Deborah Chan
Planning a wedding can be stressful, but staying organized is key. In the week leading up to the wedding, it's important to finalize the details with your vendors and wedding party, confirm guest counts with your venue and/or caterer, and create a day-of itinerary to ensure everyone knows where to be and when. It's also a good time to prioritize self-care and relaxation, whether that's through a spa treatment, a mani-pedi, or simply getting a good night's sleep. The night before the wedding, be sure to pack your wedding attire and any other essentials, confirm arrival times with your vendors, and give the wedding rings to your maid of honor or best man. Most importantly, remember to take some time to reflect on the reason for the celebration: your love for your partner and the life you're building together.
Things to do before your wedding:
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Get a marriage license | Know where to go, what to bring, how much it'll cost, how long it'll take, and how long it'll last. Some states require a minimum "waiting period" between the time you pick up your license and the wedding. |
| Wedding dress fittings | The first fitting should be 2-3 months after ordering, and the second fitting should be about 6 weeks before the wedding. |
| Purchase undergarments | Wait until after the first fitting to know what type of undergarments are required. |
| Wedding invitations | Order enough to account for mistakes, ensure they arrive on time, set up a system to record RSVP replies, and confirm all addresses and spelling. The theme of the invites should match the wedding's vibe. |
| Finalize food | After a tasting, you can finalize the caterer. |
| Book a photographer | Most photographers include a session in your package. |
| Block out rooms for guests | Secure a discounted rate for guests and put the URL on save-the-dates. |
| Wedding music | Book a band or DJ. |
| Hair and makeup | Avoid fake tan and new products. |
| Wedding rings | Give the rings to the maid of honor or best man, or pack them yourself. |
| Wedding day emergency kit | Pack essentials like phone chargers, wallets, medicines, etc. |
| Final vendor payments | Give checks to a family member or friend to deliver. |
| Confirm arrival times | Contact vendors to confirm arrival times and any other details. |
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What You'll Learn
Get a marriage license
Getting a marriage license is an important step in the wedding planning process. Here are some detailed instructions to help you navigate this task:
Firstly, find out where to go to obtain your marriage license. This may be at a local government office, such as a county clerk's office, and it is advisable to check their website or give them a call to confirm their location and opening hours. Knowing the cost, processing time, and validity period of the license is also essential. Some states have a minimum "waiting period" between obtaining the license and the wedding, which can be anything from 24 to 72 hours, so it is crucial not to leave this task until the last minute.
Once you know where to go, gather the necessary documents. You will typically need valid photo identification, such as a driver's license or passport, and proof of any previous name changes, such as a certified copy of your marriage certificate or court order. If either partner was previously married, a divorce certificate or death certificate may also be required. It is important to check the specific requirements of your local office, as they may vary.
On the day, both members of the couple must be present when applying for the marriage license. Some states may require witnesses to be present as well, so it is essential to check this in advance. At the office, you will need to provide the required documentation and fill out an application form. The form will likely ask for personal information such as your full name, date of birth, address, and social security number. Again, the specific details may vary depending on your location, so be sure to check beforehand to ensure you have all the necessary information.
After submitting your application and paying the associated fee, you will typically receive your marriage license immediately or within a few days. Be sure to check the expiration date of the license, as they usually have a validity period of around 60 to 90 days. This means you shouldn't apply too far in advance, but also keep in mind any mandatory "waiting periods" that may be in place.
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Finalise the food
Finalising the food is a crucial aspect of wedding planning, ensuring that your guests are well-fed and satisfied. Here are some detailed instructions and considerations to help you finalise the food choices for your big day:
Choose a Catering Style
Decide on the catering style that aligns with your wedding theme and budget. You could opt for a formal, plated dinner service or a more casual buffet-style meal. If you're considering a non-traditional approach, a food truck or family-style dinner at your favourite restaurant could be unique and memorable options.
Select a Caterer
Research and select a caterer with a good reputation and a menu that appeals to you and your guests. It is essential to choose a caterer who can accommodate any special dietary requirements, allergies, or restrictions your guests may have. Conduct a tasting to experience their food and service quality first-hand. This will help you finalise your decision and understand their offerings.
Finalise the Menu
Work closely with your chosen caterer to finalise the menu, selecting dishes that will tantalise your guests' taste buds. Consider the seasonality of ingredients to ensure fresh and flavourful options. Don't be afraid to make special requests or customise the menu to reflect your personal preferences and cultural traditions.
Confirm Headcount and Dietary Restrictions
Provide your caterer with an accurate final headcount to ensure they prepare enough food. Communicate any dietary restrictions or allergies among your guests to accommodate their needs. It is also helpful to confirm the number of tables and seating arrangements with your venue, rentals company, florist, and caterer to ensure a seamless dining experience.
Create a Timeline for the Meal
Discuss and create a timeline for the meal service with your caterer and wedding planner. Decide on the timing for each course or buffet options to ensure a smooth flow during the reception. Consider any cultural or traditional rituals that may be incorporated into the meal, and allow time for speeches, toasts, or performances.
