Franklin Dean
There's a lot to think about after your wedding day, from the honeymoon to thank-you notes and even legalities like name changes. It's easy to forget about the important tasks that need to be done after the big day, from thanking guests and vendors to dealing with leftover flowers and favours. While it's a magical time, it can also be chaotic, so it's a good idea to have a checklist to help you navigate the post-wedding to-dos.
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What You'll Learn
Write thank-you cards to your guests and vendors
Writing thank-you cards to your guests and vendors is an important task to complete after your wedding. It is a way to show your appreciation and gratitude to those who shared your special day and supported you. It is also a way to tie up loose ends before starting your new life as a married couple.
It is best to send out thank-you cards as early as one week after the wedding, and ideally before your one-month anniversary. However, some etiquette experts say you have up to six months, or even a year, to send them. The faster you get them done and sent out, the happier you’ll be.
Thank-you cards should be handwritten as this shows you took the time to write a thoughtful, personal message for each guest. It is a good idea to buy good tools that get you excited to write, such as a high-quality pen and stationery that matches your wedding theme. You can also order customised stationery in the same style as your wedding invitations, with a matching motif, monogram, or logo.
When it comes to what to write, there are three core components:
- Say "thank you"
- Name the gift
- Say something about the gift
You don't have to write a novel for each person. Simply express your gratitude, and if you received a gift of money, it is now common to write the amount in the card to confirm you received the correct amount. If you didn't love the gift, you can still find something positive to say.
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Clean and preserve your wedding attire
It is important to clean and preserve your wedding attire, especially if you want to pass it down to a loved one or repurpose it in the future. Wedding attire is often the most expensive piece of clothing one will ever own, and it is a special keepsake.
Wedding Dresses
Wedding dress preservation is a special cleaning and packaging process that ensures the garment will retain its quality for years to come. It is not as simple as dry cleaning and storing the dress in a box. The preservation process begins with a specialist's assessment, who will create a unique treatment plan according to the dress fabric, stitching, and details.
Before cleaning, carefully remove any leaves or twigs that may have gotten stuck to the dress during your wedding. When choosing a dry cleaner, opt for one that uses a gentle and pure solvent, as other solvents may contain impurities that can leave a strange smell on your dress. Wedding dress preservation should only be undertaken by a professional, so be sure to do your research and read up on reviews.
The cost of preserving a wedding dress can vary depending on several factors, such as the fabric, length, and embellishments. Expect to pay more for delicate fabrics like silk, as the cleaning process is more involved. The average price ranges from $250 to $700, but prices can go up to $1,000 depending on your location.
Wedding Suits
Wedding suits are also a significant investment and should be properly cared for. It is best to leave the cleaning to professional dry cleaners, who will have the knowledge and experience to clean the suit without damaging it and remove any tough stains. Avoid harsh chemicals when cleaning the suit, as they can cause irreversible damage. Opt for organic dry cleaning solutions that are gentler on the fabric.
When storing your suit, hang it in a place with proper airflow to prevent wrinkles and preserve the fabric. Avoid storing it in humid areas, as this can lead to mold and mildew growth. If you need to store the suit for an extended period, consider using a cedar chest, as the natural oils in the wood will help repel insects.
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File your marriage license and get your marriage certificate
A marriage license legally permits you to marry, while a marriage certificate proves that you are married. The process of obtaining these documents may vary depending on your location, so it is essential to refer to the specific requirements of your state or country. Here is a general guide on how to file your marriage license and obtain your marriage certificate:
Understand the Requirements:
Before applying for a marriage license, familiarize yourself with the necessary requirements. In most places, both parties must provide valid photo identification, such as driver's licenses, passports, or other government-issued IDs. Additionally, you may need to provide proof of your Social Security number or Tax ID. If either party was previously married, proof of the previous marriage's dissolution, such as a death or divorce certificate, may also be required.
Apply for the Marriage License:
Visit the appropriate government office, such as the Marriage License Department or the vital records office, to apply for your marriage license. In some locations, walk-ins are accepted, while others may require an appointment. Bring all the necessary documentation, including identification and any required supporting documents. There may be a fee associated with obtaining the marriage license, so be prepared to pay using the accepted payment methods.
Complete the Marriage Ceremony:
After obtaining your marriage license, you can proceed with your marriage ceremony. Ensure that your marriage ceremony adheres to any legal requirements, such as having witnesses present and an authorized officiant.
Sign and Return the Marriage License:
Following the marriage ceremony, the newly married couple and witnesses may need to sign the marriage license. In some jurisdictions, this signed license must be returned to the issuing office within a specified timeframe, such as 10 days.
