The Ultimate Last-Minute Wedding Checklist
The little things couples often forget, but won’t now.
Planning a wedding is a huge journey, and those final days can feel like a whirlwind. This checklist covers all the small-but-mighty tasks that make your wedding day run smoothly, look seamless, and feel calm from start to finish.
1. Final Admin & Vendor Prep
Send your final run sheet to all vendors, important family members and the wedding party.
Remind anyone giving a speech to keep it short, meaningful and clear.
Finalise your photo list with must-have shots and special requests.
If you’re unsure the venue will set up exactly as envisioned, hire an on-the-day coordinator (like me!) to take the stress off.
Tell your family where they’ll be sitting for the ceremony so there’s no confusion at the aisle.
Put your place cards in order of the seating plan to make setup smoother and faster.
Have a plan B for young kids in the ceremony (flower girls or page boys often get shy or overwhelmed in the moment!).
Check the weather forecast and prepare umbrellas, fans, shawls or heaters accordingly.
Tell your partner you love them and that you’re excited to marry them. It’s simple, grounding, and the most important thing of all.
2. Beauty, Fashion & Personal Prep
Make an emergency beauty kit (safety pins, tissues, lipstick, perfume, mints, deodorant, lint roller, bandaids, stain remover, powder and hair pins).
Wear in your wedding shoes the week before to avoid blisters.
Buy a second suit shirt in case the first one gets sweaty or stained.
Take the tags off all your outfits, including shoes, jewellery and suits.
Appoint someone to keep an eye on your makeup, hair, veil and dress throughout the day.
Appoint someone to keep the ‘getting ready’ space tidy, calm and positive all morning.
Pre-schedule food for the morning to avoid feeling light-headed or rushed.
3. Ceremony & Reception Details
Organise water vases at the reception so bouquets stay fresh through the night.
Appoint someone to take random photos and behind-the-scenes moments (a family member or a content creator).
Appoint someone to safeguard the wishing well and take it home as soon as formalities are over.
Appoint someone to collect all loose items from the venue at the end of the night (cards, candles, signage, clothing items, gifts, leftover cake).
4. End-of-Night Essentials
Have snacks and drinks ready at home or the hotel for when you arrive after the wedding.
Thank your family, vendors and venue staff before and after the big day. Gratitude always goes a long way.
Ensure you have the key to your accommodation or home so you’re not locked out at midnight.
If you need help bringing your wedding vision to life, from full planning or on-the-day coordination, I’d love to support you. Get in touch anytime to start creating your dream day.