What to Do the Week Before Your Wedding

The wedding bells are almost ringing, and you've probably been buried in planning for months. Now that the day is just around the corner, this is not the time to be thinking about how many people should I invite to my wedding—instead, it's time to focus on finalizing the details that will make your celebration seamless and unforgettable. From practical arrangements like confirming hotel bookings to special touches like cleaning your engagement rings, this comprehensive guide outlines what you should prioritize the week before your wedding.

Practical Things to Do the Week Before Your Wedding



The countdown has begun, and your wedding day is just a week away! With so many last-minute details to attend to, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. But don't worry—we've got you covered with a practical list to help you navigate through the final stretch.

Here are the practical things to do the week before your wedding:

Finalize and Confirm Hotel Bookings

Whether you're getting married locally or have guests traveling to join you, ensuring everyone has a place to stay is crucial. Double-check your reservations and confirm check-in and check-out times. This is also a great moment to ask about any wedding perks or packages the hotel might offer.

Pack for Your Destination Wedding or Honeymoon

The week before your wedding is the ideal time to get your bags packed for either your destination wedding or honeymoon. Make a checklist of essentials—from bridal attire to personal care items. Don't forget passports and travel documents if you're heading abroad.

Complete Any Necessary Legal Documents

Nothing can be more stressful than realizing you're missing key legal documents just days before your wedding. Make sure you have all marriage licenses, identification, and any special permits in order. Keep them in a safe but easily accessible location.

Check-In with Your Wedding Vendors

Finalize the details with your caterer, photographer, florist, and other vendors. Confirm arrival times and make sure they're clear on the wedding-day timeline. This alignment ensures everyone is on the same page, making for a seamless day of celebration. Whether you’ve chosen from the many indoor or outdoor wedding venues in Charleston, SC, ensure every vendor has directions on how to get there. 

Create a Wedding-Day Timeline

By this point, you should have a solid outline of how your wedding day will unfold. Take some time to detail it further, perhaps even creating a shareable document for your wedding party and vendors. Include all essential activities, from pre-ceremony preparations to the moment you say, "I do," and beyond.

Special Things to Do the Week Before Your Wedding

In the whirlwind of planning and last-minute details, it's essential to also focus on the special aspects that will make your wedding day memorable and meaningful. As you cross off the practical items on your to-do list, don't forget about these personal touches that add an extra layer of love and care to your celebration.

Here are must-do special things for the week before your wedding:

Have Your Engagement Ring(s) Cleaned

Your engagement ring will be sharing the spotlight with your wedding ring, so make sure it looks its best. Visit a trusted jeweler to get your ring cleaned and inspected. This ensures it will sparkle just as brightly as you on your special day.

Do a Final Wardrobe Check

You've spent months deciding on the perfect outfits for you and your wedding party, so make sure everything fits just right. Arrange a full dress rehearsal for the bride, groom, bridesmaids, groomsmen, and other attendants. Confirm that all attire is stain-free, wrinkle-free, and ready to go.

Practice Your Vows and Speeches

If you've decided to write your own vows or give a speech, use this time to put the finishing touches on your words. Practicing aloud will not only help you memorize but also work through any nervous jitters you may have.

Plan Special Moments or Surprise

Whether it's a surprise performance, a personalized gift for your spouse-to-be, or incorporating unique wedding venue ideas you haven't considered, take some time to plan something unexpected. This extra thought can add a layer of excitement and make your day even more memorable for you and your guests. These surprises could align with the venue you've chosen, such as a special toast on a historic staircase, releasing butterflies in a garden venue, or a fireworks exit by the lakeside. It's the thoughtful, unexpected moments that often become the most talked-about memories.

Take Time for Self-Care

In the hustle and bustle of final preparations, don't forget to take some time for yourself. Whether it's a soothing massage, a meditative moment, or simply a long walk, self-care helps you reset and focus, ensuring you're at your best when the big day comes.

Things You Might Not Think to Do the Week Before Your Wedding

With your wedding just around the corner, you've hopefully got the big things covered: the gorgeous dress or tux, the Charleston wedding venue of your dreams, and the guest list to name a few. But as the special day approaches, there are lesser-known, yet equally crucial, preparations that can make all the difference. Here are some things you might not think of doing but absolutely should in the week leading up to your nuptials.

Here are some things you might not have thought about to do the week before your wedding:

Over-communicate with Your Vendors

Communication is key to any successful event, but especially a wedding. Even if you've previously confirmed details as we advised, reach out to all your vendors to go over last-minute changes or updates. This can include things like dietary restrictions, specific song requests, or even weather contingencies. It ensures everyone is on the same page for your big day. There’s no need to go bride or groomzilla, but vendors will appreciate not walking in blind if significant last-minute changes occur. 

Designate Point People

On your wedding day, the last thing you want to deal with are last-minute questions or hiccups. Assign trustworthy friends or family members to act as liaisons between you and your vendors or guests. These point people can handle any issues that may arise, allowing you to focus on enjoying your day.

Clear Your Schedule

The week before your wedding will be hectic. If possible, try to clear your schedule of non-wedding-related activities and commitments. This frees you up for any last-minute changes, errands, or, most importantly, a little relaxation before the big day.

Break in Your Wedding Shoes

Nothing ruins a good party like sore feet. Spend some time wearing your wedding shoes around the house to break them in. This goes for brides and grooms. It might feel like a small detail, but comfortable shoes can make a world of difference when you're standing, walking, and dancing for hours. Advise your wedding party to do the same, they’ll thank you for it.

Review Your Contracts

Avoid unwanted surprises by going over all vendor contracts one last time. Double-check the terms, cancellation policies, and any other specifics that might impact your wedding day. This ensures that you’re aware of all the arrangements and wedding planning fees and can correct any discrepancies before they become issues.

Final Thoughts

As your wedding day inches closer, the to-do list can become daunting. But in a beautiful location like wedding venues in Charleston, SC, everything is set to be picture-perfect, as long as you’ve covered all your bases. Whether you're confirming vendor details or taking time for self-care, this week is your opportunity to make those final tweaks that transform your wedding into a truly extraordinary event. Make every second count so that when you finally say, "I do," it will be the culmination of thoughtful planning and heartfelt efforts.