Obtain Your Marriage Certificate:
Once your signed marriage license is received and processed by the relevant government office, you can obtain your official marriage certificate. Contact the office where you submitted your marriage license to inquire about the process and any associated fees. They will provide instructions on how to obtain your marriage certificate, which may include online, mail, or in-person options.
Remember to consider any time constraints associated with your marriage license and certificate. Marriage licenses typically have an expiration date, after which they become invalid. Additionally, there may be specific timelines for returning the signed license and obtaining your marriage certificate.
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Plan your honeymoon
Planning your honeymoon is an exciting part of the wedding process. Here are some things to consider when planning your honeymoon:
Timing
Some couples prefer to leave for their honeymoon the day after the wedding to continue the happy mood and excitement of the wedding. However, this can be exhausting, especially if you barely slept the night before. It is also a lot of work to pack for your honeymoon while dealing with last-minute wedding preparations. Many couples recommend waiting at least a day or two after the wedding to unwind and spend time with family and friends before leaving for the honeymoon. This can also give you time to work, unpack, write thank-you notes, and re-pack. Some couples opt for a "mini-moon" close to home before their official honeymoon, to have a more relaxed start to their married life.
Budget
Your budget will be a significant factor in determining your honeymoon destination. If you are planning an expensive honeymoon, you may want to wait a few months to save up or plan a less costly mini-moon first. Consider looking for deals and planning your honeymoon during the off-season to save money.
Destination
When choosing your honeymoon destination, consider the type of experience you want. Do you prefer relaxing on a beach or being active and sightseeing? Do you want a sunny, warm location, or are you interested in fall and winter destinations? You can also plan your honeymoon around events or activities you want to do together, such as seeing your favourite bands perform.
Details
Once you have chosen your destination, start planning the details of your trip, including flights, accommodation, transportation, and activities. If you are travelling soon after your wedding, you may want to pack for your honeymoon in advance to reduce stress. Don't forget to bring some money for excursions or extra spending.
Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to planning your honeymoon. Do what works best for you and your partner and don't be afraid to be creative!
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Change your name on legal documents
Changing your name on your legal documents after getting married is a process that can be time-consuming, but it's not too complicated. Here's a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process efficiently:
Step 1: Obtain a Marriage Certificate
Firstly, ensure that you have a certified copy of your marriage certificate. This is a crucial document that serves as proof of your marriage and will be required for the name change process. Contact the relevant local government office to obtain this certificate, which typically takes two to three weeks to arrive by mail after your wedding. It is recommended to purchase at least two copies to expedite the name change process and avoid paying multiple processing fees.
Step 2: Contact Relevant Government Agencies
The process for changing your name varies by state, so it is essential to contact the relevant government agencies to understand the specific requirements. In general, you will need to start by notifying the Social Security Administration (SSA) of your name change. The SSA acts as the central database for all other government agencies, so updating your information with them first is crucial. You can do this by filling out an application for a new Social Security card, either online or in person at your local SSA office.
Step 3: Update Other Documents and Records
Once you have updated your name with the SSA, you can proceed to change your name on other legal documents and records. This includes your driver's license, passport, birth certificate, and voter registration. The process for each of these documents may vary, so be sure to check the specific requirements for each. Additionally, don't forget to update your name with other important entities, such as your bank, employer, insurance providers, and any other organizations where your name needs to be changed.
Step 4: Stay Organized and Patient
Changing your name on all your legal documents can be a lengthy process, so it's important to stay organized and patient. Keep track of which documents you have updated and which ones still need to be processed. It is common for this process to take a few months, and sometimes even longer, so don't get discouraged if it takes some time.
Additional Tips:
- If you have travel reservations under your maiden name, you can still initiate the name change process. Just ensure that the name on your travel ID, such as your driver's license or passport, matches the name on your reservation.
- There is no deadline for changing your name after marriage. As long as you have your marriage certificate, you can go through the name change process at any time.
- Services like MissNowMrs offer digital files and assistance with name change applications for various documents, which can make the process smoother and less overwhelming.
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Frequently asked questions
Many couples go to a bar or restaurant after their wedding. Some couples even host an after-party at a bar or in their hotel suite. You could also go bar-hopping or plan a weekend trip or staycation to spend more time with out-of-town guests and family.
It's important to obtain a certified copy of your marriage certificate and keep it safe. You should also write and send thank-you cards to your guests and vendors. If you're planning on changing your name, you'll need to file the necessary paperwork and update your official records. Additionally, you should review and pay any remaining invoices and compare insurance benefits with your spouse.
You can preserve your wedding dress and bouquet as keepsakes. You can also give away or recycle leftover flowers, and put wedding favours to good use. If you want to follow tradition, ask your caterer to wrap a slice or the top tier of your wedding cake, and store it in your freezer to eat on your first anniversary.
