Engagement ring? Check.

Wedding to-do list? Check.

Taffeta color swatches for the girls? Check.

Need a nap? You know it!

If you’re planning a wedding, chances are you’re probably burning all cylinders, running close to empty and in need of a honeymoon now! And no wonder — with all of the details and components that comprise a “typical” wedding, you should be applauded for staying vertical on your beautiful (though no-time-to-be-pedicured) feet. Well, my go-getting, pedal-to-the-metal bride-to-be, I have two words of advice: Relax … enjoy! This season of your life will not only fly by, but the opportunities to make connections and re-connections with friends and loved ones will likely never be this abundant again. Take advantage of this time. These simple tips will help maximize the free time you do have so you can enjoy the people closest to your heart.

Fathom the Flexibility

I grew up in the South; my husband grew up in the North. Needless to say, when we married, our friends and family weren’t exactly within driving distance for a weekend party. So we did what I suggest to you—we came up with creative ways to include everyone in some part of the wedding and the events leading up to it. For us, that meant being flexible. We had a “video” wedding shower mailed all the way to Nashville from the good folks of Pennsylvania who were unable to attend in person. Then, after the wedding, when we headed north for the holidays, we threw a party with our Northern friends to celebrate our new marriage. Bottom line? Be flexible. Due to geography and other variables, some of your nearest and dearest might have to be included in festivities as they are able. Liberate yourself from traditional wedding activity rules and timelines, and everyone will appreciate it.

Budget Tweaks

It’s no secret—travel is expensive! As gas prices continue to go up, up, up, traveling to a wedding becomes more fantasy than reality. And, as you and/or your parents are probably painfully aware, every additional head at the reception is one more chunk of change on the growing list of expenses. So do your part to ease the financial strain of a wedding for yourself and your guests. Research the times of the year when travel is less expensive. Also, ask for group discounts from airlines and nearby hotels. Consider choosing locations for your wedding or the parties before and after that are geographically central for most of your guests. Less driving means less expense ... and more loved ones you’d love to have witness your special day.

Finally, if you’re lucky enough to fill the ballroom/church/rolling field of green with all of your favorite people, get creative about food and other incidentals that drive prices up. Consider an early wedding with a brunch reception or a late night wedding with a dessert reception, and don’t underestimate the expense of your bar tab. Try a limited bar, set a price cap and make sure your caterer sticks to it. Your guests will understand. You are the reason they’re there, not the buffet.

Take a Load Off. (Yes, Really!)

Chances are, your wedding will be one of the few events in your life when Great Aunt Irma and Cousin Danny, your second cousin twice-removed, can come together to offer best wishes for a love-filled marriage. It’s true. Weddings are one of the only opportunities for families to agree on at least one thing: their hopes for your happy future. That’s right, bride-to-be. Your commitment to and love for your future hubby can actually be a foundation for all of the special people in your lives to reconnect and grow closer. So give yourself a pat on the back, ditch that to-do list and go take a nap. You’ve earned it!