Updated: January 29, 2025
Your wedding day is one of the most anticipated events of your life. It’s the day you’ve dreamed of for months (or maybe even years!), and there’s so much to enjoy. Amid the hustle and bustle of the day, it’s easy to get caught up in the little details, but there are a few things you should absolutely do to ensure you get the most out of your big day. Here’s a list of 10 things you must do on your wedding day, so you can feel prepared, present, and totally in the moment.
Eat!
No one wants to be hangry on their wedding day. You’ve got a long day ahead of you, and you need fuel to keep your energy up. Start the morning off right with a good breakfast—it’ll give you stamina to power through the day. If you’re nervous, make sure to snack lightly throughout the morning. Things like fruit, trail mix, or a small sandwich are great options that won’t leave you feeling sluggish. Don’t forget to stay hydrated too! And whatever you do, make sure you take the time to enjoy your reception dinner. You worked hard to pick the perfect menu, so don’t let it go to waste.
Reflect.
Between all the pre-wedding jitters and the non-stop excitement of the day, it’s easy to get lost in the whirlwind. Take a few quiet moments to reflect on what this day is all about—your commitment to your partner and the beautiful future you’re about to build together. Whether it’s during the getting-ready process or after the ceremony, take a breather and focus on what truly matters. If you’re feeling anxious, just breathe and remind yourself of the love that’s at the core of it all.
Spend a Moment Alone with Your Partner.
After the ceremony, before diving into the reception chaos, take a few minutes to just be with your partner. This is your first few moments as newlyweds, so don’t rush through them. One great time to do this is while you’re waiting for your guests to clear out of the ceremony area so you can take photos. It’ll give you a chance to share a quiet, intimate moment before the rest of the day takes over.
Give Yourself Plenty of Time.
You’ve got enough to think about on your wedding day—don’t let time pressure add to your stress! The getting-ready process can take longer than you expect, especially with a full wedding party. Build in extra time to avoid feeling rushed, and give yourself some cushion just in case something goes wrong. (A personal note: one of my bridesmaids got locked out of her car right before we were supposed to leave for the ceremony—trust me, you’ll want that extra buffer!)
Take Mental Pictures, Not Just Photos
While you’ll have a photographer capturing every moment, make sure to take mental snapshots throughout the day. The moments in between the official photos—the laughs with your bridesmaids, the look your partner gives you when you first meet at the altar, or that instant when you’re surrounded by friends and family—those are often the memories you’ll cherish most.
Dance!
Even if you’re not a huge dancer, don’t skip out on hitting the dance floor. Your wedding is the perfect excuse to let loose and have fun with your friends and family. Plus, your guests will want to see you dance, so don’t disappoint! Whether you’re doing a first dance or joining your guests for a party, just let go and enjoy the music.
Thank Your Guests.
This one can easily slip through the cracks, especially when you’re in the middle of enjoying the day. But remember to thank your guests, whether in person or through a heartfelt toast. These are the people who have supported you and your partner, and they’re there to celebrate with you. A few words of gratitude will make them feel appreciated.
Take a Break If You Need It.
Wedding days can be overwhelming with so much going on. If you’re feeling exhausted or need a moment to collect your thoughts, don’t hesitate to take a quick break. Step away from the crowd, take a breather, or even go for a quick walk with your partner. Just a few minutes to reset can make a world of difference.
Be Present.
The biggest thing to remember on your wedding day is to be present. There will be a million things pulling your attention, but the more you can focus on the people around you, the more you’ll appreciate the day. The details will come and go, but the memories of the moments shared with your partner, your family, and your friends will last a lifetime.
Enjoy!
This is your day, so enjoy every second of it. You’ve put in months of planning, and now is the time to kick back and soak it all in. Sure, there will be things that don’t go exactly as planned (it’s all part of the experience!), but remember: this day is about celebrating the love you and your partner share. Make sure to take a step back and truly live in the moment. The day will fly by, so make sure you don’t let it pass without fully embracing all the magic.
Your wedding day is a celebration of love, and it should be just as joyful as it is memorable. Take the time to eat, reflect, and enjoy the moments that make it special. Here’s to a day full of laughter, love, and unforgettable memories!