How to Keep a Wedding Drama Free

Get plenty of rest. A tired bride makes a cranky bride. The world will not end if you don't stay up until 5 am the night before your wedding tying the perfect bow on your wedding favors. Get some shut eye to help keep any "Bride-zilla" tendencies at bay. You'll be happy and the people around you will be happy--and relieved.

Remember those party favors without their perfect bows? Learn the power of delegation. Have a team of reliable friends around you who are willing to help. Make sure they aren't people who are quick to commit but hard to locate when the real work needs to get done. And be sure to rotate those trustworthy friends to make sure they don't get burned out. Chances are, they will feel bad about having to tell you no for certain favors and they may start to avoid you. Spread the duties around or give a task to groups of two or three bridesmaids, friends, or relatives so that they don't feel overwhelmed.

Don't be afraid to take time out. Despite our best intentions, miscommunications can occur and tempers will flare.To avoid saying things you will regret later and to keep your wedding party from doing the same, institute a time-out rule. When a situation starts to feel heated, take a 10 or 20 minute time out. This will give both parties time to reflect and make sure that the friendship remains intact.

Be patient with the groom. Men don't feel the same rush of excitement over shades of teal, floral designs, and registering for gifts. In fact, the only part of the process that may be of real interest to him might be the appointments for tasting food and cake. Don't get upset and take your anger out on him if he doesn't seem as thrilled as you are. He is excited, but he probably has a different way of showing it. Take a deep breath and remember that he is in love with you and has committed to being at the church on your special day.