Things Brides Should Do 1 Month Before the Wedding: Essential Last-Minute Tips

As your wedding day approaches, you might feel the pressure mounting, but don’t worry. You’ve got this!

One of the most important tasks is to confirm and pay your vendors in full. This helps avoid any last-minute issues and ensures that everything goes smoothly.

One month before the wedding is also a great time to get a full body massage. Stress can creep up as the day gets closer, so take a moment to relax.

Regular massages can help you feel your best and look radiant as you walk down the aisle.

If you haven’t already, make sure to finalize your seating chart and prepare welcome bags for your guests.

These thoughtful touches can make your wedding day even more special and will help everything flow seamlessly.

Finalize Guest List and Send Final Headcount

With one month to go until the big day, it’s time to finalize your guest list and send the final headcount to your vendors.

First, ensure all your RSVPs are in. If some guests haven’t responded, reach out to them.

A quick phone call or email will do the trick.

Next, update your guest list. Mark who is attending and who isn’t.

This list will be your guide for the rest of the planning.

Create a finalized headcount. This number is crucial. Share it with your caterer, venue, and anyone else who needs it.

They will need to know how much food to prepare and how many seats to set up.

A clear and accurate headcount helps make the day run smoothly. You’ll also avoid any last-minute surprises.

Here’s a sample checklist:

• Confirm all RSVPs
• Update guest list with final responses
• Send final headcount to caterer and venue

Confirm All Vendor Contracts and Payments

One month before your wedding, it’s important to confirm all vendor contracts and payments. This helps avoid any last-minute stress or confusion.

Start by reaching out to each vendor on your list. Ensure that your caterer, photographer, florist, and DJ have all the details they need.

Check each contract. Make sure all services, dates, and prices are correct.

If anything looks off, contact the vendor right away to fix it.

Next, finalize your payments.

Some vendors may require full payment now, while others might prefer payments on the day of the wedding. Make sure to stick to their schedule.

It’s helpful to prepare payment envelopes for the day of the wedding.

Label each envelope with the vendor’s name and the amount. Hand these envelopes to a trusted friend or family member who can distribute them on your big day.

Here’s a quick checklist:

• Contact each vendor to confirm details.
• Review contracts for accuracy.
• Arrange final payments.
• Prepare labeled payment envelopes.

Prepare Wedding Day Timeline and Share with Vendors

About a month before your wedding, it’s important to prepare a detailed timeline. This helps everyone know what to expect.

First, break down your timeline starting from getting ready in the morning to the last dance at the reception.

Example Timeline:

Time	Event
10:00 a.m.	Hair and makeup begin
12:00 p.m.	Photographer arrives
2:00 p.m.	Ceremony starts
3:00 p.m.	Cocktail hour
4:00 p.m.	Reception begins
8:00 p.m.	Final dance

Share this with your vendors like the photographer, caterer, and DJ.

Make sure you also include location details, especially if your ceremony and reception are at different venues.

Send the timeline along with a floor plan showing things like the DJ setup, table arrangement, and food stations.

This will help each vendor set up smoothly and know where to be and when.

Keep your contact info and a primary contact person available on the day in case anything needs adjusting.

Attend Final Dress Fitting and Accessory Try-On

One month before your wedding is the perfect time to attend your final dress fitting. This ensures your dress fits perfectly.

Bring any specific accessories you plan to wear, like your veil and shoes. These help you and your seamstress see the complete look.

Check the fit of the dress around your bodice, waist, and hips. Make sure you can move comfortably.

Walking, sitting, and dancing should be easy while wearing your dress.

At this stage, consider your dress rehearsal. Practice moving and ensure the bustle is easy to manage. This helps avoid any mishaps on your big day.

Tips:

• Bring your bridal shoes for the fitting
• Wear similar undergarments you’ll use on your wedding day
• Pay attention to the length and fit

Common Alterations:

• Adjusting the bodice and waist
• Hemming the length
• Adding a bustle

Feel free to discuss any concerns with your seamstress. This is your time to make sure everything is perfect for your wedding day.

Enjoy the process and cherish these moments as they lead up to your special day!

Finalize Seating Chart and Place Cards

One month before your wedding, it’s time to finalize your seating chart and place cards. This helps you ensure everything runs smoothly on the big day.

