The Bridezilla Syndrome

Written by Gina Romanello
The author of Chicken Soup for the Bride’s Soul.

In a fast-paced world of wedding planning, stress levels are high; immune systems are low; and over the course of the past 20 years, brides have transmitted, what has become a bridal epidemic of our time.

A contagious condition, BS has become more prominent and has plagued today’s busy, wedding-planning woman. In a preliminary study, the disease has spread at an alarming rate. Symptoms of victims of BS -- better known as Bridezillas -- include reoccurring mood spells, bouts with selfishness, signs of controlling behavior and feelings of meticulousness. Unfortunately fiancés, bridal party members, friends and family eventually fall victim to the actions and attitudes of a Bridezilla.

Research suggests that symptoms are recognized most often by the fiancé and Maid of Honor, and are completely undetectable by the actual victim. In some cases, a bridal party member, who having had too much to drink, confronted the Bridezilla. Most often, an emotional, breakdown of the victim would follow, thus intensifying her condition. In a survey of 100 Maids of Honor, an alarming 85% said they avoided confrontation with the victim for fear it would only exasperate the illness.

Though it’s been said there is no cure, there are ways to prevent infection of BS. A survey of healthy brides, whom successfully planned their weddings without contracting the disease, was conducted. Results showed commonalities of the actions performed to avoid the disorder. Doctors, psychologists and wedding planners strongly suggest the following preventative therapy:

* Keep Perspective - remind yourself that the wedding is only one day in your life. When things get out of control, close your eyes and remember the reason why you are planning this wedding in the first place.
* Don’t Assume Your Groom Doesn’t Want to Help - ask him what he’d like to take responsibility for; and then let him. (note: some grooms may follow the cliché and decline this offer.)
* Know That You Can’t Control Everything - realize this and accept it!
* Delegate. Delegate. Delegate - If you act like you can handle everything, people will let you. Spread the duties.
* Don't Sweat the Small Stuff - people won’t remember whether or not your invitations had those cute little tissues enclosed.
* Treat The People You Cherish with Love - the wedding is one day; your family and friends are forever.
* Allow Others to Vent - give your fiancé, family and bridesmaids permission to tell you when you’re going off the deep-end.
* Take the Heat - give yourself permission to hear them.
* Do Something for Yourself Every Day - the catch is that it must not involve the wedding.
* No Wedding Talk After 10pm .

Article Continued