(This article first appeared in the June print edition of the Hendersonian.)
Planning a wedding is a significant undertaking, full of many details that can easily be forgotten amid the excitement. To reduce the anxiety that often accompanies last-minute preparations, it’s beneficial to develop a thorough checklist that covers every task—both the big, essential ones and the smaller, often-overlooked details. This approach not only ensures that no aspect of your celebration is forgotten, but it also allows you to immerse yourself in the joy of your special day.
Here’s a list of essential tasks in no particular order that brides often overlook, including coordinating payments, crafting playlists, your photographer’s shot list, and assembling an emergency kit. Addressing these details will ensure a seamless, memorable experience.
• Gather your undergarments, including your bra, underwear, shapewear, underskirts, and stockings. Don’t forget to include the shoes you plan to wear, as they are essential for both comfort and style. Be sure to pack your wedding bands and any other jewelry you would like to wear. Additionally, a cake knife and server set is necessary, along with some cash for vendor tips or unexpected expenses.
• Make sure your marriage license is readily accessible. It’s a legal requirement. Designate someone to collect and secure the wedding gifts during the festivities. Don’t forget to bring your phone charger. If you’re getting ready in two separate locations, remember to pack your veil. Ensure that your flower girl’s flower basket is prepared, and consider comfortable outfits for yourself and your bridesmaids while you get ready. Monogrammed robes with matching slippers are a popular and stylish choice.
• When preparing for your reception, remember to include finishing touches like a cake topper and toasting flutes. It’s also important to pack a card box for well-wishes and some tissues for any emotional moments. Snacks can be a lifesaver while you’re getting ready, and bottled water is essential.
• If you’re planning to create a nice atmosphere with calming music while getting ready, make sure to bring a speaker. A quality hanger for your wedding dress and a portable steamer will help keep it looking pristine. It’s also a good idea to have the complete invitation suite prepared for the photographer. If you’re hosting breakfast after the wedding day, don’t forget to bring a suitable outfit.
• Printing copies of your vows can add a sentimental touch, and a crochet hook can be handy for any wedding dress buttons that need adjustments. Pack tweezers, scissors, and a small sewing kit for last-minute fixes. A small spray bottle with distilled water can help combat static cling, while a pen for your guest book and a lighter for your unity candles are essential.
• To ensure your comfort, bring a pair of shoes to change into as the day progresses. If you plan to save a tier of your cake for your first anniversary, have something suitable to take it home in. Using reserved seating signs and table numbers will help organize your reception. Additionally, it is essential to have a wedding day emergency kit ready. This kit should include safety pins, clear nail polish, double-sided tape, deodorant, blotting papers, pain relievers, bandages, hair ties, bobby pins, breath mints, tissues, makeup touch-up items, smelling salts, a stain remover pen, wipes, perfume, and a phone charger with an adapter.
My love note: Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and rich, heavy foods during your rehearsal dinner, as they can interfere with a restful night’s sleep. To ensure you’re up and ready for the big day, set multiple alarms or consider arranging a wake-up call.
Pem Pfisterer Clark has been hosting the nationally syndicated radio show “Wedding Planning With Pem” for over 20 years. The show provides valuable advice, insider tips, etiquette and money-saving ideas to listeners across the country. Bill Stevens Stark is the executive producer of the show.
