Planning a wedding is no easy task, especially when you’re balancing a full-time job and personal commitments. The process involves touring venues, hiring vendors, attending dress fittings, and selecting your menu. Wedding planning can take anywhere from nine to twelve months, according to planner Tory Smith of Smith + James. However, there are ways to balance your personal and professional lives with ease. Here are 10 expert tips to help you navigate planning your dream wedding while working a 9-to-5 job.

1. Hire a Professional Planner
When you’re busy with work, hiring a wedding planner can save you time and effort. Planners handle vendor selections, budget management, and scheduling, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your life.

2. Designate Planning Time
Even with a planner, you’ll need to be involved in certain decisions. Set aside time during your week or on weekends to attend to wedding-related tasks.

3. Stay Organized
Use a system like Google Drive or a paper notebook to keep track of your wedding plans. Staying organized helps manage the extra workload.

4. Create a Wedding-Specific Email
Separate your wedding communication from personal and work emails. Create a dedicated email address for wedding tasks to stay organized and avoid missing important messages.

5. Identify Your Priorities
Focus on the aspects of your wedding that matter most to you and your partner. Invest your time and resources where it counts, and compromise on less important details.

6. Limit Your Research
Avoid spending excessive time on social media for wedding inspiration. Stick to your vision to prevent decision fatigue and stay focused.

7. Scale Back on DIY Projects
While DIY projects can be fun and cost-effective, limit them to avoid becoming overwhelmed. Prioritize and start early if you choose to tackle any projects.

8. Learn to Delegate
Delegate tasks to friends and family members based on their strengths. This will help you manage your workload more effectively.

9. Find an Accountability Partner
Find someone who can help you stay on track with planning goals. Regular check-ins with a partner or friend can keep you motivated.

10. Reframe Your Thinking
Remember, you’re planning a celebration of your love. Keep a positive perspective, and try to enjoy the process instead of seeing it as an extra job.

By following these tips, you can successfully manage your wedding planning alongside your full-time job, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience leading up to your special day.