There will be so much going on the days before your wedding that it’s very easy to forget some key details – and some things that are not merely a detail. Here is a list of 6 things brides forget, so you can be sure not to forget them yourself!
Hand sanitizer/wipes, tissue paper, drinks, food, and a phone charger. I also highly recommend having some electrolyte replenishing drinks or powder to help you and your squad stay hydrated throughout the day. Also, don’t forget to have your meals as usual! It is a very busy day, but staying fed and hydrated will help you enjoy the day without fatigue and headaches. Pay special attention to water intake if you’ll be sipping on a (few) delicious mimosa(s)!
Believe it or not, with all the excitement and anticipation for the more fun parts of the wedding day, it’s not that uncommon for couples to forget to bring their marriage license to the ceremony site. To avoid forgetting it, have it in a folder and pack it into your wedding day bag the week before your wedding. After the wedding, your officiant will take it with him to file with the county, then you will receive your marriage certificate.
For your photographer to be able to capture those beautiful detail shots you swoon over online you will need to remember to bring the important items that make a beautiful detail shot. Be sure to bring a full invitation suite with you, order a few extra blooms from your florist, and if you have pretty items that are meaningful to you, such as a pretty family heirloom, a small decorative tray, brooches, a heirloom ring box…Anything beautiful and meaningful that helps tell your story will make those shots all the more special. Most photographers and designers have a styling kit with basic items that can be used for these shots, so if nothing else, be sure to bring your invitations!
There is sometimes a misconception about who provides the couple with their toast flutes as well as cake cutting utensils. In most cases, those are provided by you. Some caterers do offer cake cutting utensils, but most couples choose to buy their own so they can choose the design – since those appear on so many pictures – as well as choose beautiful and personalized flutes that you can use again on your special milestones.
Be sure to prepare any tips in separate envelopes ahead of time for any vendors that require a tip or that you wish to tip because they’ve been amazing. For catering staff, the caterer may prefer you place tips in separate envelopes that can be handed to each staff member, or you may be able to hand the catering manager a single envelope with all the tips. Ask your caterer ahead of time or check your contract, so you’ll have that ready to go.
It’s easy to overlook this need, but it’s very important to make sure you assign someone to collect all of your items at the end of the night. Most venues usually need the space clear that same night after the event, so you need to be sure someone is in charge of collecting all of your things and taking it home for you. Between making sure you don’t miss the last dance, saying your goodbyes, and making that remarkable exit, you will be too busy at the end of the night so assign someone ahead of time. Also remember to assign someone to take your dress to the cleaners, if you’re leaving right after the wedding for the honeymoon.