First, gather all the RSVPs. This helps you confirm who will be attending. Double-check the list to make sure everyone is included.

Next, start planning your seating chart.

Think about who should sit together. Group your guests by family, friends, or interests. This makes sure everyone has a good time.

Steps for Finalizing Seating Chart:

1. Print out a list of all confirmed guests.
2. Break them into groups or tables.
3. Assign each guest to a table.
4. Double-check for any conflicts or changes.

After that, create escort cards. These cards tell guests which table they are assigned to.

Each card should have the guest’s name and table number.

Escort Card Examples:

• John Smith – Table 5
• Mary Johnson – Table 3

A venue walk-through can help you visualize the seating arrangement.

Visit your venue and see how the tables will be set up. Make sure there’s enough space and everything looks good.

Use place cards to assign specific seats at each table. These cards go on the table and show guests where to sit.

Example Place Card:

• Jane Doe

If you’re designing custom cards, use your wedding theme and colors. This adds a special touch to your décor.

Prepare Wedding Day Emergency Kit

Preparing a wedding day emergency kit will put your mind at ease. It ensures you’re ready for any mishaps.

Essential Items

Makeup: Pack a small bag with your foundation, concealer, mascara, and lipstick.

Blotting papers help keep shine away during photos.

Hair: Bring bobby pins, a travel-sized hair spray, and a comb.

These can fix any hair out of place.

Clothing Fixes

Safety Pins: Use these to fix a tear or keep your dress in place.

Wrinkle-release spray: This is handy for dresses, suits, and bridesmaids’ attire that might get creased.

Personal Care

Tissues: These are useful for happy tears and allergies.

Band-Aids: For cuts or blisters from new shoes.

Mints or gum: To keep your breath fresh throughout the day.

Skin and Lips

Moisturizer: Keep your skin hydrated, especially if you have a long day ahead.

Lip balm or chapstick: This is perfect for preventing your lips from getting dry, particularly during photo sessions.

Extra Tips

Baby Powder: It helps with sweaty feet or to keep the beaded bodice from chafing.

Energy snacks: Have small snacks, like granola bars, to keep your energy up.

Beauty Sleep

Get a good night’s rest before your big day!

Use a sleep mask and earplugs to ensure a restful night.

Write Vows and Speeches

One month before the wedding is the perfect time to start writing your vows and speeches. It’s important to spend some time thinking about what you want to say.

Gather Inspiration

1. Listen to romantic songs.
2. Read old letters from each other.
3. Look at old photographs.
4. Watch your favorite rom-coms.

Writing Your Vows

Be personal and sincere. Here are some tips:

• Write from the heart.
• Include specific promises.
• Share personal anecdotes.

For example:

• “I promise to always support your dreams.”
• “I will cherish our laughter every day.”

Preparing Your Toast

Your toast should:

• Be brief, around 2-3 minutes.
• Include a heartfelt message.
• Mention a funny or touching story.
• End with well wishes for the couple.

Example format for a toast:

Section	Content
Opening	“Hi everyone, for those who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name].”
Body	“I met the bride in [situation], and we’ve been [relationship] for [years].”
Conclusion	“Here’s to a lifetime of joy and love for [Bride] and [Groom]. Cheers!”

Practice

Read your vows and speech out loud.

Practice makes perfect. You’ll feel more confident during the ceremony.

Delegate Wedding Day Tasks to Bridal Party

Getting your bridal party involved can lighten your load and ensure everything runs smoothly.

Event Logistics: Assign tasks like coordinating with vendors or overseeing the setup of the venue.

Your maid of honor or best man can keep track of the schedule, making sure everyone is where they need to be at the right times.

Getting Ready: Have your bridesmaids help with hair and makeup planning.

They can assist in making sure each person is ready on time. Assign someone to keep the getting ready space tidy.

Your bridal party can also handle small yet important tasks.

For example, someone can be in charge of relaying messages between you and vendors or delivering final payments in cash or check envelopes.

Ceremony Duties: Friends or family can help by handing out programs or escorting guests to their seats.

It’s also nice to select a trusted friend to manage readings during the ceremony.

