Are You a Bridezilla? (And how not to turn into one)
Don’t let all that wedding stress turn you into a difficult and perfectionist bride.

You are normally a sweetheart, but ever since you’ve gotten that engagement ring, things just don’t seem to go your way. You can’t find the right dress, the caterer does not serve the dishes you want, and your jie mei absolutely refuse to wear the dresses you picked. Before you panic, ask yourself: Is it them, or is it really you?

Are you turning into, gasp, Bridezilla? Here are some tips to identify if you are turning into one, and how to prevent it from happening. 1. Your friends are ignoring you. Even best friends have their breaking points. It is one thing to celebrate your engagement but there’s no need to gush over every detail, from the carat size of the ring to finding the perfect dress to how gorgeous your fiancé is. It doesn’t help if your friend is single. If it’s going to be all “me, me, me” affair, it will only be extremely tiresome. Solution? Yes, you should talk about your wedding but think about your friends too. Why not talk about how they can help at the wedding? Make them feel included by asking them for banquet suggestions, bridal themes and bridesmaid fashion ideas.

2. You snap at the drop of a hat
It seems that nobody – the hotel, the caterer, the florist and the bridal boutique – is accommodating to your requests. You find yourself arguing over every morsel, petal and sequin.

Solution?
Chill. Take a breath, relax and don’t sweat the details. An angry bride is not a pretty bride. Bear in mind that a perfect wedding does not have to look perfect. If the florist says she can’t bring in a certain flower because it is not in season, get another that is available. It may be your wedding and you want the best of everything, but remember the big picture – your marriage is more important.

3. You are so busy that you neglect your job and forget your parents’ birthdays.
You find yourself taking sick leave or just skipping work so that you can do the invites, or you are so wrapped up negotiating with the vendors that you missed your mom’s birthday dinner.

Solution?
Remind yourself that the world does not revolve around you. Other people exist too. Drop that meeting and go visit your parents. Maintaining healthy relationships with family and friends will make for a happier wedding.

4. You’ve busted your budget
You just couldn’t resist getting an “upgrade” package from that bridal boutique. You simply had to include those “gourmet” dishes that were highly recommended by the caterer, and splurge on extra gifts for your entourage. Before you know it, you’ve gone way over budget. You are in danger of maxing out your credit cards and considering borrowing from parents and friends.

Solution?
If you can’t afford it (meaning using money you don’t have, ie credit cards), then don’t spend on it. You can still have a great wedding on a budget – just make sure you stick to it. Do not let emotions dictate the practicalities of your big day. Before you buy or sign for any service, ask yourself if it is really necessary. If you have a vision of the perfect wedding, including all the perks, you may want to wait. Postpone the date and save up. The last thing you want is to be broke when you start your new life with your partner.

Related Articles:
• LOVE EXOTICA - Take a leaf from the pages of 101 Arabian Nights and turn your wedding into a colourful extravaganza.
• BRIDAL STYLE Q&A - Planning your dream wedding? Help is here!
• TABLE-SETTINGS - Fabulous settings filled with eco-touches for an ultra unique and memorable celebration.
• ECO-SAVVY SHOPPING - Keeping things eco-friendly for your wedding can be easy. Here are 20 places to go for the greenest supplies.
• FORMAL FESTIVITIES - Planning a black-tie bridal bash? Here’s how you get things formal.