READ MORE FROM OUR 2026 WEDDING FEATURE HERE.
The Wearables
A week or more in advance, make a comprehensive list of everything you’ll wear on that day, from the suit down to the cufflinks and pocket square. Gather all of the pieces together in one place at least two days before the wedding. Make sure everything is clean, neat, pressed and ready to go. Then, double-check it all again the day before the wedding to avoid any unwelcome surprises.
The Odor-Fighters
On this of all days, you do not want to be the source of unpleasant odors. Pack deodorant, a toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash and mints.
The Toiletries for Touch-Ups
Put together a small travel kit with a brush and/or comb, whatever hair styling products you use, plus a razor and shaving cream, just in case you need them.
The Essentials
Although this is technically the best man’s job, you might want to be in charge of the wedding rings yourself.
The Extras
Typically, the groom gives his groomsmen a gift on the wedding day. Have them ready to go a week before, if possible. And while you are at it, it’s always nice to present your betrothed with a special something on the special day.
Expert Advice
Local wedding planner Heather Farr weighs in on how to conquer the seating chart
Q: My wedding is coming up this year, and the seating chart is stressing me out! We don’t even know where to start. Help!
Heather Farr: My biggest piece of advice – and this is frustrating because it hinges on other people sending their RSVPs in – is to have all of your RSVPs before you really plan the seating chart … because then you can make accurate groupings. Otherwise, you’re going to have to change it. My favorite method for making the seating chart is very old school: Get a sheet of poster board, draw tables on it and put everyone’s names on Post-it notes. Then you can move them around with ease.
We asked ChatGPT how it can help you with your wedding planning. Here’s what it said.
Build a Budget
AI can gather information about pricing and help build a budget that works for you, complete with spreadsheets and trackers.
Hone Your Prose
Feed AI your draft, be it the text for your wedding website, thank-you notes or even your vows, and it will polish them up. If you need help getting started, AI can do that, too.
Act as Your Concierge
Guests will have questions, so use AI to create a FAQ page for your wedding website. Start with your own list and then ask AI what other questions guests might have.
Serve as a Curator
When the wedding is over, keep AI busy by having it help sort photos, create highlight reels, and even write a keepsake story of how it all unfolded.
