30-5 Minute Rule – A Simple Way to Keep Your Wedding Planning on Track
Planning a wedding can feel like a mountain of to‑do lists. One trick that cuts the stress is the 30‑5 minute rule. It’s easy: you give yourself 30 minutes to work on a task, and you break that time into five‑minute chunks. When the clock hits five minutes, you pause, check your progress, and decide if you need to keep going or switch to something else.
This little timer hack stops you from sinking into endless details. It also keeps momentum high, because you’re constantly moving forward. Whether you’re choosing veils, ordering flowers, or finalising a guest list, the 30‑5 minute rule can make each step feel doable.
How the Rule Works
First, pick a specific task – for example, “compare veil fabrics.” Set a kitchen timer, phone alarm, or app for 30 minutes. When the timer starts, work straight at that task. After the first five minutes, stop, note what you’ve learned, and ask yourself: “Do I need more time, or can I move on?” If you need more, reset another five‑minute block. If not, close that task and switch.
The rule forces you to stay focused for short bursts, which is easier than a vague “work on it all day.” It also gives you frequent check‑ins, so you never waste time on something that isn’t moving forward.
Tips to Use It for Your Wedding Planning
1. List Your Tasks First – Write down everything you need to do, from veil fittings to vendor contracts. Having a clear list lets you pick the next 30‑minute slot quickly.
2. Keep Supplies Handy – If you’re comparing swatches, have all the fabric samples in one place. That way you don’t waste a five‑minute break looking for something.
3. Use a Dedicated Timer – A simple phone timer works, but a visual timer (like a sand timer) can make the five‑minute breaks feel more concrete.
4. Reward Small Wins – After you finish a set of five‑minute blocks, treat yourself to a coffee break or a quick scroll through wedding inspiration boards. It keeps morale up.
5. Combine with the “One‑Thing‑At‑A‑Time” Mindset – The rule works best when you focus on one specific piece, like “choose veil length,” instead of “plan the whole wedding.”
Trying the 30‑5 minute rule on a few tasks this week will show you how fast you can move. You’ll notice you finish decisions quicker, and you won’t feel stuck in endless research.
Remember, the goal isn’t to rush every choice. It’s to give yourself structure so you stay productive without burning out. When the big day arrives, you’ll have a veil that fits, a budget that’s under control, and more peace of mind.
If you’re curious about other time‑saving tricks, check out our blog posts on budgeting, RSVP timelines, and wedding photography costs. Each one offers practical steps you can slot into the 30‑5 minute rhythm.
