8 Things to Do on Your Wedding Day
Article By | Hannah Holbrook
You plan, you prepare, you work hard to ensure everything comes together perfectly – and in a flash the only thing you can remember is getting into the car and taking your shoes off at the end of the night.
It’s your wedding day – and while everyone has told you to take it slow and to be mindful – you’re not even sure how to enjoy things when there is so much to be done. Between camera flashes going off, the constant reminder to smile and stand up straight, and the surge of emotions that come with saying “I do” after months of planning, scheduling, budgeting, crafting, and preparing – being present is the last thing on your mind. Add in an audience, your heels, and the timeline, and it makes sense that your brain might be fogged.
To help you breathe and fully take in the day you worked so hard to plan, we’ve compiled a list of eight things to do on your wedding day.
(1) Put Someone Else in Charge – Whether you hire a day-of coordinator or ask a few friends with the uncanny ability to direct people, putting someone else in charge of various aspects of your wedding day will lift a huge weight off your shoulders and allow you to be present. No matter how much of a control-freak you are, delegating ensures that you don’t have to be in twenty places at once. Pick a designated “point-person” for your décor, traffic flow, personal items and gifts, etc. – someone who knows your vision and can manage its execution on the day of your wedding. Some brides even put a trusted bridesmaid in charge of their cell phone so they don’t have to respond to last minute questions and emergencies.
(2) Create a Detailed Schedule – Events have so many moving parts. Create a detailed schedule of when things will be happening. Be sure to include the names of people who have important roles along with where they should be and at what time they should be there. Print this timeline and have copies handy so everyone can stay on schedule.
(3) Have Your “Getaway Bag” Packed – Pack a bag with your essentials and have it stowed away in your exit vehicle. A change of clothes, your makeup bag, your toothbrush – pack whatever you’ll need for the next 24 hours so you’re not scrambling for your facewash at your hotel.
(4) Stay Hydrated – Your wedding day will be filled with friends, family, and photos! Before you know it, you’ll have gone several hours without a drink. To prevent any fainting (especially in the summer months), and to keep your mind clear, be sure to hydrate regularly.
(5) Enjoy the Things You’ve Paid For – This might feel difficult amidst the hustle and bustle of the day, but if you can, take time to experience your wedding – not just attend it. If you don’t think you’ll have time to enjoy your appetizers or cocktails, ask your caterer set aside some goodies for you and your spouse to enjoy later. Hop in the photobooth with your bridesmaids and be sure to savor your wedding cake!
(6) Have a Moment – Think about the people who are the most important to you: the ones that raised you, helped you through your hardest times, and shaped who you are. Today is a big day for them too. And they’d love a moment alone with you. This might look like having your mom help you get dressed, doing a first look with your dad or brother, or waiting with your best friend in private before walking down the aisle – don’t miss the opportunity for a moment of affection with these special people. They, and you, will treasure it for a lifetime.
(7) Thank People – While this might seem like a no-brainer, you’d be surprised how easy it is to forget to thank the people who came to celebrate your big day. Whether you thank folks in person, or do it in a speech, be sure to share your gratitude both with your guests and the people that helped make your special day happen.
(8) Take Time to Connect and Look at Your Spouse – Your wedding is ultimately about you and your spouse-to-be. It’s crazy that some couples barely get to make eye contact until their first dance – and even then, it’s with hundreds of eyes watching! Take some time to be alone with your partner as the truth settles in – you’re finally married! Whether you steal a few minutes together after the ceremony or opt for a “last dance” where you clear out your venue for one more dance alone with your partner, these moments will be treasures you remember forever.