Congratulations, you’re officially married! The confetti has settled, the last dance has played, and the honeymoon is calling. But before you fully shift into post-wedding relaxation mode, there are still a few practical (and not-so-glamorous) things to tick off your list. Here’s your go-to checklist of everything you should take care of after saying “I do”, some of which you may not have thought about!
💌 Send Your Thank You Cards
Let’s start with the big one. Thank you cards might take a bit of time, but they’re a meaningful way to show appreciation to everyone who celebrated with you, gave gifts, or helped make your day happen.
When? Traditional etiquette says you have up to a year, but really, the sooner the better – ideally shortly after you return from your honeymoon.
Who gets one? Anyone who gave a gift, attended, or helped with planning. That includes family, friends, suppliers, and anyone who contributed to your day.
If you’re using a photo from your wedding for the card, ask your photographer how soon images will be ready, then order cards through your stationery designer or an online printer.
🌟 Leave Reviews for Your Suppliers
If your suppliers went above and beyond, shout it from the rooftops (or at least the internet). Leaving a glowing review can really help small businesses thrive.
If you were especially impressed, consider sending them a personal thank you card.
If you had a less-than-perfect experience, speak to the supplier privately first. Many issues are better resolved directly than through a public complaint.
🎀 Deal with Leftover Decor
Don’t let your decorations live in the boot of your car for the next six months.
Sell your preloved wedding items through groups like the HIGM PreLoved Wedding Stuff Facebook group.
Or, donate them to a charity shop or local community centre.
The sooner you pass them on, the less likely they’ll end up gathering dust.
🎁 Return Unwanted Gifts
Despite having a gift list, duplicates still happen (hello, three toasters).
As long as the items are unused and in their original packaging, most shops will accept returns or exchanges.
Be mindful of return windows and don’t wait too long.
🌐 Update Your Digital Spaces
Time to tidy up your online wedding footprint:
Close your wedding website or blog, especially if you’re paying for it.
Shut down any active online gift registries.
Update or archive any planning tools or apps you no longer need.
👗 Sort Out Your Wedding Dress
You’ve worn the dress – now what?
If you’re keeping it, have it professionally cleaned and properly stored to preserve it.
Want to pass it on? Sell it through HIGM’s preloved page or donate it to charity – a lovely way to help another bride.
Some couples choose to transform the dress into a christening gown or keepsake – another beautiful option.
Before selling, research prices of similar dresses to list it competitively.
🛡️ Review Your Insurance Policies
Update any policies that might be affected now that you’re married.
This includes car insurance, health insurance, life insurance, and home cover.
Update names where necessary, and consider combining policies – you could save money by having joint cover.
Never assume you’re automatically covered just because you’re married. Always double-check.
💷 Tackle Your Finances
Time to chat about money – honestly, it’s one of the best things you can do early on.
Decide whether you’ll use joint accounts, separate accounts, or a mix.
Set up any new accounts needed and organise direct debits for bills.
Ensure both your names are on shared utilities and services so you can both manage them.
Look into any tax benefits you might now be eligible for as a married couple – check official government resources for current guidelines.
🎉 Think About Your First Anniversary
It may seem early, but time flies! Planning something special in advance gives you something exciting to look forward to.
Some venues offer discounted anniversary packages for returning couples – ask if yours does.
The traditional first anniversary gift is paper, so plane tickets or a handwritten love letter could be perfect.
And of course, don’t forget to dig out the top tier of your wedding cake (if you froze it)!
✍️ Changing Your Surname?
If you’re taking your partner’s name, here’s what to know:
In the UK and Ireland, you can start using your new surname straight away – no legal name change process is required.
You’ll need to present your marriage certificate to update records with your bank, employer, GP, passport office, and so on.
Don’t forget to change your name on work email accounts and official documents like tax records.
💑 And Finally… Enjoy Being Married!
This list may seem long, but most of these tasks can be tackled in the first month or two after the wedding. Take them one at a time, and once they’re done, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy life as newlyweds, without any to-do list hanging over your heads.
