Groom 101

Dealing with Stress Before the Wedding Day

Chris Easter

The final two weeks prior to your wedding day will be filled with lots of small details that will drive your bride-to-be — and consequently, you — nuts. The key is to expect this. It happens to more than 95 percent of couples, so think ahead of time and plan something special to help reduce the stress for both the bride and the groom.

Date Night

Plan a date night with one catch: no wedding talk allowed. Here are a few date options:

  • Dinner and a movie – let her choose the movie
  • Sunset drive or picnic
  • Go someplace special to the two of you
  • Sunset sailing – pack appetizers, dinner and drinks
  • Visit the local amusement park or zoo
  • Visit a nearby winery or orchard (we definitely recommend the winery, but picking berries is another option).

Feed Your Greed

Self indulgence is always a winner. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Couples massage (make sure you make the reservations, so you can reserve a female masseuse for yourself)
  • Cook a new or favorite dessert – brownies, sundaes, apple pie, strawberry shortcake, etc.
  • Take your fiancée out for a manicure or pedicure (you can participate if you like, but no cameras)
  • Designate $50 to $100 to spend on your fiancée. Tell her you’d like to take her shopping anywhere she wants (Victoria’s Secret, perhaps?). She’ll love your personal involvement.

For the Sports Fans

If you’re both sports fans, take in a game. This is a great way to let off some steam, and to get out and enjoy the outdoors. Other ideas include:

  • Golf – set up a tee time or just hit the practice range
  • Batting cages
  • Climb a rock wall or local mountain
  • Shooting sporting clays
  • Kayak/canoe a local stream
  • Go to a local sports game
  • Play a tennis match

Volunteering

You may not think of this as a typical escape, but chances are you’ve spent the last few months of your life planning one of the biggest days of your life. Volunteering is a great way to show your appreciation by giving back to the community and while taking your mind off your wedding at the same time. Some local events might include:

  • Serving breakfast, lunch or dinner at your local food kitchen
  • Habitat for Humanity – help build a life for others as you’ll soon be starting one for yourselves
  • Walk to raise awareness about diseases such as breast cancer, leukemia, autism, Alzheimer’s, etc.
  • Meals on Wheels – deliver meals to local elderly who are unable to leave their homes
  • Visit your city’s child care facilities
  • Visit your local Ronald McDonald House

TMR Recommendation: It’s important to think ahead. Believe us — if you plan a special surprise for your fiancée during this stressful time, you’ll likely reap the benefits long past your wedding night.

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