The morning of your wedding day will feel surreal.
You’ve been planning for this moment for months now, maybe even years, and at last it’s arrived. You’re not at the finish line yet, though. Instead of rushing through your morning hoping to get the grand finale, here are some things you can do to enjoy every moment of your special day and create memories that will last a lifetime:
1. Wake up – slowly
No part of your wedding day should feel rushed, and that includes waking up. Set an alarm if you need to, but don’t leap out of bed when it goes off. Let yourself stretch, think about the day, and only get up when you’re ready to. Make sure you get to bed at a reasonable time the night before so you aren’t groggy when you get up.
2. Have a healthy breakfast!
Nerves might make you feel like you can’t eat a thing, but you should at least nibble at breakfast (especially if you’re planning some champagne toasts with your bridesmaids later). Have a bowl of oatmeal, a fruit plate, or eggs. Make sure you’re drinking water all day, too. You don’t want dehydration to catch up with you at the altar.
3. Let the groom know you're thinking of him
If you’re following tradition and steering clear of the groom until you meet him at the end of the aisle, make sure he knows you’re thinking of him while you’re both getting ready separately. Write him a love note or send him a small gift, and have one of the groomsmen or a bridesmaid deliver it. This day is about the two of you, so don’t forget to check in with each other.
4. Check in with vendors
Brides who have a wedding planner have a lot less to do on their wedding day, but if you’re flying solo, make a short list of last minute things to check up on before you get ready. Make sure all the vendors know where to go, and if there are any last minute issues, have a bridesmaid or another member of the wedding party take care of it.
5. Make sure you packed everything
Unless you woke up at the venue where you’re getting married, you’ll have to pack up your things and head to the location at some point. It’s a good idea to pack the day before when you’re less stressed or pressed for time, but you should still give your items a once-over to make sure you have the essentials. Don’t panic, though, because if you forgot anything, you can likely either have someone pick it up or realize that you can do without it.
6. Give your parents a big hug
This day may be emotional for you, but it’s also a big deal to your parents! They’re watching their baby grow up and start a new life. Take some time to call them up or give them a hug in person and let them know how much you appreciate them. You might want to do this before you put on any makeup!
7. Enjoy the time spent with your bridesmaids
Getting ready for your wedding with your bridesmaids should feel like a celebration! Wear matching pjs, do a champagne toast, and laugh with each other, because when something wonderful happens to one of you, it happens to all of you. Things might change a bit after you’re married, but you’ll always be able to share the memory of a fun morning spent bonding with your gals.
8. Give your bridesmaids gifts
Speaking of your bridesmaids, make sure you show your appreciation with a small token of gratitude. Jewelry is always a winning choice, and rather than getting the same thing for everyone, try picking out different pieces for each bridesmaid based on their personality and taste. Your elegant friends will appreciate The Pearl, our simulated pearl earrings, or for a bit of glamor you can pick The Gia with simulated diamonds. If you do want everyone to match, though, try The Kali necklace, which is universally flattering.
Earrings: The Ivy
9. Delegate the details
Chances are, you’ll be bombarded with question after question from vendors, guests, and everyone in between. You don’t have to answer them all. You have more than enough to attend to as it is, so pick someone or even a few people who can take care of small things. Tiny details won’t stand out in your memory years from now, so let them go.
Rings: The Bella, The Sadie, The Giselle, The Mia
10. Savor the moments!
Sit down. Take a break. Breathe for a moment and think about how you got here. Do this a few times during the morning. We’re always told to be more mindful in life, and what better time to start than on your wedding day? Each moment is a gift, so take the time to appreciate it.
Your wedding day is a completely unique and wonderful experience, so make the most of it, starting in the morning!
Laugh with your bridesmaids, send the groom some love, and revel in a day that’s all about you and your future spouse.