To say that I’m stressed would be a gigantic understatement. I have less than a week until my wedding day, and although I’ve never been more sure on who I want to marry, the day is just way more complicated than just about love. I have never planned something so in detail in my life. I’ve also never been more scared about the aspects that I can’t control.

Here are some of the areas that I’m concerned about and some tips to making it a little easier for those future brides.

1. Make sure to take the time off that you need.

I’m currently dealing with this mistake right now. I’m working two jobs, and I thought that I could take only the last few days of the week off before the wedding. However, this has proven to be extremely stressful for me. With family coming in and last minute decorations and setup that need to be done, being tied to a previous commitment in my work schedule has made it very difficult to find the time to do what I need. Trying to get a shift off now is almost impossible. So, make sure to take the necessary time off before and after your wedding. It will make the setup go smoother, and you’ll be able to enjoy the day more.

2. Make sure you get some sleep.

This point ties in with the above point. I have hardly had the sleep I needed lately because I’ve been constantly working, but sleep is definitely needed. On top of the stress, being exhausted just makes going through everything hard on your body. I’ve often felt very emotional over things that I know weren’t that big of a deal just because I was so tired. Make sure to get your rest, especially as the wedding draws near.

3. Make sure you stay true to yourself and your fiancé for the major decisions.

There are so many different people that you think about during the planning of your wedding. Your parents, his parents, the guests, those coming from out of town, etc. But it’s ultimately your day. Even if something is traditional or doesn’t seem to be what someone wants, trust in what you and your partner want. No one else is making a lifelong commitment. It’s your love that everyone is celebrating. Make it a worthwhile party.

4. Make sure to focus on each other during this time

Yes, there is a ton of planning, decorations to be made, dress fittings, everything imaginable. You will have to deal with major and minor setbacks and obstacles that need to be overcome. However, don’t lose sight of the person you’re marrying. Don’t let the planning consume you. Have discussions about it, but don’t sit and only talk or complain about it. You still need to maintain a relationship. Make sure to spend some time together focusing on each other, not the wedding. The day will only last a few hours, but losing contact with your partner could mean a strain at the start of the new part of your time together.

5. Remember it is just one day, but your marriage is a lifetime.

I’ve said it a lot in this short amount of time, but it really is just one day. Your marriage is just a piece of paper. Your life together is what you make it out to be. If you don’t put the time and effort into each other, then the day ultimately means nothing at all. People are getting divorced all the time. No wedding license or special day can stop that. Enjoy the day and know that it is leading you to a better future. Be excited for all the days following the party. The white dress will be put away, replaced by mom clothes, attire for your career, etc.

Love is timeless, but it takes effort. A wedding is just a party to celebrate a love you have already discovered. But make sure the love doesn’t stop there or that it doesn’t get put on the back burner while the planning is going on. Breathe deep, and you can get through all the stress as long as you focus on the importance of all the days after.