Last week, we spoke about the wedding count down beginning at least a year before the event. The point of that being to ensure that there is time to make informed choices. It’s also vital not to wait too long, as your chosen suppliers may be snapped up by other people.
You also want to make sure you’re not too anxious and stressed, so by going at it all gently but consistently, you will ensure the ground is covered.
Assuming you’re still on schedule, what else needs to be done, as the big day approaches?
One month before
- Confirm your bookings with all your suppliers
- Collect your wedding rings
- Arrange your final dress fitting
- Hold final fittings for your bridesmaids/pageboys/flower-girls
- Write and practise your wedding vows (if yours is a bespoke civil ceremony) as well as any speeches
- Have a consultation with your photographer so you can ensure your needs are met
- Have a hair and make-up trial run
- Finalise the guest list and seating plan
- Confirm dietary needs with your caterer
- Order currency for your honeymoon
One week before
- Hold a wedding rehearsal
- Compile timings for the day and ensure the relevant people have this (planner, photographer, Best Man, caterer, etc.)
- Check again that outfits are in order
- Pack for your honeymoon
- Assemble an emergency kit for the day (make-up, safety-pins, Paracetamol, sewing kit, plasters)
The eve
- Give the ushers the Order of Service
- Make sure the venue has table plan, place cards, guest book and pens, and, if relevant, decorations
- Collect hired suits/dresses
- Give rings and supplier details to the Best Man
- Lay out your wedding dress, lingerie, accessories etc.
- Get an early night (but set the alarm)!
The day itself
- Allow around six hours to prepare yourself
- Groom and Best Man should arrive at the venue about 30 minutes early
- Check the Best Man has the rings and his speech, messages, and anything else you may ask him to look after for you
If you do manage to achieve all this within the time span suggested, you won’t have to worry at all about arrangements. Instead, you can relax and really enjoy your day. You’ll have deserved it!