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Our real bride shares her personal program for shedding the weight before the big day.

"Reception hall—check. Photographer—check. Dress—DRESS! —Oh my God, I have to lose like 50 pounds! "

My train of thought from a few weeks ago probably mirrored that of so many other brides-to-be. So, I decided to take drastic measures by formulating a rigorous diet and exercise plan that I labeled "operation bridal boot camp." I devised strict meal plans and exercise schedules—and stopped following them all within the first week. After my first failed attempt, I decided to take a deep breath and come up with some realistic goals—ambushing myself with overzealous diet and fitness plans was obviously not the way to go. So I sat down and thought of what I could do to get in shape for my Big Day without beating myself up too much.

Since my wedding isn't until November, I do have the luxury of time and want to take things slow. I've never really dieted and successfully lost weight, so I've been pacing myself and slowly added healthy habits into my day-to-day life. This is what is working for me so far:

1. I gave up one thing I absolutely love.

I love anything starchy! Baguettes, bagels, French bread—white bread is nothing short of holy to me. But a sacrifice has to be made and since it's my biggest vice, I decided white bread would be it. I switched to wheat at first, but I soon found that I actually liked seven-grain or multigrain better. If you have one ultra favorite high-calorie or fattening food, give it up and replace it with something that's almost as satisfying but much more healthy.

2. I learned what types of food I could live without.

I don't have a huge sweet tooth, so I decided I could give that up without being too miserable. Figure out what are some of the unhealthiest foods that you eat but can live without, and promptly toss them out of your life.

3. I leave room for the good stuff.

It's hard to count calories while you're cake testing, menu tasting or attending the various pre-wedding events your friends and family have thrown in your honor. Factor that in during your weekly calorie roundup and eat mindfully the rest of the time.

4. I sweat 3–5 times a week.

I hate exercise machines. I hate the treadmill, the elliptical, the stationary bike—none of it appeals to me. What I do love is dancing, so I take dance classes at my gym three to four times a week. Reggae, hip-hop, salsa, belly dancing—I like to mix it up! Choose a type of exercise that you enjoy.

5. I try to live healthy all around.

Incorporate at least one fruit or veggie per meal. Try to eat breakfast. Be as active as possible—following all this is a gradual process and it takes time to fully implement it into your lifestyle. The important thing is to set your new healthy living plan at your own pace, so that you feel good while doing it.

Now that I've set these guidelines—it's time for me to actually follow them without cheating (too much)! Feel free to take as much inspiration from my guidelines as possible. Personalizing your diet and fitness plans is the best way to become a healthy, wealthy and blushing new bride!

Next up—finding all the right wedding vendors! Find out what the best possible strategies are for finding the good photographers, florists, makeup artists, etc.