Planning a wedding is usually a more expensive venture than you had anticipated. As a result, your personal budget feels like it has zero wiggle room. Since everything is going towards your big day, you don't have the cash to indulge in a little retail TLC like you used to. However, with all of the stress, you could really use a bit of pampering. Here are 10 ideas under $20 to give yourself a treat without breaking the bank!

Fresh Air & Coffee

Put that Andrew Jackson towards some extra gas and head out of town. Head to your favorite hiking spot or park, or discover a new one. Bring a cup of coffee and go for a nice stroll, breathing deeply and letting the sunshine soak in. Sometimes just being able to get outside in a different space can make all the difference in our stress levels.

Stack of Magazines

For many of us, we have our favorite blogs and emags, but still love classic printed magazines. There's just something about thumbing through pages about Hollywood stars and the latest designer collections that is instant therapy. Buy yourself a few of your favorites and settle in for a leisurely afternoon.

Pedicure

In most cities it is pretty easy to find a basic pedicure for under $20. Although many people might recommend a very affordable one at a student salon, we advise against it if what you are looking for is relaxation. Although the work is usually very good, the atmosphere is not normally very relaxing. Check your local review sites to find a mall nail studio with happy customers, and treat your toes to a bright new color!

Movie Matinee

Got a Sunday all to yourself? Head to a theater and check out that movie you've been dying to see (that your honey has absolutely no interest in). And yes, definitely purchase a popcorn with extra butter for a decadent treat!

Museum

Why is it that we when travel we have to visit every museum and tourist hot spot, but we've never set foot in our own city's treasured attractions? Take a trip to the local art museum or historical society to learn a little more about where you live. This quiet experience will be a great re-charge for introverted brides who just need a little time away to clear their heads. Some museums even offer free evenings one night a month, so make sure to check event calendars in your area!

Dessert

You've been a model of health and willpower over the last several months because you want to look your best on your wedding day. But you haven't had real sugar in what seems like forever, and the heart wants what the heart wants. Savor a really great, luxurious dessert from your favorite bakery. Be totally guilt-free about the whole thing. And then if you must return to the reality of your pristine diet and exercise regime, so be it.

Spa at Home

Okay, so there is no way you can afford a spa treatment at an actual spa. But $20 will totally buy you an individual mask, bubble bath, and salt scrub from your local drugstore. Because you're at home, promise yourself ahead of time that you will not focus on how your bathroom cabinets need to be organized or the laundry needs to get done while you are relaxing.

Nap

Preschoolers just don't know how good they have it. Naps are downright awesome. When you don't get good sleep at night, the stress chemicals in your body increase. Talk about a vicious cycle! However, grabbing a quick nap can help you reset, allowing you to feel better and ultimately accomplish more. So when you have the time, indulge in a little snooze. And it's free!

Drinks & Netflix

Because your schedule is so packed, you probably haven't had time to hang out with friends. For extroverts, time around their favorite people is crucial to feeling great. Buy a couple bottles of cheap wine (or make cocktails from your bar stash) and invite the gal pals over for a serious Netflix binge. Watch a good comedy-laughing will help you de-stress even faster.

A New Lipstick

Or eyeliner. Or blush. Whatever makeup makes you feel perked up and ready to tackle the day, indulge in a new shade for fall. Some department store brands have cosmetics for under $20, but otherwise you can find some great drugstore products from companies like NYX or E.L.F.

Photography | The Vanilla Bean Blog (2) | Viera Photographics (3)