Let’s be real: life doesn’t slow down just because you’re planning a wedding—or because you’ve had the wedding. If anything, it speeds up. And somewhere in between the checklists, group texts, Pinterest boards, and Target runs, it’s easy to forget to check in with you.
Whether you’re in the middle of engagement season, newly married, deep in motherhood (hi, I’m a mom of three), or somewhere in between, I want to gently remind you:
You deserve to feel good right now. Not later. Not when the inbox is cleared or the dress fits perfectly. Now.
I’ve thought a lot about this—especially as someone who’s approaching 10 years of marriage, has walked through intense seasons of growth (spiritually, emotionally, physically), and still genuinely loves skincare, beauty routines, and the joy of “getting ready.” There’s something about this world—the rituals, the care, the softness—that’s always spoken to me.
I think that’s why I love weddings so much. There’s this build-up, this sense of purpose and anticipation. But what happens after the aisle? Do we just toss the skincare, stop prioritizing wellness, and let the glow fade?
I don’t think so.
Just because we become moms, or hit a new chapter, or shift into another season—it doesn’t mean we stop taking care of ourselves or creating beautiful moments. We just learn to do it differently.
So today, here’s a little encouragement from someone who’s still learning, still evolving, and still choosing to show up in small, meaningful ways:
Start your morning with something that feels like you
It doesn’t need to be a whole routine—just a few quiet minutes before the chaos kicks in.
Lately, it’s been coffee on the couch with a devotional, or worship music playing softly while I stretch or get ready. I’m so guilty of grabbing my phone first thing—but the mornings I don’t? I feel so much more grounded.
Set simple boundaries
I call these my “everyday edits.” Things like: no emails after dinner. Or not refreshing Instagram a dozen times.
During wedding planning, I used to give myself nights off from talking about the wedding. That practice stuck. Even now, I create space to just be. You’re allowed to disconnect from the noise.
Find beauty in the little things
Trader Joe’s flowers. A good eye cream. Frothing your creamer. Wearing the fancy robe just because.
Beauty doesn’t need to be saved for the wedding day. It can—and should—live in your everyday life, too.
Check in with yourself (and your person)
How are you actually doing? Not “fine.” Not “busy.”
I’ve found that the best conversations often happen in the quiet—not during the highlight reel moments, but on the couch in sweats when we’re both just there. 10 years in, I’m still learning that checking in doesn’t have to be deep—it just has to be real.
Celebrate the small wins
You made the call. You cleaned the house. You took a walk. You made time for you. That counts.
This life is made in the in-between. Let’s not wait for the big days to feel proud or joyful or excited. It’s all worth celebrating.
One last thing, friend:
You don’t have to earn rest. Or beauty.
You’re allowed to light the candle. To do your makeup just because. To feel like you again—even if it’s been a minute. You don’t need a wedding or a milestone to show up for yourself.
So here’s to elevating the everyday.
For the brides, the moms, the women figuring it out in real-time…
You’re doing better than you think. Breathe deep. You’ve got this.
xo,
Jessica