Prepare Emergency Kits and Snacks
In addition to finalising the main meal, consider creating wedding day emergency kits with snacks, beauty supplies, and over-the-counter medicines. These kits can be lifesavers if unexpected hunger pangs or minor ailments arise during the celebration.
Remember to enjoy the process of finalising the food for your wedding. It's an essential aspect of your guests' experience, and a well-fed guest is a happy guest!
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Prepare an emergency kit
Preparing an emergency kit is a crucial step in wedding planning. This kit will ensure you are ready for any last-minute hiccups or minor inconveniences. While you may appoint this task to your maid of honour or best man, it is always a good idea to be prepared and know what to include in the kit.
First, you will want to include some beauty supplies and toiletries. This could be deodorant, nail polish, a nail file, or any other makeup essentials. You may also want to include some hair supplies, such as hair ties, bobby pins, a brush, or a comb. It is also a good idea to include some basic first aid items, such as over-the-counter medicines, painkillers, and plasters.
Next, you may want to consider adding some practical items to your kit. For example, you could include a small sewing kit for any last-minute repairs, or tape, which always comes in handy. You could also add some snacks to keep your energy up, as well as some water or drinks. It is also a good idea to include some tech supplies, such as a portable charger, and any relevant chargers for your devices.
Lastly, don't forget to include the rings! While this may seem obvious, it is easy to forget, so be sure to add them to your emergency kit checklist.
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Confirm arrival times
Confirming arrival times is an important part of the final preparations for your wedding. It is essential to be organised and ensure that everyone who needs to be present is clear on when they need to arrive.
First, you should confirm arrival times with all your vendors. This includes the photographer, videographer, band, DJ, ceremony musicians, caterer, stationer, calligrapher, florist, and wedding venue staff. You should also ensure that they have the venue's contact information and details of parking and entry. It is also a good idea to confirm the arrival time of the bride and bridal party for hair and makeup.
You should also communicate arrival times with your wedding party and family members. Send them a timeline of the day, including any important times such as when they need to be ready for hair and makeup, and when they need to arrive at the venue. It is a good idea to send this timeline 7-10 days before the wedding, as any earlier and they may forget or lose the information.
Finally, it is important to ensure that you, the happy couple, arrive on time. Pack all your essential items, such as your phone charger, wallet, and rings, the night before. You should also create an emergency kit with items such as snacks, beauty supplies, tape, and over-the-counter medicines. If you are staying elsewhere the night before, be sure to pack a bag for your wedding night and honeymoon, and plan how your luggage will get to the hotel.
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Manage your stress
Managing your stress is an important part of preparing for your wedding. Here are some tips to help you stay calm and relaxed in the lead-up to your big day:
Create a Checklist
Staying organized is crucial to managing stress. Create a detailed checklist of everything you need to do and bring to the venue. Go over the checklist twice or have someone else review it to ensure nothing is missed. This will help you feel more confident and in control.
Finalize Details
In the week before the wedding, confirm all the details with your vendors and wedding party. Share the timeline and any updates with them, so everyone knows where to be and when. This includes confirming arrival times, finalizing the wedding timeline, and ensuring your vendors have what they need, such as your preferred readings, shot list, or playlist.
Self-Care and Relaxation
Taking care of yourself is essential for stress management. Practice self-care and relaxation techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing. Get plenty of sleep in the nights leading up to the wedding, especially the night before. Eat nutritious meals, stay hydrated, and avoid excessive alcohol consumption to keep your body and mind energized and healthy.
Beauty and Grooming
Avoid trying new beauty treatments or products close to the wedding. Stick to your regular skincare routine and give your skin some extra TLC, such as a hydrating face mask. If you're considering teeth realignment or any injectable treatments, plan well in advance to allow for adjustments and to ensure you're happy with the results.
Leisure Activities
Engage in activities that bring you joy and help you unwind. Spend quality time with your partner, write them a love letter, or enjoy a cozy night with your bridal crew. Doing something relaxing, such as watching a good TV show, can help take your mind off any worries and alleviate stress.
Remember, it's important to focus on the reason for the celebration—the love you share with your partner and the life you will build together. By staying organized, practicing self-care, and taking time to relax, you can effectively manage your stress and fully enjoy your wedding day.
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Frequently asked questions
It is important to not leave anything to the last minute. Make sure you have sent the timeline for the day to your bridal party and family so they know what is expected of them. You should also try to get a good night's sleep and avoid alcohol to ensure you are well-rested and not dehydrated for your big day.
The day before your wedding is a great time to relax and spend time with your bridal party and family. You should also make sure you are packed and ready to go, and that you have all the essentials, including an emergency kit.
You should pack your wedding attire, including shoes, accessories, and undergarments. It is also a good idea to bring a change of clothes and shoes. Don't forget your engagement and wedding rings!
The night before your wedding, you should eat a nutritious meal and get some rest. You can also do some extra skincare, such as a hydrating face mask, and write your vows or a love letter to your future spouse.
In the week before your wedding, you should avoid trying any new beauty products or treatments that could irritate your skin. You should also avoid drinking alcohol in excess, as it could leave you dehydrated or hungover on your wedding day.
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