Every single bride and groom need to have a pre-wedding checklist on hand. Preparing beforehand helps to avoid stress and make the big day flow more smoothly. A checklist for the week before a wedding should allow the couple to relax, knowing everything will be ready to go. Good preparation, keeping these must-dos in mind, makes the process a lot more enjoyable, and makes the big day even more special in the process:

1. Pick up your marriage license
You’ll need a license to make your marriage official. Before your big day, pick up all the legal documents you’ll need. Some couples choose to sign paperwork during the ceremony, while others prefer to do it before or after the wedding celebrations.

2. Secure your wedding rings
Wedding rings are an important part of the ceremony. Scott Kay men’s wedding bands are an excellent choice for men’s rings. It’s important to ensure you have both bands in plenty of time before the ceremony. Plus, you may need customization and sizing to make sure your wedding bands fit perfectly.

3. Try on your wedding attire and make final alterations
You’ll want to look your very best on your wedding day! Make sure everything fits perfectly and you have all the elements of your outfits before you head down the aisle.

4. Discuss a photo list with your photographer
Talk to your photographer to decide on the kind of pictures you want on your wedding day. Consider both indoor and outdoor locations for pictures you’ll want to remember.

5. Confirm the playlist with your band or DJ
Most weddings involve music for everything from walking down the aisle to celebrating on the dance floor. Make sure the DJ knows your favorite songs and has them ready to go once you’re at the venue.

6. Polish up and practice your wedding vows
If you are writing your own vows, now is the time to make any last minute changes or additions. Try reading them out loud to practice what you’ll say on the big day, and ensure you have copies printed out before you arrive.

7. Provide your vendors with a final headcount
By the week before your wedding you should know how many people will be attending. If someone has not yet sent their RSVP, now is the time to follow up. Contact them to find out if they or any other members of their party will be there.

8. Organize all payments to vendors
Make sure you pay everything due for the various elements of your wedding. If there are specific bills that need to be paid before the day of the wedding, make sure those are done with time to spare. This will ensure that none of your vendors fall through because of missed or late payments.

9. Pack for your honeymoon
If you’re planning to head off on a honeymoon, make sure you have everything set up before you leave. Even if you’re not leaving for a day or two after the wedding, packing in advance gives you some breathing space after the ceremony.

10. Get your bridesmaid and groomsmen gifts
You’ll want to thank all the people who’ve come with you on this important journey. Now is the time to let them know you care. If you’re planning to give gifts to the bridesmaids and groomsmen, now is the time to prepare those things.

11. Rehearse the ceremony
Everyone in the wedding party will need to know the plan and schedule for the day of the wedding. The wedding rehearsal is the time to ensure that the ceremony will go smoothly. Allow at least a few hours for rehearsal to ensure each person knows the part they need to play.