Prostock-Studio / iStock
The months leading up to your wedding will be filled with making appointments, arrangements, and mind-bending decisions, but it's the last-minute scrambling that can be the most nerve-wracking! Busy with the bigger arrangements like coordinating vendors, decor, and attire, brides tend to overlook smaller details and handy necessities that are often crucial before, during, and after the wedding.
We've compiled a wedding checklist of those not-so-obvious things you'll need to remember to ensure you're completely covered on your big day.
Set up a joint bank account before your big day, and you'll both face much less hassle down the line. If you have the time, arrange auto-payments for your household expenses, such as your rent or mortgage, utility costs, car payments, groceries, and vacation/leisure. After the honeymoon, you can both relax without worrying about where your money is going, and we'd consider that a major bonus.
Make final confirmations of your appointments with your vendors. Just because you booked the entertainment a month ago, it doesn't mean that something hasn't come up.
The last thing you want is for catering or your florist to not show up on the big day, so make one last round of phone calls and confirm the details down to a tee.
You'll likely be photographed during this time and will want to ditch the ragged old go-to T-shirt. We've seen too many beautiful brides boasting stunning smiles in last weekend's sweatpants, but make it a day to remember with a stylish look while you're getting pampered.
It doesn't have to be fancy, but a chic set, cozy robe, or romantic dress can make all the difference when you look back at the photos.
Prepare tip envelopes for designated vendors to make your life easier at the end of the wedding night. Since costs and percentages vary widely, you don't want to be scrambling for extra cash at the last moment.
This simple step leaves a positive impression on vendors while ensuring that everyone receives their fair share.
Arrange for a sweet handwritten note to be delivered to your betrothed before the ceremony. Romantic and unexpected, this is what your big day was designed for.
Whether you go into detail or just scribble a few simple words, there's something special about a secret note exchanged between lovers, especially during the hectic moments to come.
Have snacks on hand for your bridal party between the ceremony and reception to keep the stomach rumbles to a minimum. Once things are in order, don't underestimate how difficult it can be to hunt down snacks and beverages for your entire brigade, even with a couple of hours to spare.
Instead of having your BFF chase down the snack cart or dial a delivery service last minute, have an assortment of tasty treats ready to go in the fridge or pre-ordered.
Ditch the cell phone! Give it to your maid of honour to screen for imperative texts and calls only. Instead, savour the moment for exactly what is—the sights, the sounds, the smells; the last thing you want is distractions!
Too many of us are attached to our phones these days, but if there's ever a time to live in the moment, it's today.
Stash some breath mints and tissues in your clutch — these will come in handy throughout the day. They don't take up much space, so they're easy to prepare and have on hand before your wedding arrives.
An added bonus? They act as handy nerve-relievers leading up to those once-in-a-lifetime segments.
Have a pair of comfy flats or flip-flops on hand at your reception venue so you can dance the night away. If you like, get creative and choose a cozy pair that coordinates with your gown, but always prioritize comfort.
After some two-stepping and a conga line, this is one suggestion you'll definitely be thanking us for.
Have a makeup re-touching kit handy to keep those tear-streamed cheeks in check and broken nails filed! Complete the kit with safety pins, bobby pins, and bandages. You can pass it off to your MOH, but get it ready.
When the waterworks are overwhelming, this kit will come in handy more than you initially think. Not only that, but pins are one of the most frequently requested items from bridesmaids, and this way, all the girls will be covered.
Offer floral arrangements and décor to your guests at the end of the night so they don't go to waste. Don't let these stunning, once-in-a-lifetime items get tossed.
Your guests no doubt put a lot of effort into your wedding and reception, so this is an excellent way to show your appreciation.
Designate someone to bring all of your stuff home at the reception's end so you can enjoy a relaxing first night with your new husband.
There's a lot to sort through, and this is the last thing you'll want to do as a newlywed. Ensure that you have a reliable person to handle the details so the two of you can savour these early minutes together as Mr. and Mrs.
Make sure all items that need to be returned to your vendors have been. From your wedding planner to your photographer and catering staff, ensure that everything is in its place and that every vendor has the returned materials you agreed upon.
Vendors are busy people handling dozens of weddings at a time, so things can easily get lost in the shuffle. Rather than facing late fees or chasing them down post-ceremony, sort these details out in advance.
Check gift cards for amounts and write on them with a Sharpie, and make a deposit in your joint account before you leave for your honeymoon. We've seen couples forget about this and lose extra cash for their special trip, or, worse still, forget who gave them these generous gifts.
Covering this one simple detail will make writing thank you cards easier and also make a memorable first deposit for you as a couple.
Keep track of your marriage licence. You'll need this in order to obtain your marriage certificate and change your name. If you lose it, you're dealing with a long process.
Keep the document in a safe location so you have an eye on it at all times and can handle the logistics more easily when you return from the honeymoon.
Get our Newsletter
Stay up-to-date with wedding trends, deals and offers.
The Latest
See MoreEditors Picks