New Brides: 8 things every bride-to-be should know

Every time I log into Facebook, someone has changed their relationship status to 'married'.  And while most of my friends are getting hitched, I'm here - observing, contemplating and wondering.

Firstly, as far as observing goes, there have been quite a few close friends whose wedding I attended in recent times and I couldn't help but notice how all of them had the same worries. There was some reminiscing those carefree college days, some stress about how drastically life was about to change and ofcourse, for those who had arranged marriages, there was the unfathomable pressure of being above average in the sheets. (Like breaking the ice wasn't hard enough a task...)

Secondly, I contemplated about love and life and whether I was ready to merge the two, officially. And lastly, I wondered. I wondered how overwhelming and daunting it must be for new brides. I pondered over how emotionally profuse the experience must be and then, I thought about how I could simplify the process in my own little way. 

After the amalgamation of these three steps I followed, I felt it necessary to put ou there, a guide for young brides. A list of things I thought every bride-to-be or newlywed should know. And while it may not avert the miscellaneous emotions a girl goes through on her big day, it will surely help make little mental notes that will help ease out the tension.

Here are 8 things every new bride should know: 

1. Shut the doors to your past 

Carrying any baggage forward post marriage is not a good idea. Though it may be tough to forget certain people, emotions and events, it is in your best interest to make peace with what is gone. The sooner you accept change, the easier it will get. 

2. It might be awkward and that's okay

If you aren't as comfortable with your partner, there might be moments of awkwardness and you should know that that's normal. Making love or even conversation for that matter isn't a clear cut, surgical process and it's alright if things seem a little messy or unplanned. Go with the flow and embrace the vibe of vulnerability. 

3. Your wedding is not the end of an era but the start of a new one

While you might reflect back and feel apprehensive about this whole big change, don't start off on a negative note. Your wedding isn't the end of anything. It's just the beginning of a new life with your partner. Set a positive tone of reaction in your mind and you'll be just fine.

4. Communication is the key

Don't go into a shell. You might think or wish that your man could read your mind and figure out how to deal with your actions and reactions but unfortunately, that's not how it works. Most men find it hard to figure out their own feelings so you can imagine how hard it will be for him to read you. So share, talk and express your feelings. It will avoid any misunderstandings and will make everything so much easier. 

5. You may not end up making love on your wedding night 

Contrary to what we've seen in the movies, your wedding night isn't always about sex. Though you and your spouse might want it to be, the wedding ceremonies can be taxing and tiresome, resulting in you feeling maxed out by the end of the night. If that's the case, enjoy some cuddling and talking and just know that it's perfectly normal. 

6. Undressing could be a task 

Considering how Indian brides need an entourage to help them get dressed, it's not the easiest task to undress by yourself. So have patience and go about it methodically. Also, don't forget to take out the gazillion hairpins and safety pins placed all over. You don't want to hurt your spouse or yourself once the lights go out!

7. You still have an identity. Act like it. 

Though sometimes Indian culture may demand you to be the 'good sacrificing wife', don't get so wrapped up in striving to be demure and submissive, you will end up sending out the wrong message. If he's not someone you've known for too long, he might not appreciate the overly 'goody-two-shoes' behaviour. You are still an individual after marriage and have your own identity. You don't always have to hold back your opinions and thoughts.

8. Above all else, don't forget to have fun

This is the start of your new life together. Once the wedding day has arrived, there's not much you can do to stop any potential glitch. So let loose and just be the happiest version of you. Be thankful, accepting and positive. It's your special day - a once in a lifetime kind of feeling, enjoy yourself and make memories. 

Well, I hope these small tips will be useful to you. If you have anything else in mind that you would like to share from your personal or drawn experience, we'd be happy to know! Comment below and enlighten us...