Putting together a couple’s special day is an important job, and wedding planners always want to make the planning process happy and stress-free for their clients. But what if you're going through a stressful time because you—or someone close to you—is battling an illness?
“As a professional in the event services industry, you may find that clients expect you to consistently match their level of enthusiasm and excitement for their big event,” explains Aleyda Martinez of Tlapazola Party Rentals. “While this might come naturally at times, you will inevitably encounter seasons in your life where an illness or other personal struggles make it hard to keep a smile on your face.” Luckily, we have some tips on how to get through these difficult times while still taking care of yourself and making your clients happy!
Allow Yourself to be Upset
You might feel like there’s no time to give in to the emotional roller coaster you’re on because you need to remain “professional” at all times. But according to Dr. Debanjan Banerjee, a psychiatrist at Doctor Spring, ignoring what you feel can only make you more anxious and stressed. So if you need to excuse yourself from a meeting to have a good cry, or take a day off because you’re feeling down, then give in to it. “No matter how hard it is for you, allowing yourself to feel bad and giving yourself some time to accept the situation will help you become more rational and functional,” says Dr. Banerjee.
Set Boundaries
While clients might disagree, you don't have to be at their disposal 24 hours a day. That’s why Martinez recommends that when you’re on your own time, focus on taking care of yourself in whatever way that looks like for you, whether it’s going for a walk, writing in a journal, having lunch with friends, or something else that brings you some peace of mind.
Keep Communication Open
You shouldn’t feel obligated to go into details about your personal life, but you should be honest with clients about the fact that you have some issues you'll be dealing with during the planning process. And of course, assure them that when you can’t be there, everything will be taken care of by your team members.
Rely on Your Team
It’s important to have a team of people around you to rely on at all times, but especially when you’re struggling with health issues. You should be able to take time off—whether it’s for doctor’s appointments or simply to recharge—without worrying that things will fall apart without you.
Reach Out For Support
While talking about your feelings and worries to family and friends won’t make the illness go away, it will make your problems feel surmountable, says Dr. Banerjee, who adds that keeping your emotions to yourself will only increase anxiety and depression.
Find a Peer Group
People that have been in the same situation can not only empathize with you, but also give you helpful advice and tips on how to navigate this situation. “Survivors are willing to provide one-on-one support whether face to face or online,” notes Dr. Banerjee.
Don’t Feel Guilty
When dealing with a loved one’s illness, there might be times when you feel guilty for being away and even enjoying what you do. Don’t do that to yourself. No one can be a caregiver 24/7 and finding something that brings you joy—like wedding planning—is nothing to be ashamed of.
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