Rhiannon Hendricks
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, but with a checklist, you can ensure that everything goes smoothly and you don't forget anything important! From the venue to the attire, there are many aspects to consider. Here are some key things to think about when preparing for your wedding day.
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What You'll Learn
Wedding attire and accessories
Wedding Attire
The wedding dress is undoubtedly the most crucial element for the bride. Choose a dress that fits comfortably, flatters your figure, and aligns with your personal style. Consider whether you prefer a traditional gown or something more unique. Don't forget to select the appropriate undergarments, such as a strapless bra or shapewear, to ensure you feel confident and comfortable throughout the day.
For the groom, selecting a suit or tuxedo that complements the wedding theme and their personality is essential. It is also a good idea to have a backup outfit to change into, especially if the wedding involves outdoor activities or unpredictable weather conditions.
Bridal Accessories
- Shoes: Opt for different pairs of shoes for the ceremony and reception. Choose something comfortable for walking down the aisle and then bring cute heels or flats for dancing at the reception.
- Jewelry: This is your opportunity to wear your favourite pieces, whether they are family heirlooms or new purchases. Consider how your jewelry will complement your dress and overall style.
- Makeup and Haircare Products: Even if you have a professional handling your hair and makeup, bring backup products for touch-ups throughout the day. Don't forget lipstick, powder, hair ties, bobby pins, and any other essentials.
- Undergarments: In addition to a comfortable bra, you may want to consider shapewear to smooth out any lines under your dress.
- Blotting Papers: Blotting papers or sheets are essential for touching up your makeup, especially during summer weddings or if you have oily skin.
- Breath Mints or Mouthwash: Keep your breath fresh for those intimate wedding day moments.
- Double-Sided Tape: This can be handy for quick fashion fixes or ensuring that certain fabric pieces stay in place.
- Small Sewing Kit: A few safety pins, a needle, and some thread can be lifesavers for last-minute wardrobe adjustments.
- Emergency Kit: Prepare a kit with items like stain remover pens, band-aids, deodorant, eye drops, static and wrinkle spray, hydration drink mixes, and pain relievers.
- Sentimental Items: Consider incorporating something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue. It could be a handkerchief, a family heirloom, or any other meaningful item.
Groom's Accessories
- Shoes: Like the bride, the groom should also consider having different pairs of shoes for the ceremony and reception. Comfortable shoes for the ceremony and something more relaxed for dancing are ideal.
- Cufflinks and Tie Clips: These accessories add a polished touch to the groom's attire.
- Watch: A stylish watch can elevate the groom's overall look and also help him keep an eye on the timeline of the day.
- Socks: Opt for a pair of fun or personalised socks that peek out from under the trouser hem.
- Pocket Square: A pocket square can add a pop of colour and elegance to the groom's suit.
- Grooming Kit: Include items like a comb, hair products, deodorant, and cologne to ensure the groom looks and feels his best throughout the day.
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Wedding rings and marriage license
Wedding rings and a marriage license are two of the most important items for your wedding day. Here are some things to keep in mind regarding these essentials:
Wedding Rings:
The wedding rings are a crucial symbol of your commitment to each other. Here are some tips to ensure their safety and capture their beauty:
- Ensure the rings are given to a responsible person for safekeeping. The best man is typically responsible for holding onto the rings during the ceremony.
- If you plan to have photos taken with the rings before the ceremony, communicate this to your photographer, and ensure the rings are returned to the best man before the ceremony begins.
- Consider including the rings in your getting-ready photos. Set them out for the photographer before they arrive so they can capture their beauty and your excitement.
- If you're having an outdoor wedding, be mindful of the elements. Protect your rings from potential damage or loss by keeping them in a secure box or pouch.
Marriage License:
The marriage license is a legal document that authorises your wedding and serves as official recognition of your union. Here are some tips to ensure you don't forget this important document:
- Designate a trusted person, such as the best man or maid of honour, to be responsible for the marriage license on the day of the wedding.
- Ensure the designated person knows to bring the license to the ceremony and keep it safe until it is needed.
- Check the requirements for your specific location, as they may vary. Some places may require additional documents or have specific guidelines for obtaining a marriage license.
- Obtain the license well in advance to avoid last-minute stress. Each location has its own processing time, so plan accordingly.
