You’ve finally made it — it’s the week before your wedding. But you’re still in for some additional wedding planning fun before you confirm your nuptials. As you count down to saying “I do,” get these important “to-dos” scratched off your wedding checklist:
1. Get Your Marriage License
If you haven’t already, make sure you get this taken care of. Check your state to determine the requirements for obtaining a marriage license, especially if your wedding is a destination one. Also, remember to choose a person who is responsible for sending off the marriage license while you go on your honeymoon because marriage licenses have a time limit.
2. Finalize Your Fitting
Whether your dress came from a selection of gorgeous mermaid wedding dresses or unique black wedding dresses, the most important part is that it fits your body type. Make sure you get a final fitting in so your dressmaker or designer can make any necessary last-minute alterations. Also, take this time to ask any questions you may have about your dress — such as if your dress requires steaming or ironing.
Another good idea is to bring your shoes and break them in if you haven’t already. Finally, arrange for the pick up of your gown and wedding day delivery.
3. Wrap up Seating, Schedules, and Payments
This week is a good time to follow-up on all of those missed RSVPs for confirmation. Additionally, use this time to finalize your reception and wedding attendee headcount and make your final payments for vendors and venues. This will allow you to finalize a seating chart for the ceremony so that it’s ready for the wedding coordinator and venues.
You should also take the time to put all necessary payments and tips into envelopes and give them to your designated coordinator/trusted person who can distribute them to the appropriate party. Don’t let money disputes put a damper on your big day!
4. Plan the Wedding Rehearsal
If you can avoid scheduling your wedding rehearsal the night before your nuptials, go for it. The night before your wedding should be a relaxing time — whether you choose to indulge in a relaxing bath or have fun with your bridal party at your hotel, it’s your time to take it easy.
However, it’s possible that some members of the wedding party can’t make it until the night before. Just plan in advance so that you can have a stress-free rehearsal. This includes having the shoes of your bridesmaids prepared so they can practice walking in them and having a clear timeline for anyone involved in the wedding ceremony.

It’s a great idea to rehearse your vows too!
Don’t forget to budget for food if you’re planning to include the rehearsal dinner. The average American wedding dedicated about $1,378 to rehearsal dinners in 2016. You can also bring your rehearsal dinner home to save some serious cash.
5. Delegate Duties
Depending on how involved your wedding coordinator is on your big day, it’s possible you’ll need some extra help. That’s where delegation comes in handy. Elect a central person who you trust that will be in charge of making sure your:
- Vendors are paid
- Wedding party gifts are distributed
- Gifts from guests are received
- Minor details specific to your wedding are taken care of
Preferably, choose someone who is not involved in the wedding so that they can focus solely on completing their tasks. If that isn’t possible, you can assign this duty to your maid-of-honor, matron-of-honor, or some other trusted bridal party member.
6. Shop and Pack for the Honeymoon
You don’t want to forget about your honeymoon! Make sure you have a list when you go shopping so you don’t forget anything. Think about your destination, pick a bag for both you and the groom, and pack the essentials. This includes extra underwear, hair products and toiletries, identification, travel documents, and spill-proof containers or packages for any liquids you want to bring.
7. Pack an Emergency Wedding Kit
Speaking of packing, you can’t forget to pack a kit of sewing supplies and other “day-of” essentials should something go wrong. Include scissors, thread, a measuring tape, a scrap piece of fabric, safety pins, bandages and any other item you may need to make last-minute repairs.
8. Relax (and Rest)!
Hey, you deserve it! This is the easiest part of the pre-wedding planning phase but often overlooked. Sleep is important for everyone; even a busy, soon-to-be bride. Don’t skip out on your beauty rest in anticipation of your big day, because you’ll need energy to fully enjoy it. Aim to get seven to eight hours of sleep to feel rested and energized.
Schedule a nail appointment the day before or even a spa appointment with a massage, manicure, pedicure and facial. Have a dedicated time you want to get some shut-eye and start preparing for bed at least an hour before. Use a sleep mask and black-out drapes if you’re a light sleeper to ensure quality shut-eye before your big day.
Preparing for your big day doesn’t have to be a chore. If you follow our wedding week checklist, you’ll be well on your way toward a beautiful, memorable wedding day. Did we miss anything? Feel free to comment below, we’re happy to learn from your experiences! You can also visit our Facebook and Pinterest pages for other ideas & wedding inspo.