Last-Minute Wedding Checklist:
Don’t Forget These 13 Essentials!
Planning a wedding in Victoria, BC, is an exciting adventure, but it can also be incredibly stressful. As a former bride, bridesmaid, and wedding photographer in this beautiful city, I’ve seen just about everything that can go right—and wrong—on a wedding day. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and overlook some critical details. To help ease your stress, I’ve compiled a fun and practical checklist of last-minute essentials you might have forgotten.
1. Nourishment is Key
Amidst the hustle and bustle of your wedding day, it’s surprisingly easy to forget to eat. Many brides are so caught up in preparations that they miss meals. Ensure you have snacks or meals prepared, not just for you, but also for your groom and bridal party. Pack a small cooler with water bottles, especially if your portraits are scheduled for a time when food might not be readily available. Staying hydrated and well-fed will keep your energy levels high and your spirits higher!
2. Legal Documents
Your marriage license is perhaps the most important document of the day. While the officiant usually takes care of it, make sure it’s ready and handed to someone trustworthy. Here’s a funny story: I once witnessed a marriage license almost catch fire from a nearby candle! Also, if you’re jetting off for your honeymoon right after the ceremony, don’t forget your passport, ID, and any travel documents. Double-check these items the night before to avoid a last-minute panic.
3. Payments
It’s best to pay your vendors before the wedding day if possible. This avoids the awkwardness of handling payments during your celebration. If prepayment isn’t an option, prepare envelopes with checks or cash and delegate someone reliable to distribute them.
4. The Rings
Don’t let anyone forget the rings! Designate someone responsible for keeping them safe until it’s time to say “I do.”
5. Itineraries
For Vendors: Provide all your vendors with a detailed itinerary. DJs need to know when to play each song, decorators need access times, and photographers need a schedule for formal photos and locations. Clear communication ensures everything runs smoothly.
For Guests: Inform your guests about the schedule, especially for formal photos and when the reception ends. Consider having the officiant announce key timings before the ceremony starts.
6. Shot List
Give your photographer a shot list for family photos. This ensures no important shots are missed. While Pinterest can be a great source of inspiration, it’s best to let your photographer focus on capturing your unique day without trying to replicate specific images.
7. Seating Plan and Place Cards
Ensure your seating plan and place cards are ready and clearly displayed. This avoids any confusion and helps guests find their seats quickly.
8. Bridal Emergency Kit
An emergency kit can be a lifesaver on your wedding day. Here’s a list of items to include:
- Gum and mouthwash
- Bobby pins, needle, and thread
- Tide bleach pen
- Deodorant and mini hairspray
- Lip gloss/chapstick
- Band-aids and blister covers
- Clear nail polish and body tape
- Lint roller and Kleenex
- Nail file and Advil/Tylenol
- Water and a granola bar
- Safety pins, pen or pencil, and condoms (just in case!)
This kit will help you handle any unexpected issues with grace.
9. The Outfit
Your dress is undoubtedly the star of the show, but don’t forget the accessories: hairpieces, shoes (including comfy ones for dancing), lingerie, purse, jewelry, corsage, and veil. Double-check that everything is packed and ready to go.
10. Transportation
Arrange transportation for you and your wedding party to and from each location. Ensure everyone has safe transport, especially if there will be alcohol at the event. Prevent any drinking and driving by booking shuttles or assigning designated drivers.
11. The Little Things
Don’t forget the smaller details that add up to a seamless event:
- Pens and toasting glasses
- Guestbook and cake-cutting materials
- Wedding favors and seating/place cards
- Flower girl basket and ring bearer pillow
- Maps, matches for candles, and disposable cameras
- Rice/petals/bubbles and cake topper
- Corsage, vows, boutonnieres, umbrellas, parasols, fans, and bouquets
These items might seem minor but play significant roles in your wedding day.
12. Delegate Duties
Assign specific tasks to trusted friends or family members to lighten your load. Consider hiring a day-of wedding coordinator to handle logistics. Also, arrange for a ride to transport all your gifts home safely.
13. Hydrate and Rest
Finally, remember to hydrate—not just your flowers, but yourself too! Drink plenty of water and get a good night’s sleep before your big day. Relax and try to enjoy the moment. Even if a few things go awry, your wedding day will be memorable and special.
Wrapping Up
Planning a wedding involves countless details, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But with a little preparation and organization, you can handle the last-minute essentials with ease. Hopefully this wedding checklist helps. Remember, the day is about celebrating love and joy. By keeping this checklist handy, you can focus on what truly matters: making beautiful memories that will last a lifetime. Enjoy your special day!