Emergency Kit: Have one of your bridesmaids put together an emergency kit with items like safety pins, tissues, and stain remover. This ensures you’re prepared for any mishaps.

Confirm Honeymoon Reservations and Travel Plans

With one month to go, it’s time to confirm your honeymoon reservations and make sure your travel plans are set.

First, double-check all your bookings.

Ensure your flights, hotel stays, and any other accommodations are confirmed.

Organize your travel documents.

Make sure your passports are valid. If visas are required, ensure they are in order.

Reach out to your travel agent, if you have one.

Confirm that everything is booked and paid for.

Next, create a detailed itinerary.

List out flight times, hotel addresses, and any activities you’ve planned.

Think about packing.

Make a list of essentials such as:

• Clothes for your destination
• Travel-sized toiletries
• Important documents
• Any special items for your honeymoon

If you’re having a destination wedding, coordinate your travel plans as well.

Lastly, consider travel insurance.

It’s a smart way to protect your trip in case of unexpected issues.

Prepare Wedding Favors and Welcome Bags

A month before your wedding, it’s important to start preparing wedding favors and welcome bags for your guests.

Wedding Favors

Wedding favors are small gifts you give your guests as a thank you for coming to your special day.

Here are a few ideas:

• Personalized items: Think about custom keychains, candles, or mugs with your names and wedding date.
• Edible treats: Mini jars of honey, chocolates, or cookies are always a hit.
• Simple and meaningful: Small plants like succulents can be a lovely memento.

Welcome Bags

Welcome bags are a thoughtful way to greet your out-of-town guests and make them feel special.

Include a few essentials:

• Snacks and drinks: Bottled water, granola bars, or fruit.
• Local goodies: Show off local flavors with regional snacks.
• Health and safety supplies: Hand sanitizer, face masks, or sunscreen can be very helpful.

You can also add:

• A welcome note: A small letter welcoming your guests and thanking them for coming.
• Event schedule: Include a list of wedding events with times and locations.
• Maps and guides: Local maps or brochures of nearby attractions can help guests explore the area.

Extra Tips

Make sure to tailor your favors and welcome bags to your guest list.

Think about what your guests might appreciate and enjoy.

Also, try to prepare these items well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.

Use this time to finalize your guest list and ensure that everyone receives their special gifts.

Finalize Wedding Day Hair and Makeup Trial

With just one month to go, it’s time to nail down your wedding day look. Make sure you schedule both a hair and makeup trial to avoid any surprises.

Hair and Makeup Trials

First, book your hair and makeup trials early. Talk to your hairstylist and makeup artist about your preferences, wedding theme, and dress. Bring photos for inspiration.

During the trial, wear a white top to mimic your dress and check the overall look.

Beauty Sleep and Health

Beauty sleep is crucial. Ensure you’re getting enough rest to look fresh and glowing.

Drink plenty of water and follow a good skincare routine. Avoid trying new products that could cause breakouts.

Other Beauty Tasks

This month is also perfect for a mani/pedi.

Choose a nail color that matches your theme or go for classic shades like nude or light pink.

If you’re considering a spray tan, schedule it a few days before the wedding to ensure it looks natural.

Facials should be done at least a week before to allow your skin to recover.

Talk to your esthetician about your skin needs and stick to treatments you know your skin handles well.

Break in Wedding Shoes

Breaking in your wedding shoes is a must to keep your feet comfy on your big day. Here’s what you need to do:

First, start wearing your shoes around the house.

Put them on for short periods at first, like 15-30 minutes. Gradually increase the time you wear them.

Another tip is to practice walking on different surfaces. Try carpet, hardwood, and even outside.

This helps your shoes get used to various textures.

You can also wear your shoes with the socks you plan on wearing. This helps to mold them to your feet.

If your shoes are stiff, bend them gently with your hands. Be careful not to damage them, but give them a little flex.

Place band-aids or moleskin on spots that rub. This will prevent blisters before they start.

When all else fails, consider using shoe stretchers. These can help widen tight areas for a better fit.

