5 Items To Do After the Wedding Day | Wedding Planning Tips
After the last bits of leftover wedding cake have been eaten and you and your new spouse have returned from a well-deserved honeymoon, it’s time to dive into the post-wedding to-do list. And while that can sound like an absolute nightmare, there’s some fun peppered in too! First things first, bask in that newlywedded bliss and enjoy every second of it - but when it’s time to dive back into real-life, go ahead and crack into your post-wedding checklist.
1. Send Thank Yous:
While many elements of wedding planning can be in the take-it-or-leave-it category, one wedding-related task is non-negotiable, and that is sending thank-you notes. Anyone who has been to a wedding knows that it is usually a big time and financial commitment, and while it’s well worth it, it can still be a lot. Show your gratitude by sending heartfelt thank-you notes to your guests for their love and support.
2. Keep, Donate, Toss:
Now that you’re officially a married couple, it’s time to decide what to do with all the wedding-related items. Consider which items you’d like to keep as cherished mementos, what can be donated to others in need, and what can be tossed. This includes everything from wedding decor to bridal attire, and even those extra favors you bought. Consider donating your "toss" items to another couple you know, or for free pickup through an app like Facebook Marketplace (please use safe practices when meeting with strangers).
3. Preserve the Memories:
Your wedding day was a whirlwind of emotion and joy. Preserve those cherished memories by creating a wedding album or organizing your photos and videos. Reliving your special day through photos and videos will bring back those beautiful moments for years to come.
4. Gather Legal Documents:
Make sure to update your legal documents to reflect your new marital status. First things first, obtain copies of your marriage certificate. This might include your deed, will, health care directives, and beneficiary designations on insurance policies and retirement accounts. It’s essential to ensure that your legal affairs align with your new life together.
5. Decide If You're Changing Your Last Name:
Many newlyweds consider whether or not to change their last names after marriage. If you decide to go through with a name change, you’ll need to update your identification, Social Security card, driver’s license, and other legal documents. This process can take time, so be prepared for a bit of paperwork and potentially some waiting in lines.
We've compiled a guide to changing your last name, plus the documents and tasks that follow, here: 21 Places to Change Your Last Name After Getting Married.
Remember, the period following your wedding is a special time for you and your spouse to settle into your new life together. While there are practical tasks to tackle, don’t forget to relish the joy and love you shared on your big day. The post-wedding checklist may seem daunting, but it’s also an opportunity to cherish the memories and look forward to a happy and fulfilling future as a married couple. Congratulations, newlyweds!
Photos: Danielle Harris Photography
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Editor: Chat GPT
