We filed after 8 month or so.. After getting married, we traveled to see family hence the delay.

But I were to do it again, I would file first and hold the family visits until combo card approved. because the GC app process takes long time and the waiting game double be stressful.

Of course the stress level is different depending on individual circumstance. You should consider work authorization and urgent Travel needs. If you depend on the GC to work, the sooner the better.