You’ve planned and labored for a very long time— slowly and meticulously putting together all the pieces for your wedding day. Where you were a year-out, chances are you felt like you had all the time in the world to prepare. Even 3-months ago, you probably told a few of your closest friends and family that you were “ready for it to happen, already!”
But if you’re like most brides, the month and especially the week of your wedding, everything seems to be happening quite quickly.
While there’s no perfect solution to keep you calm, cool, collected, and emotionally ready for what’s to come, there are a few essential to-dos that are bound to keep you sane and relaxed in the days leading up to the wedding.
Here are 5 things every bride should do the week of your wedding.
Create a *Very* Detailed Schedule
Play it safe by outlining a schedule for your last week as a single lady. Note everything from when you plan to get your nails done, to when you’re guests are arriving and when you expect vendors the day of the wedding.
Use Microsoft Excel or a Google Spreadsheet to keep track of the schedule. Better yet, share the document with those closest to you, such as your parents, bridesmaids, wedding coordinator, and even your photographer. It may seem like overkill, but being prepared is half the battle. Plus, you’ll keep everyone on the same page
Confirm Details with Vendors
Speaking of vendors, you’ve probably been losing some sleep thinking about whether your ceremony musician is going to show up on time or if the catering menu is sufficient for the crowd.
To help ease your mind, either you or your coordinator should reach out to every one of your vendors. Confirm payments made/received (if applicable), expected time of arrival, and tie-up any loose ends such as reporting the final number of guests and requesting any last-minute items.
Check Out Your Dress
Depending on where you purchased your wedding dress, you may be able to pick it up a week or so before your wedding. If you’re given this option, I highly suggest taking them up on the offer! That way, your fiance is less likely to sneak a peek and you also won’t be tempted to try on the dress.
About a week before the wedding, check your dress over for snags. Then, set aside all your accessories, including shoes, veil, hair pieces, and even undergarments.
When it’s “go-time” (24 hours before the event), use a handheld steamer to ensure your gown is wrinkle-free.
Plan Transportation
I can’t tell you how many weddings I’ve attended where transportation is an issue—and I’m not talking about the guests. Many couples have planned transit to the wedding site, but some simply forget about transportation back home after the guests have all gone home.
Instead of having to shove into the back of your Great Aunt Marge’s Buick (yes, it’s happened!), it’s best to hire a limo, transport service, or even recruit a friend or family member to take you and your spouse back home (or wherever it is you’re going).
The week of your wedding, confirm and then reconfirm your transportation.
Pamper Yourself
Let’s face it, there’s a lot going on in the next seven days. There will be times when you feel the weight of the world and other times when you’re completely zen. Of course, it’s best to be in the zen mode as much as possible. To help with this, keep these words in mind: Treat Yourself.
Yes, pamper is the word of the week! Schedule a massage, get your nails done, and when you get tired, take a nap. Whether you’re an avid yogi, a frequent mediator, or just enjoy sipping on a cocktail surrounded by friends, spend some time in your “safe zone” every day in the week leading up to your wedding. You not only deserve it, but you’ll thank yourself for it later.
You’re bound to be busy during the week leading up to your wedding. To help manage all those “feels”, focus on these five essential to-dos. Don’t worry, you’ve got this!