Checklist to Break in Wedding Shoes

• Wear shoes around the house
• Practice on different surfaces
• Wear socks with the shoes
• Gently bend stiff shoes
• Apply band-aids or moleskin
• Use shoe stretchers if needed

Prepare Playlist or Song Requests for DJ/Band

Preparing your wedding playlist or song requests for the DJ/band is a fun and important task. It helps make sure your reception is enjoyable and reflects your taste in music.

Start by making a list of must-play songs. These might include your favorite dance tracks, songs that bring back memories, and special tunes for key moments like the first dance, father-daughter dance, and bouquet toss.

Create a “Do Not Play” list. It’s important to let your DJ know which songs or genres you dislike. This helps avoid any awkward moments or songs that might ruin the mood.

Think about the flow of the evening.

Organize your playlist to match the different parts of your reception: cocktail hour, dinner, and dancing.

A good mix of upbeat and slow songs keeps the energy balanced and guests happy.

Provide the list to your DJ at least a month before the wedding. Discuss any special requests and the overall vibe you want for your reception.

This ensures the DJ knows your preferences and can prepare accordingly.

Make room for guest requests, too.

Allow guests to request songs during the reception. This can add an element of surprise and keep everyone engaged.

Just make sure the DJ knows which songs to avoid from your “Do Not Play” list.

Here’s a simple checklist to get you started:

• List of must-play songs
• “Do Not Play” list
• Playlist for key moments
• Discuss with DJ/Band
• Allow for guest requests

Confirm Transportation Arrangements

One month before your wedding, it’s crucial to lock down transportation. Make sure you’ve arranged rides for you, your wedding party, and your guests.

Create a call sheet with names, addresses, and pickup times for everyone. This helps keep things organized.

For out-of-town guests, arrange shuttles or rented buses. Ensure they have all the details about pickup and drop-off points.

Communicate with your car company. Confirm all bookings the day before and the morning of the wedding to avoid any mix-ups.

Here’s a quick to-do list to help:

• List all transportation needs
• Book vehicles and drivers
• Share schedule with guests and drivers
• Confirm bookings twice (day before and the morning of)

Obtain Marriage License

One month before your wedding, it’s time to focus on obtaining your marriage license. Without this crucial document, you won’t be legally married.

Steps to Obtain Your Marriage License:

1. Visit the County Clerk’s Office: Check what documents you need to bring. Usually, you’ll need identification like a driver’s license or passport, proof of residency, and sometimes a birth certificate.
2. Fill Out the Application: Both you and your partner must usually fill out the application form together. Bring all needed documents to avoid delays.
3. Pay the Fee: There is often a fee for the marriage license. This fee varies by location, so check in advance.
4. Wait for Approval: Some places issue the license immediately, while others may take a few days or even weeks. Plan accordingly.

Important Tips:

• Check Specific State Requirements: Each state has different rules and processing times. Some states may require a waiting period between applying and receiving the license.
• Book an Appointment: To save time, book an appointment at the County Clerk’s office if possible. This helps avoid long lines.
• Know the Expiration Date: Marriage licenses usually expire within 30-90 days after being issued. Don’t apply too early.

After the Wedding:

• Marriage Certificate: After your wedding, your officiant will sign the marriage license and send it back to the county clerk. Then, you can obtain your marriage certificate, which is proof of your marriage.
• Order Copies: Some states automatically send you a certified copy of your marriage certificate. If not, you might need to order and purchase additional copies.

Prepare Tips and Gratuities for Vendors

Make sure to prepare tips and gratuities for your wedding vendors a month before your big day. This helps you avoid any last-minute stress and ensures everyone is appreciated for their hard work.

Start by making a list of your vendors. This can include:

• Catering staff
• Setup and delivery workers
• Photographers
• Coordinators

Tip amounts vary depending on the type of service provided. Here are some guidelines:

• Catering staff: If gratuity is not included in the contract, tip 15-20% of the total bill, or consider $50-$100 for each chef and $20-$50 per server.
• Delivery and setup staff: $10-$50 per person.
• On-site coordinator: $100-$200.

Prepare envelopes for each tip. Label each envelope with the recipient’s name and role. Keeping a few extra envelopes on hand can be a good idea in case you need them.

Reach out to your wedding planner or venue coordinator for help.

They can help you estimate how many staff will be on-site, ensuring everyone involved gets recognized.

