of having a mixed-gender wedding party, but would you consider going without a wedding party altogether for your wedding? This is something I wish I would have forgone with my own wedding. Initially, the idea of not having a wedding party can feel so uncomfortable! Isn't a beautiful and large wedding party part of the ideal wedding experience?!

I want every member of the LBGTQ+ community to know we are a safe space for you. We want to celebrate, showcase, and encourage all individuals of all identities. When you see a post written toward heterosexual norms, it is not meant to exclude you. It’s because of the awareness that these traditions are genuinely influenced by outdated expectations of men and women.

Raise your hand if you've been told it is "bad luck" for the groom to see the bride before the ceremony. You spend months planning a day together and are expected to have zero communication in the intimate moments leading up to the altar. For some people, that can be incredibly anxiety-inducing. For many couples, future spouses are our place of calm and comfort. They are one of the only people not bringing more chaos than calmness.

I want to provide you with some creative ideas on how to have a sober wedding that will ensure your day is fun and magical! You don't need alcohol to have a wedding to remember. When choosing to have a dry wedding, make sure to surround yourself with only people who support your decision.

Consider why couples may find the engagement period more intense than dating. You are navigating how to delegate tasks and set firmer boundaries than you may have encountered previously. It is stressful, and stress can wreak havoc on a person’s ability to remain peaceful at the moment. There will be rough moments, but those can most definitely be used to grow as a couple and as individual people.

Your party and wedding are for you and your partner. I know it’s hard, but you must know how to set boundaries and put what you want first. It is not selfish to want everything about your wedding to be catered to who you are as a person and not what your mom or great aunt wants. These four tips can help you cultivate a plan to have a better chance of relaxing and enjoying the process of planning your wedding! Remember, your peace should be your number one priority.