5 Things to Do the Week Before Your Wedding
Trust me, I understand the week before your wedding can be stressful. One of the most frequent comments I get from brides is “I just don’t know what I’m supposed to be doing”. I was there and one hundred percent get it. It feels like there’s so much on your plate. You almost wish someone would just tell you what to do, right? At least, I know I felt that way. So from one bride & wedding photographer to another – here are a few things to do the week before your wedding. Obviously, this is merely a guide but I hope it helps! Have questions? Need more guidance? Check out my other blog posts like this one – it might be helpful! I know you’re busy so let me get straight to the point!
1. Take everything in before your wedding.
Take it all in. I know it’s all going to fly by – but I highly encourage you to set aside time to reflect, soak in all the sweet moments, & remember what this day is all about. Whether this be journaling, chatting with a friend over your favorite drink, or going on a walk to process. Do whatever you need to do to truly take in these moments. Clear your head with some yoga or even a massage! It may be cliche but your wedding will truly go by so fast! I cannot stress how important it is to have clear headspace going into it. Whatever it is, be sure you do what you need to do to be fully present as you approach your wedding day. You’ll thank me later!
2. Take all the pictures during wedding week!
Of course, I’m, biased but seriously take lots of pictures the week before. Take pictures when you get your marriage license. Take pictures at your rehearsal dinner with all your people. I promise this is such a unique week of your life when all your favorite people are together so be sure to document it! If you have room in your budget, even consider hiring a photographer to take photos during your rehearsal dinner! Not often are all your favorite people in the same room, so having photos with those dear loved ones are seriously priceless! If not, be sure to at least take iphone photos. Or maybe even some fun disposal ones! Consider even having one of your bridesmaids/personal attendants/ or family members assigned to taking photos & video clips throughout all the sweet moments during the week before your wedding!
3. Have all the logistics prepped before the wedding!
Now we’re getting into some of the bigger tasks to do. I always tell my clients to make a list – google doc, spreadsheet, etc. outlining all of the tasks that need to be done as well as who is responsible for each one. Additionally, have a clearly communicated wedding day and wedding weekend timeline sheet that can be easily sent out to all family members and bridal party. I’ll be making a separate post for this to help you know what should go on the timelines! Sometimes your planner will be able to help you with this. Either way, make sure to communicate all the logistics prior to your wedding so you can truly just enjoy the day! Additionally, make sure you have everything packed and ready that you will need on your wedding day! More on that in this blog post!
4. Remember that everything won’t go perfectly.
Remember that not everything is going to go perfect – and that’s okay. things happen. Just prioritize what matters to you and let the rest go. Remembering this is so important, although can definitely be difficult! It might rain – it might snow. There’s a million possibilities, but take it from Jim and Pam from the Office – just roll with it!
5. Be intentional the week before your wedding!
Trust me, I know there’s going to be a lot going on. One of my biggest pieces of advice is for the bride and groom to pick one way to be intentional with their guests. Write a note to each member of your bridal party. Maybe make a plan to thank every guest personally during your cocktail hour. Make time during your rehearsal dinner to chat with old friends. Whatever it is, make sure it is truly intentional. There’s something so sweet about stepping away from all the craziness so truly thank the people you love and show them you care.
The week before your wedding is truly hectic – I get it. Take some time the week before to get ahead on everything you need to so that you can enjoy the day. Use these tips as a guideline to make sure all your boxes are checked.
More Resources:
Need a few more ideas for things to do the week before your wedding? Check out these links!