Don’t forget to assign someone you trust to distribute the envelopes on the wedding day. This helps ensure that you’re not distracted and everything goes smoothly.

Finalize Wedding Day Look and Accessories

The time has come to perfect your wedding day look. Start with a makeup trial.

This is a great way to ensure your bridal makeup is exactly what you want. Bring photos of looks you like and be open to adjustments.

Next, schedule a hair trial.

Experiment with different hairstyles to find the one that complements your dress. If you have any hair accessories like veils or pins, bring them to the trial.

Don’t forget about the dress fitting. Have your final fitting and make sure the dress fits perfectly.

Bring your shoes and any undergarments you plan to wear to get the full effect of your outfit.

For the groom, check that the tux fits well.

Any last-minute alterations should be done now to avoid stress on the big day.

Make sure all your bridal accessories are ready.

This includes your veil, jewelry, shoes, clutch, and any special items like a garter or heirloom pieces. Lay them out to see if anything is missing.

Pay your vendors early to avoid any issues.

Bring payment envelopes to the event if needed, and assign a trusted friend to handle them.

Book final beauty treatments like facials, manicures, and pedicures.

These will help you feel pampered and confident.

Don’t forget a run-through of your bridal look.

Try everything on together, including your dress, shoes, and accessories, to make sure it’s flawless from head to toe.

Prepare Wedding Day Survival Kit

It’s smart to have a wedding day survival kit on hand. This kit keeps you ready for minor emergencies during your big day.

A good survival kit includes:

Fashion Fixes:

• Safety pins
• Sewing kit
• Double-sided tape

Makeup and Beauty:

• Blotting papers
• Lipstick
• Mini hairspray

Comfort and Health:

• Pain relievers
• Band-Aids
• Baby powder

Personal Needs:

• Tissues
• Hand sanitizer
• Snacks

Miscellaneous Essentials:

• Phone charger
• Stain remover pen
• Breath mints

Packing Tips:

• Use a small bag or box to keep everything together.
• Assign someone to be in charge of the kit on the wedding day.
• Check the contents a few days before to make sure everything is there.

Confirm Rehearsal Dinner Details

With just one month to go, it’s time to confirm the rehearsal dinner details.

First, finalize the venue. Make sure the location is booked and all deposits are paid.

If you need to make any adjustments, now is the time to do it.

Next, check your guest list. Ensure everyone who needs to be there, including the wedding party and close family, has been invited.

Send out rehearsal dinner invitations. These can be mailed or emailed, just make sure they include the date, time, and location. Mention any dress code or special instructions.

Discuss the menu with the venue or caterer.

Choose dishes that are tasty but not too complex, to avoid any last-minute hiccups.

Create a simple timeline for the evening.

Typically, the event starts with a rehearsal of the ceremony, followed by the dinner and any toasts or speeches.

If you plan on giving gifts to the wedding party or parents, ensure they are ready.

Wrap them in advance to avoid any last-minute stress.

Make sure there are enough seats and the table arrangement fits the number of guests.

Check if the venue needs you to provide a seating chart.

Finally, plan any decorations or personal touches you want to add to the venue.

Keep it simple to maintain a stress-free setup.

Prepare Wedding Day Stationery (Programs, Menus, etc.)

Start by making a detailed list of the stationery you’ll need for your wedding day. This includes programs for the ceremony, menus for the reception, and place cards for seating arrangements.

Ceremony Programs

Create programs to guide your guests through the ceremony. Include the order of events, names of participants like the officiant, and any special readings or songs.

Programs can be simple or elaborate, depending on your style.

Menus

Design menus to showcase the food and drink options at your reception. List appetizers, main courses, desserts, and beverages.

This helps guests know what to expect and accommodate any dietary needs.

If you’re having a buffet, you can create one large menu or smaller ones for each table.

Additional Stationery

• Place Cards: Direct guests to their seats.
• Table Numbers: Help guests find their assigned tables.
• Welcome Signs: Greet your guests as they arrive.
• Thank You Cards: Show appreciation to your guests after the wedding.

Use consistent designs, colors, and fonts for all your stationery to keep a unified look.

If you choose to DIY, gather all supplies early. For printed materials, place your orders well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.

