Just married… Now what? here is what to do after the wedding!

Planning your wedding was an incredible journey, but what comes next is just as important. After the last dance and the final farewell, there are still some crucial steps in knowing what to do after the wedding to ensure your newlywed life starts off smoothly. From sending heartfelt thank-you notes to preserving your cherished memories, these post-wedding tasks will help you transition from wedding day bliss to everyday joy. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through everything you need to do after the wedding to keep the love and excitement going.

HERE COMES YOUR TO-DO LIST:

1. Take care of your marriage license

After your wedding, one of the first steps is to mail out your marriage license to ensure it becomes legally recognized. Typically, the officiant will provide you with the signed license, which you must then send to the appropriate county clerk’s office. Be sure to include any required fees and follow the specific mailing instructions provided by your state or county. It’s a good idea to use certified mail to track the delivery and ensure it arrives safely. Once received and processed, you will get your official marriage certificate, which you’ll need for name changes, joint accounts, and other legal matters. Keep a copy of the sent license for your records and patiently await your certificate, which usually arrives within a few weeks.

2. Send thank you cards

Start by making a list of everyone who attended and those who sent gifts. Personalize each card with a heartfelt message, mentioning specific gifts or moments shared during the celebration. Aim to send these notes within three months of the wedding to show timely gratitude. Consider using a tracking system to ensure no one is missed. Sending thank you cards not only expresses your appreciation but also strengthens the bonds you have with your loved ones, making them feel valued and remembered.

3. Write reviews to your wedding vendors

Writing reviews for your wedding vendors online is a meaningful way to show appreciation for their hard work and to help future couples in their wedding planning journey. Positive reviews highlight the exceptional service and talent of your vendors, providing them with valuable feedback and promoting their business. Your honest and detailed experiences can guide other couples in making informed decisions, ensuring they choose vendors who will make their special day perfect. Additionally, reviews contribute to the vendor’s reputation and can lead to more business opportunities for them. Taking a few moments to share your thoughts is a small gesture that can have a significant impact on your vendors and the wider wedding community.

4. Preserve your bouquet and/or your wedding dress

Preserving your wedding bouquet and dress allows you to cherish the memories of your special day for years to come. To preserve your bouquet, consider drying or pressing the flowers shortly after the wedding. This can be done by hanging the bouquet upside down in a cool, dry place or using silica gel for a more intricate preservation process. For your wedding dress, professional cleaning is essential to remove any stains or dirt accumulated during the celebration. Once cleaned, store the dress in a breathable garment bag or acid-free box to prevent yellowing and maintain its pristine condition. Proper preservation not only safeguards these sentimental items but also ensures they remain beautiful reminders of your wedding day, ready to be treasured or passed down through generations.

5. Change your legal name (if applicable)

Changing your legal name after marriage involves several steps to ensure a smooth transition. Start by obtaining a certified copy of your marriage certificate from the county clerk’s office where your marriage was registered. This certificate serves as proof of your new marital status. Next, update your Social Security card by filling out Form SS-5 and submitting it, along with your marriage certificate and identification, to the Social Security Administration (SSA). Once you receive your updated Social Security card, use it to update your driver’s license or state ID at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Notify other institutions and agencies of your name change, such as banks, employers, insurance providers, and the passport office, by providing them with copies of your updated identification. Each organization may have specific procedures and requirements, so it’s essential to contact them directly to ensure all necessary documentation is provided and your name change is properly processed.

6. Create a wedding album and print your images

Creating a wedding album or printing your images is a wonderful way to preserve and relive the memories of your special day. Start by selecting your favorite photographs that capture the essence and emotions of your wedding. Choose a reputable printing service or album provider that offers quality materials and customization options to suit your preferences. Design your album layout or choose from pre-designed templates that showcase your photos beautifully. Consider including special moments, like getting ready, the ceremony, and candid shots with family and friends. A professionally printed album not only preserves your memories but also becomes a cherished keepsake to share and revisit with loved ones for years to come.

BUY WHAT ABOUT MY HONEYMOON?

If you haven’t had a chance to go on your honeymoon right after the wedding, and now you’re are dreading the idea of having to plan and book another big event, I have some good news:

WE CAN HELP!

As an avid traveler myself, I decided to get certified as a travel agent to help couples plan big vacations or honeymoons and I am happy to say… Voyage by Kelly Jeanmaire is officially launched!