Top 10 Things to Do Before You Go to a Destination Wedding

Traveling to a wedding to celebrate the union of two people is a joyous event. Traditional wedding invitations do give you some notice to prepare. You may know the location, date, and time, but what else do you need to know? How prepared are you for the unexpected? Have you asked all of the important questions?

Schedule.

Know the details of the event. Speak with the bride to be directed to the person who can answer all of your questions. You may be directed to the wedding planner, bridesmaid, or a close friend or family member. Read over the invitation or any instructions that you may have received, before contacting the organizer. Write down all questions that you have. Place your phone call. During this conversation be sure to obtain the organizers complete contact information to cut down on confusion if you need an answer on something important. Ask if there is website with additional information.

Proper Attire.

You must be prepared for all planned activities. Know the brides itinerary for planned activities. Bring appropriate attire, formal, swimwear, ski, upscale dining, and casual outings. You don't want to be the only person wearing jeans at a formal dinner.

Beauty.

Wax eyebrows, legs, and bikini area prior to arriving at your destination. If you are doing any type of procedure or treatment to your skin, do not do it the day before you leave. Give your body time to get rid of any redness or puffiness. Schedule yourself for a hairstyle, manicure and pedicure at a salon you have visited before. Do not count on satisfactory salon services being available at your destination.

Hair

Practice the hairstyle you want to be remembered wearing for years to come. Wedding photos are forever. Do not try a new hair style the day of the wedding. Especially if it is not anything like what you normally wear. For example, if you daily wear your naturally curly hair, do not straighten it, just because it is your wedding day. If your hair is naturally red, don't dye it platinum blond and alter its texture, because it looked great on Sue at her wedding. Aim for your style and personality to shine through your hairstyle.

Tanning.

Do not tan on the day before the wedding. Having sunburn will look painful in pictures that are taken. You do not want the pain from sunburn to interfere with any of the fun you will be having. Spray tans, do not always look natural. Photos do not lie. If you must be tanned, keep it to a "realistic" hue. If you have porcelain or a light toned skin color, think about what effect a tan will have on your make up selections on the day of the wedding.

Packing

Pack head to toe, and accessorize. Select accessories that will work with more than one outfit. Select your clothing and place jewelry, underwear, hosiery, and shoes together. Always have a pair of spanx or control top pantyhose with you, in case you gain a pound or two and want to be able to slide into one of the form fitting outfits you have packed. Include a nice robe or presentable pair of conservative pajamas in case of unexpected company at your hotel or hosts home. Since you have no control over the temperature brings thick socks or house shoes.

Image

Try on all clothes that you have selected. Be sure that you have not gained any weight since you last tried out that particular outfit. Inspect all buttons and zippers, and make sure that everything is in working order. Look at yourself in a full length mirror. When you see the reflection ask yourself, "Does this outfit reflect the woman I want to be?" You will know which outfits you want to be remembered in. Keep in mind that the attendees for the wedding will have their video cameras and digital cameras out, throughout the entire event.

Travel Funds.

Diversity travel funds. It is great to bring your credit cards, traveler's checks, or any gift cards that you would like to use. If you have received any restaurant gift certificates, bring those along as well. Have some cash available.

Travel Plans

Have realistic extra time available to reach your travel destination. If you are driving yourself to the airport, have written or printed directions if you have never driven yourself before. If you are taking a cab, or public transportation give yourself extra time. Have extra cash for bus, train, or cab fare. When depending on people for transportation allow an extra hour or so, in the event of any delays.

Share your itinerary with more than one friend or family member not going on the trip. Always let someone know where you are going, and whom you are traveling with. You must know how to get through airport security - Airport Security Tips for the Smart Traveler.

Memories

Do not forget your camera. Photo memories of the event are priceless. Ask your hostess in advance if professional pictures will be sent to the wedding guests after the wedding for purchase. This leaves the rest of the time for you to capture your memories and enjoy your loved ones.