Prepare Wedding Day Attire for Bridal Party

Make sure your bridal party looks great by preparing their attire a month before the wedding.

Organize final dress fittings for everyone. For the bridesmaids, confirm that dresses fit well and make any needed alterations.

It’s also important to check the groomsmen’s attire.

Schedule tux fittings to ensure the right fit. Make sure shoes, ties, and other accessories are ready.

Create a checklist to keep track of each member’s fitting appointments and any special needs. This helps avoid any last-minute surprises.

Communication is key. Make sure everyone knows when their fittings are.

Don’t forget accessories. Confirm that everyone has their shoes, jewelry, and other items.

You might want to provide matching accessories such as earrings or cufflinks to keep the look cohesive.

Group photos are an important part of the day. Coordinating attire in advance makes these moments picture-perfect.

Set up a group chat with your bridal party. This helps with reminders and ensures everyone is on the same page.

Lastly, store all attire in a safe, clean place. You don’t want any last-minute mishaps!

Prepare Wedding Night Bag

When packing your wedding night bag, think about comfort and essentials.

Start with the basics:

• Pack a hairbrush, hair accessories (clips, bobby pins, hair ties), and makeup products.
• Remember to include makeup remover.

Don’t forget your outfit:

• Bring comfy pajamas, slippers or socks, and a change of underwear.
• Pack a second-day outfit with matching shoes and accessories.

Special items:

• You might want to include wedding night lingerie and a cozy robe.

Toiletries:

• Include toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and any skincare products you use.

Essentials:

• Make sure you pack any medications you need, phone charger, and some snacks in case you get hungry.

By organizing these items ahead of time, you’ll ensure a comfortable and relaxing night.

Confirm Accommodations for Out-of-Town Guests

One month before the wedding, it’s critical to confirm accommodations for your out-of-town guests.

This ensures that everyone has a comfortable place to stay and can focus on enjoying your special day.

First, review the list of out-of-town guests and the hotels where rooms were blocked.

Confirm with the hotels to ensure that the reservations are still valid and that there are no issues. Double-check the number of rooms and make any necessary adjustments.

Next, reach out to your guests. Ask if they have made their reservations and if they need any help.

This is also a good time to provide any important travel information or updates. A friendly reminder can make a big difference.

Consider providing a welcome package upon their arrival.

This could include essentials like:

• Maps of the area
• List of local attractions
• Contact information for help during their stay

Also, include an itinerary for the wedding events to help them plan their schedules.

Make it personal and thoughtful—it shows that you care about their comfort and experience.

Provide a point of contact for any issues that may arise.

This can be a dependable member of the wedding party or a close friend. Make sure this person’s contact information is clear and easily accessible.

Lastly, if some guests haven’t finalized their plans, consider sending a friendly reminder email with all necessary details.

This will help ensure that everyone is taken care of and ready to celebrate with you.

Prepare Wedding Day Shot List for Photographer

Creating a wedding day shot list for your photographer is key. Start by listing the must-have photos.

Think about shots from getting ready to the reception. Include details like:

• Your dress on a hanger
• Jewelry and shoes
• You and your partner getting ready

Ceremony shots should cover:

• Walking down the aisle
• Exchanging vows
• That first kiss

For the reception, consider:

• Entrance of the wedding party
• Cake cutting
• First dance

Also, remind your photographer to capture small details like:

• Table settings
• The wedding cake
• Party favors

Create a printed copy of the list for the photographer. This helps them know what’s important to you.

A well-prepared list ensures you get the shots you want, making your memories last a lifetime.

Relax and Enjoy the Final Countdown!

With just one month to go, it’s time to focus on yourself.

Make relaxation a priority.

A good way to start is by scheduling a relaxing massage. A massage can help reduce stress and leave you feeling refreshed.

Remember the importance of beauty sleep.

Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night to keep your energy up and skin glowing.

Consider winding down with a good book or a warm bath.

Don’t skip breakfast.

Eating a nutritious breakfast kickstarts your day and keeps you energized.

Choose foods like yogurt, fruits, and whole grains.

Take breaks and enjoy moments just for yourself.

Listen to music, watch your favorite shows, or go for short walks.

These activities can help you stay calm amid the wedding preparations.