So, you’re about to get engaged? Congratulations! Or should I say, welcome to the whirlwind of dodging “When’s he going to propose?” interrogations at family dinners and curating a Pinterest board so extensive it could double as a wedding planner’s thesis. We all know the drill: one minute, you’re casually dating, and the next, you’re stress-Googling “how to merge finances without losing your identity.”
Before you get swept away by venue tours and cake tastings (priorities, of course), let’s talk about something just as crucial, your work-life balance. Because trust me, if you don’t get a grip on it now, you’ll find yourself planning centerpieces during work calls and answering emails on your honeymoon.
Here’s your guide to making sure you still have a life outside of wedding prep and a career that doesn’t crumble under the weight of your future mother-in-law’s “helpful” suggestions.
1. Stop Working Overtime Like You’re Trying to Afford a Royal Wedding
Listen, we love a strong work ethic, but if you’re clocking in 70-hour workweeks just to pay for an ice sculpture of you and your fiancé, it’s time to reassess. Set boundaries. Delegate. Learn the power of a firmly worded out-of-office email.
2. Make a “No Wedding Talk” Rule With Your Partner
Yes, wedding planning is fun (or at least Instagram makes it look that way), but if every conversation turns into “Should we go with peonies or roses?” you’ll both lose it. Set aside one day a week where wedding talk is banned. This way, your relationship still exists beyond cake flavors.
3. Learn the Art of Politely Declining “Well-Meaning” Advice
Your aunt’s friend’s cousin may think backyard weddings are so in right now, but if that’s not your vibe, practice the phrase: “That’s such a great idea! We’ll consider it.” (Translation: We won’t.)
4. Establish a “Leaving Work at Work” Ritual
Whether it’s a dance party in your car, a power walk around the block, or blasting Lizzo on the way home, find a way to mentally shut down work mode before stepping into wedding mode, or relaxation mode. Your sanity depends on it.
5. Prep for the “So, When Are You Having Kids?” Question
Because the moment you get engaged, someone will ask. Have a stock response ready. Something like, “Oh, we’re focusing on our puppy first” or “We’re just trying to get through this wedding without emotionally imploding, Aunt Carol.”
6. Block Out “Me Time” Like It’s a Board Meeting
Self-care isn’t just bubble baths and face masks (though, yes, please). It’s also making time for hobbies, reading trashy romance novels, or binging an entire season of Bridgerton without guilt. If it’s on your calendar, it’s official.
7. Get Your Finances (and Amazon Cart) Under Control
Between wedding expenses and bachelorette trip deposits, now’s the time to make sure your credit card doesn’t file for emotional distress. Set financial goals with your partner, and yes, maybe delete your payment info from Sephora for a while.
8. Make a Post-Wedding Career Plan
Once the confetti settles, what’s next? If your job has been feeling meh, use this time to think about your future, not just the wedding’s. Maybe it’s time to ask for that raise, change careers, or finally launch that side hustle.
9. Master the Art of “No”
Between bridal showers, work projects, and mysteriously last-minute family events, you might feel like a human doormat. Practice saying, “I’d love to, but I can’t.” No explanation needed.
10. Remember, Your Relationship is More Than the Wedding
It’s easy to get caught up in the madness, but at the end of the day, the wedding is one day, your relationship is forever. So, if your partner is more excited about Taco Tuesday than linen swatches, maybe take a step back and enjoy the ride.
Marriage is a wild ride, and balancing work, life, and an impending wedding can feel like juggling flaming swords while blindfolded. But take a deep breath, grab a glass of wine (or two), and remember, you’ve got this. Now, tell me in the comments: What’s the weirdest unsolicited wedding advice you’ve gotten so far?