The Ultimate Wedding Week & Day Checklist
Your wedding is almost here! As exciting as it is, the week leading up to your big day can be a little overwhelming. No worries! Here’s a fun and comprehensive checklist to help you stay on track, feel prepared, and make sure nothing gets left behind. From the week before to the day-of, we've got you covered.
Week-Before-Wedding Checklist
The final week before the wedding is all about tying up loose ends. Here’s what you should be doing to ensure you’re ready for the big day:
Try on Your Wedding Attire: Make sure your dress or suit still fits perfectly. Don’t forget shoes and accessories!
Confirm Vendor Details: Double-check times, locations, and other important details with your vendors.
Prepare Vendor Tips: Place tips in envelopes and label them for easy distribution.
Pack an Emergency Kit: Include essentials like safety pins, bobby pins, clear nail polish, breath mints, tissues, aspirin, and extra makeup.
Print Your Timeline & Contact Sheet: Share this with your bridal party and key vendors.
Hydrate and Rest: Start drinking plenty of water and try to get good sleep every night.
Morning-of-Wedding Checklist
It’s finally here! The morning of your wedding is all about getting ready and feeling fabulous. Here’s what to remember:
Eat Breakfast: You’ll need the energy, even if you’re feeling nervous!
Wear a Button-Down or Robe: Easy to remove without ruining your hair or makeup.
Stay Hydrated: Keep a water bottle nearby while you’re getting ready.
Emergency Kit on Hand: Make sure your maid of honor or a trusted friend has the emergency kit ready.
Check Vendor Contacts: Have a list of contacts handy in case any last-minute questions arise.
Bride’s Checklist
You’ve been planning this moment forever, and now it’s your turn to shine! Here's what the bride needs to remember:
Dress & Veil: The stars of the show!
Shoes: Bring both your wedding heels and comfy flats for dancing later.
Jewelry & Hair Accessories: Double-check you have everything.
Makeup & Beauty Tools: Lipstick, powder, and any other touch-up items.
Something Old, New, Borrowed, & Blue: Don’t forget this sentimental tradition.
Straws: For sipping water without smudging your lipstick!
Phone Charger: It’s going to be a long day, and you’ll want your phone for some personal snaps.
Groom’s Checklist
It’s your big day, too! Make sure the groom has everything he needs:
Suit or Tuxedo: Double-check that everything fits perfectly.
Shoes & Socks: Clean, polished, and ready to go.
Cufflinks, Watch, and Tie/Bow Tie: The little details count.
Deodorant & Fragrance: Smelling great is key.
Phone Charger: You’ll want to snap a few behind-the-scenes moments too!
Breath Mints: For that first kiss as a married couple!
Bridesmaid Checklist
Your bridesmaids are your ultimate support squad, and they’ve got a few things to keep in mind:
Dress & Shoes: Double-check that their attire is ready to go.
Snacks & Water: Keep the bride fed and hydrated.
Help with the Bride’s Look: Fluff the dress, adjust the veil, and keep her calm.
Assist Guests: Help guests find their way around the venue.
Be Ready for Photos: Make sure they’re looking fabulous and ready for the camera.
Groomsmen Checklist
Just like the bridesmaids, the groomsmen have a few duties to make sure the day runs smoothly:
Suit, Shoes, and Accessories: Check everything fits perfectly.
Help the Groom Stay Calm: Offer support and keep things light.
Assist Guests: Help direct guests and make sure everyone’s comfortable.
Be Ready to Dance: Help get the party started at the reception!
Ceremony Checklist
Here’s what to keep in mind for the ceremony itself:
Rings & Vows: Make sure the best man has the rings and the vows are safely tucked away.
Programs: Have your ceremony programs ready at the entrance.
Entrance Signage: Set up any signs to welcome your guests.
Reserved Seating Markers: Ensure seats for immediate family and bridal party are labeled.
Unity Candle/Other Ceremony Elements: If you have any special elements in your ceremony (like a unity candle), make sure they’re ready.
Aisle Runner: If using, ensure it’s in place before the processional.
Post-Ceremony Checklist
Once the ceremony is done, there’s still plenty to do! Here's what to check off the list after you say "I do":
Receiving Line: If you’re having one, greet your guests and thank them.
Cocktail Hour: Enjoy mingling with your guests while your photographer captures some candid moments.
First Dance & Parent Dances: Make sure everyone knows when it’s time to hit the dance floor.
Toasts & Speeches: Line up the speeches and toasts for the reception.
Bouquet & Garter Toss: If you’re doing these traditions, get ready for some fun!
The Send-Off: Whether you’re leaving through a tunnel of sparklers, bubbles, or confetti, make sure everything is prepped for your grand exit.
Reception Checklist
Once the ceremony is over, it’s time to party! Here's what you'll need:
Table Décor: Menus, place cards, table numbers, and centerpieces should all be set up.
Guest Book & Pens: Ready for your guests to leave you sweet messages.
Photo Booth Props: Fun props add to the entertainment!
Toasting Glasses & Cake Knife: These special items should be ready to go for toasts and cake cutting.
Bathroom Baskets: Stocked with essentials like mints, lotion, and even flip-flops for tired feet.
Leftover Cake Box: Don’t forget to save a slice of that delicious cake for later!
Pre-Wedding Nerves? Here’s How to Stay Calm
Weddings can bring a lot of emotions—nervousness is totally normal! Here’s how to keep calm:
Trust Your Team: You’ve done the planning—now let your vendors and bridal party handle the details. Trust them to bring your vision to life.
Focus on the Moment: Keep reminding yourself of why you’re here—this day is about celebrating your love.
Take Breaks: Take a few moments for yourself throughout the day to breathe and relax.
Eat Something: Don’t skip meals, even if you’re too excited to eat much—staying energized is key.
Share Your Worries: If you’re feeling anxious, talk to your friends or family. They’re there to support you!
Fun Wedding Day Activities for Guests (and Kids!)
Want to keep your guests entertained and create memorable moments? Here are some fun activity ideas for everyone:
Lawn Games: Cornhole, giant Jenga, or mini-golf are always crowd-pleasers.
Photo Booth: With fun props to match your wedding theme.
Kids’ Corner: Set up coloring stations, a piñata, or even a bouncy castle to keep the little ones happy.
Board Games or Karaoke: Perfect for guests who aren’t into dancing but still want to have a blast.
Photo Scavenger Hunt: Give your guests a list of moments to capture on their phones for a fun and interactive activity.
Final Thoughts
With this ultimate wedding checklist in hand, you’ll feel confident and ready for your big day! From the week before to the ceremony and reception, you’ve got every detail covered. Now it’s time to enjoy, have fun, and celebrate with your loved ones. You’ve got this!
