Planning for the Big Day! Wedding Health and Safety Tips

Planning a wedding can be wonderful and stressful, so make decisions that support the day and your mental and physical health. Include ways to be safe and healthy on your wedding plan "to do" list.

Promoting a Healthy Mind and Body

Make healthy choices to help you look and feel good, not only for your wedding, but also for a lifetime.

• Include physical activity by getting at least 2½ hours of physical activity a week. Don't wait until the last minute
• Get more physical activity if you are planning to lose weight.
• Plan your workouts. One common mistake is to "cram" workouts in just before the wedding day. This can lead to unwanted stress and injury.
• Having a healthy body includes eating right. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables and avoid crash diets.
• If you smoke, quit now.
• Manage stress. Learn ways to manage stress, including getting enough sleep, setting limits, and relaxing. Also make sure to ask for help!
• Get your check-up. Don’t put off exams and health screenings.

Planning the Wedding and Other Events

There are many ways to make health a priority in planning wedding and related events.

• Prepare or provide healthy meals, appetizers, snacks, drinks, and desserts.
• Know the rules of food safety.
• Host activities in smoke-free venues.
• Choose and place decorations so they do not increase the risk for falls, burns, or other types of injuries.

Preparing for Your Honeymoon

Preparation is key when planning your honeymoon. Take time to plan ahead. Research ways to stay safe and healthy during your honeymoon.

Stay current on travel information and safety from the U.S Department of State.

Check health scores for cruise ships. If traveling abroad learn about common diseases for the area and get vaccinations; pack and use sunscreen, insect repellent, and appropriate safety gear for activities (such as helmets, life jackets, and knee pads). These steps may lower your risk for illness and injury.

Being True to Yourself

Ask yourself a few questions. Does your partner seem overbearing or controlling? Is there any abuse or violence in your relationship? Often, intimate partner violence starts with emotional abuse. This behavior can progress to physical or sexual assault.

• Pay attention to anything interfering with your ability to be safe and healthy or increasing your risk for disease or injury.
• Schedule an appointment to see your health provider, a counselor, or others for help if you are feeling depressed or anxious.

Learn more tips to have a safe and healthy wedding and honeymoon!

More Information

• Wedding Health and Safety Tips
• Family Health
• Wedding Health-e-Cards
• Tips for a Safe and Healthy Life
• Women's Health
• Men's Health