Wedding Day-of Checklist
According to The Knot, the couples who feel calmest on their wedding day are the ones who prepared thoroughly in advance. Use this interactive checklist to track your progress.
Week Before
Final confirmations and preparations
Wedding Day Emergency Kit
Pack this kit a few days before and assign someone reliable to carry it throughout the day. You'll be surprised how many of these items get used!
Items to Bring Checklist
Bride
- Wedding dress and garment bag
- Veil / headpiece
- Wedding shoes (and comfortable backup pair)
- Jewelry
- Undergarments (strapless bra, shapewear)
- Robe for getting ready
- Makeup and touch-up essentials
- Perfume
- Something old, new, borrowed, blue
- Vows (written out)
- Gifts for bridesmaids
- ID and credit card
- Phone and charger
Groom
- Suit / tuxedo (all pieces)
- Dress shirt and undershirt
- Tie / bowtie and cufflinks
- Dress shoes and socks
- Belt
- Cologne
- Grooming items
- Wedding rings (both)
- Marriage license
- Officiant fee (cash or check)
- Vows (written out)
- Gifts for groomsmen
- ID, wallet, phone
For the Venue
- Ceremony programs
- Seating chart and escort cards
- Guest book and pen
- Card box for gifts
- Cake topper
- Cake cutting set
- Toasting flutes
- Unity candle / sand ceremony items
- Table numbers
- Centerpieces (if DIY)
- Favors
- Signage
- Tip envelopes for vendors
Typical Vendor Arrival Times
| Vendor | Arrival Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hair & Makeup | 4-6 hours before ceremony | Depends on bridal party size |
| Photographer | 3-4 hours before ceremony | For getting ready shots |
| Videographer | 2-3 hours before ceremony | May arrive with photographer |
| Florist | 2-3 hours before ceremony | For setup and delivery |
| DJ / Band | 2-3 hours before reception | Sound check and setup |
| Caterer | 3-4 hours before dinner | Kitchen prep and setup |
| Officiant | 30-45 min before ceremony | Final walk-through |
| Transportation | 15-30 min early | Buffer for traffic |
Pro Tip
Confirm all vendor arrival times the week before your wedding. Create a contact sheet with every vendor's name, phone number, and arrival time-and give copies to your coordinator, venue contact, and maid of honor/best man.
Frequently Asked Questions
Track All Your Wedding Tasks
From engagement to wedding day, our checklist keeps you on track with customizable tasks, deadlines, and reminders.