The Ultimate 1-Week Wedding Countdown: What to Do Before Your Big Day

It’s hard to believe, but your wedding day is just one week away! The countdown has begun, and while there’s still a lot to do, don’t worry – I’ve got your back. Let’s dive in!

1. Rehearsal Run-Through

A day or two before your wedding, it’s time for a rehearsal. This will give you a chance to walk through your ceremony and check out your setup. Take a look at how the light falls in your ceremony area. You want either full shade or the sun behind you for the best photos. Dappled shade or direct sunlight in your face can be tricky for photos.

2. Create a Family Photo List

Family photos might not be the most exciting part of the wedding day but will be sentimental and part of your legacy, so now is the perfect time to create a list of must-have shots. Share the list with a trusted person from both families so they can help gather everyone after the ceremony. Having a go-to person to coordinate family members will save time and keep things running smoothly.

3. Pick Up Your Dress and Final Fitting

Your wedding dress is the star of the show, so make sure you’ve picked it up or completed any last-minute fittings. It’s also a great idea to do a full outfit run-through to make sure everything feels comfortable, especially when it comes to walking and checking underwear/bras are comfortable and not visible.

4. Confirm Your Drinks Order

If you’re in charge of ordering drinks, now’s the time to confirm numbers with the caterers or bar service. If you’ve already done this, high five! You’re ahead of the game. And while you’re at it, stay hydrated yourself. Wedding planning can be stressful, so don’t forget to drink… plenty of water!

5. Stick to Your Beauty Routine

This week, stick with your regular beauty routine. Avoid anything drastic, like new skincare products or treatments/ new tans, which could cause breakouts or irritation. Also, get plenty of rest! Sleep is essential for feeling and looking your best. And don’t forget to spend some quality time with your partner—this time together will help you stay grounded and calm.

6. Take Care of Final Payments

Before the big day, take care of any outstanding balances with your vendors. Double-check with everyone to confirm the final details—photographer, planners, venues, caterers, Makeup, DJs, and anyone else involved. Set aside cash for your makeup artist, and have it ready for the big day.

7. Schedule Your Beauty Appointments

Whether it’s a haircut, makeup, nails, or tan, now is the time to schedule your beauty appointments. If you’re planning on getting a spray tan, try to do it two days before the wedding so the color settles in nicely.

8. Finalize Your Gifts

If you’re gifting your bridal party, parents, or anyone else who’s been a huge help, make sure to finalize your gifts now. You can even treat your bridesmaids to a spray tan or nail appointment as a thank-you for all their support. Get your wishing well ready including any locks, and ask a family member to be in charge of the box on the night.

9. Pack for the Wedding Weekend

Now’s the time to start packing! Make sure you have everything you’ll need for the weekend, including outfits for your afterparty brunch and honeymoon. Don’t forget an emergency kit for the day of—band-aids, painkillers, a nail file, makeup for touch-ups, and a sewing kit with scissors can come in handy (just no scissors in any carry on for the honeymoon!). Also, clean your engagement ring—it’ll look perfect in all the photos!

10. Write Your Vows

The day or two before the wedding, take some time to write your vows. This is your chance to express your feelings to your partner and make it personal. Don’t wait until the last minute as It might not always come to you first draft! Start by writing down your thoughts, and then fine-tune them. Reflect on your relationship and the commitment you’re about to make, and remember—there’s no right or wrong way to write your vows.

11. Final Timeline Check

Review your wedding timeline and share it with your vendors. Make sure they know exactly when to show up and what to expect. It’s a good idea to delegate a few tasks to trusted friends and family members so they can help with last-minute preparations. If you’re working with a photographer, make sure they know when and where the key moments will take place. Use Pin Drop for any specific special or rural locations.

The Day Before: Relax and Enjoy the Calm Before the Storm

The day before your wedding can feel hectic, but it’s important to take some time to unwind. Here are a few things to do:

• Hydrate as much as possible. It’s key to looking and feeling great.

• Spend some time with your bridal party watching wedding movies or just chatting—it’s a great way to relax and bond before the big day.

• Write a love note for your partner and have it delivered by your groomsmen in the morning—it’s a sweet way to start the day.

• Finally, get a good night’s sleep. You’ll need all the energy you can get for the exciting day ahead!

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Don’t Forget These Last-Minute Essentials!

As the big day approaches, here are a few small but important things that might slip through the cracks:

• Printed vows (just in case)

• A wedding invitation (for detail shots)

• Champagne for the bridal party

• Day-after wedding outfit

• Painkillers for any post-wedding headaches

• Wedding lingerie

• Makeup for touch-ups

• A love note for your partner

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You’re Almost There!

With just one week left, you’re almost at the finish line! By staying organized and following this checklist, you’ll feel ready and prepared for your wedding day. Remember to take a deep breath, enjoy the moments, and let the magic unfold.

I can’t wait to be part of your special day and capture all those unforgettable moments!