As the excitement builds and the big day draws near, it’s easy for little things to slip through the net. With just a month to go, many of my lovely couples find themselves wondering what they might have forgotten. So, whether you’re planning a traditional marquee wedding in the heart of the English countryside or tying the knot in a charming village church, here’s a practical last-minute checklist to help you feel calm and confident.
Jonny Gouldstone Photography
The Essential Emergency Kit
It’s always wise to have a well-stocked emergency kit on hand, just in case. Think of it as your bridal safety net. I always recommend including:
- Pain killers and indigestion tablets
- Safety pins and a mini sewing kit
- Plasters and blister plasters
- Perfume, lipstick, powder, and lip balm
- Tissues and sanitary products
- White chalk (perfect for covering light marks on dresses)
- False eyelash glue and a nail file
- Hairbrush, scissors, sun cream, and insect bite cream/spray
- A few snacks, just in case you need a quick energy boost
It’s a good idea to pack a small version of this for the ladies’ loo too – your guests will thank you later.
Evening Shoes & The Dress Bustle
If your dress has a bustle, make sure someone knows how to do it – a short video is ideal for this and you can ask your dress maker or bridal shop to do this for you at your final fitting. Also, trust me when I say you’ll be so grateful for a pair of flat shoes later in the evening. Dancing on grass or cobbles in heels is no small feat!
The Master List
Pull together a list of everything that needs setting up on the day – things like your guest book, gift bags for helpers, signage, and any personal items. It helps to assign someone (a planner or a trusted friend) to double-check that everything ends up where it should be.
Don’t forget:
- Pens for the guest book
- Reserved signs for ceremony seating
- A suite of stationery for your photographer to capture alongside your shoes, flowers, and jewellery
- Your “going away” transport and wedding night luggage – decide who’s in charge of getting it to your overnight accommodation
Family Photos
Nominate a family member who knows the key people to help gather everyone for group shots. It’ll make things run so much smoother for your photographer – and help keep timings on track.
Looking After Yourselves
This is so important: make sure you and your bridal party eat something while getting ready. It’s a long day and keeping hydrated and fed is the best way to enjoy every moment without fading before dinner.
Jonny Gouldstone Photography
Marquee-Specific Essentials
If you’re having a marquee wedding (which I adore), add a few practical items to your emergency kit:
- Scissors, string, blu tack, and tape (for any unexpected fixes)
- Dustpan, crumb brush, broom – yes, even for the dance floor
- Spare blank place cards and a nice pen for last-minute seating changes
- Spare cloths and lighters for candles – plus a few extra candles for good measure
These simple additions can make all the difference in keeping things running smoothly.
No matter how organised you are, there will always be a few last-minute details to check off. With this list, you can approach your final month with peace of mind and enjoy every beautiful moment as it unfolds.