In the months leading up to your wedding day, you’ve been hard at work putting plans in place to create the perfect celebration. Now, during the wedding week with just days to go, you might think your planning to-do list is finally complete. Well—almost.
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Your wedding week is crucial for last-minute preparations, self-care, and tying up loose ends. Think of it as a dress rehearsal for your big day—one that ensures you can walk down the aisle stress-free and fully enjoy every moment. That’s why having a week before the wedding to do list can be a lifesaver!
Wedding Week Checklist: Your Ultimate Week Before the Wedding To-Do List
1. Do Your Own Dress Rehearsal
• Try on every piece of your wedding day attire, from your dress to accessories, veil, and undergarments.
• Move around in your outfit to ensure it’s comfortable for walking, sitting, and dancing.
• Check for any necessary alterations or last-minute adjustments.
2. Break in Your Shoes
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• Wear your wedding shoes for at least an hour daily to prevent painful blisters.
• Practice walking on different surfaces to get used to them.
• Pack a backup pair (flats, sneakers, or comfy heels) just in case.
3. Double Check With Your Wedding Planner or Coordinator
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• During your wedding week, go over the final timeline and confirm all vendor arrivals and setup times.
• Ensure your emergency contact list (including your MOH, planner, and immediate family members) is ready.
• Discuss any final concerns or special requests.
4. Wrap Up Work Responsibilities
• Complete any major projects at work so you can fully unplug for your wedding and honeymoon.
• Set up an out-of-office message for emails.
• Delegate tasks to colleagues if necessary.
5. Prioritize Sleep and Relaxation
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• Aim for at least 7–8 hours of sleep each night to keep your energy levels high.
• Avoid overloading your schedule—give yourself downtime to unwind during your wedding week so you feel refreshed on the big day.
• Try relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or a warm bath.
6. Practice Saying Your Vows Out Loud
• Reading them in your head isn’t enough—practice out loud to get comfortable.
• Time yourself to ensure they fit within the ceremony length.
• If writing personal vows, have a final copy printed and ready.
7. Confirm Toasts and Speeches
• Check in with those giving toasts or speeches (parents, best man, maid of honor, etc.).
• Confirm when and where toasts will happen in the reception timeline.
• Ensure they know to keep their speech within a reasonable length.
8. Plan for Post-Wedding Gift Transportation
• Decide who will be in charge of collecting wedding gifts and cards.
• Arrange where they will be taken (home, a family member’s house, or hotel suite).
• Pack extra bags or containers for easier transport.
9. Confirm Guest Count & Last-Minute Changes
• Most caterers and rental companies require a final headcount two weeks before the wedding, so rather than being a final headcount, this step is just to confirm any last-minute changes.
• If there were any last-minute guest changes (cancellations or unexpected attendees), notify your planner, caterer, and seating chart coordinator.
• Ensure your venue and anyone handling place cards, escort cards, or meal preferences have the most up-to-date list—this is an essential step in your week before the wedding to-do list.
10. Pick Up Your Marriage License (If You Haven’t Already)
• Marriage license rules vary by state and even by county, so double-check your local requirements. Some areas allow same-day issuance, while others have a waiting period of 2–5 days.
• If you haven’t already picked up your license, make sure you do so in time for your wedding.
• Keep it in a safe place and designate someone (like your officiant or best man) to bring it to the ceremony.
• Ensure your officiant knows the steps to properly complete and file the license after the wedding.
11. Finalize the Seating Chart
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• Make last-minute tweaks based on late RSVPs or changes.
• Print updated place cards or send the final list to your planner or venue.
• Verify table numbers and layout with the reception venue.
12. Pack Your Wedding Day Survival Kit
Include essentials like:
• Tissues
• Band-Aids
• Fashion tape
• Safety pins
• Sewing kit
• Lip balm
• Blotting papers
• Snacks
• Pain reliever
• Personal health products/medications
• Phone charger
Give this kit to your maid of honor or planner for easy access on the big day, so you won’t have to lug it around yourself. Having a well-stocked survival kit is a wedding week essential!
Final Thoughts
The week before the wedding is your chance to get everything in order while also taking care of yourself. Following a week before the wedding to-do list ensures you don’t miss any important details! Use this time wisely, delegate tasks where you can, and remember to enjoy the excitement leading up to your special day!
What’s on your last-minute wedding to-do list? Share in the comments!
Hearts, Joy, Love!
Jean
Author of “Wedding Invitations, RSVPs, and More! Oh My!” and “From ‘I Will’ to ‘I Do’”
