You thought that once you had chosen your venue, found the dress, and selected your wedding cake, you'd be able to put your feet up and breathe a little. But no such luck. Between bracelets for the bridesmaids and ribbons to decorate your wedding programs, you never knew a to-do list could be so long. These months are supposed to be one of the happiest times in your life, but you are so stressed that you just aren't enjoying your engagement the way you should be. Here are three tips to coping with the stress and getting everything done!

Accept offers of help.

I've rarely met an overwhelmed bride that wasn't dealing with an inner control freak. Often, brides are surrounded by those willing and offering to help, but they don't trust others to make decisions on their behalf. If someone wants to run an errand for you, let them and be grateful. Find a task that is suited to their skills and tastes. The crafty friend with a closet full of fabric will totally understand you want ivory, not white ribbon. Your mother, the most cautious driver you know, might just be the perfect person to pick up the fragile votives you have picked out for the reception centerpieces. Save the items you consider the most important for you to manage.

Prioritize your list.

So, is everything on your list absolutely necessary? Will your wedding fall apart if you don't have glitter-covered pears to hold up the place cards at each setting? Of course not. Make sure that your checklist adequately allows for the most crucial items to be completed first and given the most attention. This also means that if you aren't able to finish every single detail, you have to be willing to channel Elsa and let it go. As you reorganize your list, if you find yourself deeming some tasks unnecessary, by all means go ahead and take them off. A lean and mean pre-wedding list is the best way to restore your sanity.

Take care of yourself.

If you aren't getting enough sleep, drinking plenty of water, eating regularly and healthfully, guess what? You're not going to feel your best. The more stressed you are, the more you need to take care of yourself to give yourself the best chance of coping well. An overwhelming list isn't going to get any better if you are exhausted. If you can afford it, head to a day spa for a facial. Don't have the extra moolah? Go for a relaxing stroll in your favorite park and breathe in the fresh air or binge watch Netflix with your gal pals.

Photography | D. Park Photography