Being the center of attention

our experts say:

Marsha Brady said it best: If they make you nervous, just imagine 'em in their underwear! You may not go to that extreme when you're walking down the aisle and all eyes are upon you, but you might consider that all those friends, family members and acquaintances are the people who love you most dearly. In other words, forget how many people are watching you and pretend it's an intimate, comfortable crowd.

Just by acknowledging that you're someone who's bound to get "stage fright," you've already done worlds of good toward minimizing the possibility on your wedding day. The truth is, if you're prepared for it you can do plenty to ease your nervousness. For starters, be sure to eat solidly before walking down the aisle so you don't feel faint or light-headed. Choose carbohydrates (bread, cereal, pasta, rice, fruit, veggies), not fatty foods or foods that are rough on your stomach (beans, tomato sauce, etc.). Also, drink water so you stay hydrated (but do remember to visit the ladies' room before slipping on your gown!). You'll be amazed at how the right fuel can make you feel calm, strong and confident.

Proper breathing -- and we mean deep, controlled, purposeful breathing -- can also go a long way toward helping you play it cool. Visualize the breaths starting at your belly button, running up your chest and rolling off the tip of your tongue. You might also concentrate on counting your steps down the aisle or keeping time with the beat of the processional music. Having a focus should help you get to the altar without breaking a sweat.

Believe it or not, simply rehearsing the ceremony the day before will surely take some of the pressure off. Once you've done a run-through (do it at the ceremony site with all the key players in attendance), you'll be in a much better position to know what to expect.

We always tell brides to tuck a tissue inside the bridal bouquet. You'd be amazed at how many women cry as they exchange vows -- partly out of joy, partly out of sheer nervousness (your strong emotion, incidentally, might even come out as laughter!). Don't try to stifle your tears, just know that you have a hankie on hand to handle them.

Finally, we suggest you be honest and tell your groom that you're worried about getting nervous in front of the crowd. Since he's surely a person who puts you at ease, maybe you could devise a "signal" -- a wink, gesture or word -- between the two of you that helps put you at ease.

The bottom line: Who doesn't feel some degree of nervousness as she walks down the aisle? You know what that makes you? A bride!

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