Dear Annie: My sister can’t stop talking about her wedding
Dear Annie: My sister, “Laura,” and I have always been close, but ever since she got engaged, there’s been a bit of a distance. She’s constantly busy with wedding planning, and when we do talk, all she wants to discuss is flowers, seating charts or her bachelorette party.
I’m happy for her, but at a certain point it feels like she has forgotten that I have problems and things to discuss, too. The world doesn’t revolve around her wedding!
The final straw came last week when I asked if we were still on to go to the farmer’s market like we had planned. Laura laughed and said, “I don’t have time for that right now.” I get that weddings are stressful, but it feels like I’m no longer important in her life.
I want to support her, but I also want to address how I feel without adding to her stress. How do I talk to her about this without sounding selfish? – Sad Sister
Dear Sad Sister: Weddings can be all-consuming, especially for the bride, but luckily, this season won’t last forever. Try to manage your expectations of your sister for this wedding planning phase; her tunnel vision doesn’t mean that your relationship isn’t important to her. Being patient and supportive now will strengthen your bond once the wedding frenzy is old news.
That said, it’s always better to communicate your feelings rather than to let them turn into resentment. If your sister’s behavior persists and continues to bother you, explain calmly that you miss spending quality time with her.
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“How Can I Forgive My Cheating Partner?” is out now! Annie Lane’s second anthology — featuring favorite columns on marriage, infidelity, communication and reconciliation — is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit Creators Publishing for more information. Send your questions for Annie Lane to [email protected].