What to Do the Night Before the Wedding

After months of planning, the week of the wedding is when everything comes together. There’s likely still a lot to do, but you’ll want to be relaxed and in a cheerful mood as you head to your big day. While it (hopefully) won’t affect your marriage, how you spend the night before could have an influence on your headspace during your nuptials. Though this is not always the case, the average bride will have the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner the evening before her nuptials, but there are still plenty of hours before it’s time to get some shuteye. A good night’s sleep is one of the best ways to prepare for your big day – especially if you have to get up early for hair and makeup – but that’s not always doable thanks to nerves and energy.

Here are some ideas to help occupy your time for your last night as a single woman:

If you need to relax: 
Should you feel stressed and anxious the night before your wedding, consider getting a massage or taking a nighttime yoga or meditation class to help center your mind and body. It’s not only good for your psyche, but also helps prepare your muscles for a full day of heels and dancing. 

If you need to keep busy:
Some people will have too much excess energy from excitement or nerves, and will find relaxing or sleep to feel impossible. If that’s the case for you, burning off that energy will be more helpful than anything else. Find a last minute craft to add a personal touch to your big day, do some cardio, or explore the city where your wedding takes place. 

If you need company: 
For extroverts, the best way to recharge is to spend time with other people. A welcome party following the rehearsal dinner will allow you to greet more of your guests before the big day. Having a date night with your soon-to-be spouse can be very romantic, though some couples prefer to keep with tradition and stay apart after the rehearsal dinner. If that’s the case for you, a slumber party with your bridesmaids might be just what you need – or even just a quiet night with your mom or other family members. 

Get tips for your wedding-day timeline and find out what to do after the big day.