- Keep the license safe and consider making a copy for your records.
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Wedding venue and decor
Wedding Venue
When choosing a wedding venue, you may opt for an out-of-the-box location, or a more traditional setting. If you're having a small, casual wedding, you might choose an outdoor venue, such as a beach. For a larger wedding, you may prefer an indoor venue with space for hundreds of guests. If you're supplying your own tables and chairs, you'll need to factor in set-up time. Many venues include tables and chairs as standard, but you may need to source them from event vendors if not.
Wedding Decor
The reception is where your guests will spend most of their time, so it makes sense to allocate a large chunk of your decor budget to this area. Tabletop decor is a priority, and you can spend more on gorgeous linens and lighting if you have a high guest count. Candles are a great way to emphasise the romance factor and create an intimate atmosphere.
A wedding arch will be the backdrop for your wedding photos, so consider whether you want a sleek and geometric design, a rustic wooden arch, or a floral-covered archway. You may also want to decorate the aisle with a runner, or get creative with vintage rugs, flower petals, or palm fronds.
For the tables, you'll need a table number on each, so guests can easily find their seats. Every table also needs a centerpiece, which can be small and understated or huge and ornate. You can save money by choosing a budget-friendly centerpiece, such as a candelabra, potted plants, or glass bottles with string lights. If you want to add a unique touch to each place setting, consider personalised cheese plates or laser-cut chargers with your guests' names.
Don't forget to set up a welcome table with a guest book, a card box, and space for guests to leave gifts. You could also add a decorative accent, such as a tablecloth, vases, or lanterns. A signature drink is a great way to add a unique twist to your wedding bar, and you can even have a cute custom sign made to show off your signature drinks.
Checklist
- Wedding arch
- Aisle runner
- Chair decorations
- Table numbers
- Centerpieces
- Tablecloths/table runners
- Chargers/place settings
- Napkins/cocktail napkins
- Glassware
- Silverware
- Guest book
- Welcome/gift table
- Signature drink sign
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Wedding planner and vendors
A wedding planner can be an invaluable asset on your big day. They will be your right-hand person throughout the process, guiding you in all decisions, from selecting a venue to tracking your budget and handling logistics. A good wedding planner will get to know you, your style, and your vision to help personalize your reception and make it feel like you. They will also have an emergency kit on hand to handle any last-minute hiccups.
If you're working with a wedding planner, they will be able to recommend vendors and help you manage them. It's important to have realistic expectations and trust that your vendors will do their part. To help things run smoothly, have your timeline and the numbers for all your vendors on hand. Let your vendors know what is going on if there are any problems.
Your vendors will handle the large-scale items at your reception, such as linens, tables and chairs, and place settings. However, it's the personal details that you choose to add that will make the most impact. For example, lighting is an important detail that many couples forget about. The bulbs and candles you select will ultimately light your perfect venue, make your photos just right, and keep the party going even after the sun sets.
If you're having an outdoor wedding, your vendors should also help you prepare for all kinds of weather.
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Gifts and payments
Gifts
Firstly, you may want to give gifts to your partner and your wedding party. These are usually exchanged on the day of the wedding. You might also want to give welcome gifts to guests at their hotel.
Payments
There are several payments to consider on your wedding day. Firstly, you should ensure you have the funds to pay your vendors and bridal party. It is also customary to tip your vendors, so you should have these tips ready in assigned envelopes.
Other Considerations
It is easy to forget about designating someone to handle your presents, souvenirs, and beverages. Choose a reliable person and let them know what you need them to do beforehand.
Additionally, it is a good idea to prepare an emergency kit with items such as safety pins, a sewing kit, band-aids, and stain remover pens. This can help with any minor aches, pains, and wardrobe malfunctions.
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Frequently asked questions
Some essentials for your wedding day include your wedding attire and accessories, an emergency kit, your wedding rings, and your marriage license.
Your emergency kit should include items like bobby pins, hair styling products, nail polish, breath mints, pain relievers, safety pins, a stain remover, and snacks.
It's important to stay organized and communicate with your partner and wedding planner. Remember to confirm details with your vendors, assemble table decor, and keep track of your marriage license. If your wedding is outdoors, prepare for all kinds of weather.
