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Post-Wedding Checklist: Your Guide to Wrapping Up With Intention

June 27, 2025 | Junebug Weddings
post-wedding checklist

Image by By Siv-Elin

Your vows have been exchanged, the cake has been cut, and the last dance is behind you. So—what comes next? After the celebration winds down, there are still a few meaningful tasks to complete. From practical to-do’s like finalizing paperwork and payments to more thoughtful gestures like preserving your dress or donating your flowers, this post-wedding checklist will help you tie up every last detail. You’ve spent months planning a day full of love and meaning—now’s the time to close it out with that same care and intention.

Your Post-Wedding Checklist

1. Set Aside Items for a Keepsake Box

While you can’t keep everything, you can keep a little. We love the idea of creating a small keepsake box filled with details from your day—like a dried boutonnière, a copy of your invitation, a cocktail napkin, or a handful of toss petals. These tiny tokens can spark vivid memories for years to come. It’s perfectly fine to recycle most of your paper goods and resell any decor you no longer need, but don’t hesitate to tuck away the items that feel especially sentimental. Knowing a few special pieces will stay with you can make it easier to let go of the rest.

2. Donate Leftover Food and Flowers

One of the most overlooked post-wedding tasks? Deciding what to do with all the leftover food and flowers. Start by asking your caterer to package up any surplus that’s safe to donate. You can then coordinate with a local food rescue or nonprofit organization to arrange a drop-off the following morning. Some venues or caterers may even have donation partners already in place—just ask!

As for your flowers, don’t toss those gorgeous blooms. Donate them to hospitals, senior care facilities, or local charities that can repurpose them. You might also keep a bouquet or a single arrangement for yourself. For ideas on how to preserve your bouquet, check out this guide.

3. Return Rentals

Maybe a no-brainer for your post-wedding checklist, but make sure all your rentals—linens, glassware, suits, signage, and more—are returned on time. If you’re heading off on your honeymoon right away, assign this task to a trusted friend or family member to avoid late fees or replacement charges.

4. Finalize Wedding Payments

With the big day behind you, now is the time to square up any remaining balances with your vendor team. Many vendors require final payment shortly after the event, so review your contracts, track down outstanding invoices, and make sure everyone is paid in full.

same-sex couple on wedding day

Image by Katherine Elyse Media. See more of this wedding here.

5. Leave Vendor Reviews

One of the best ways to thank your wedding team is by leaving thoughtful reviews. Your kind words go a long way—especially for small businesses that rely on client testimonials to grow.

We recommend writing your reviews while the experience is still fresh. Not sure where to start? Choose three words to describe the professional (like “creative,” “organized,” “genuine”), explain how they made you feel during the planning and on the big day, and share how well they brought your vision to life. You can leave reviews on Junebug’s vendor portfolios, Google, or the vendor’s preferred website.

6. Preserve Your Wedding Attire

Whether you hope to pass your outfit down one day or simply want to preserve it as a meaningful keepsake, consider having your wedding attire professionally cleaned and preserved. Skip the standard dry cleaner—specialty preservation services will clean your gown or suit with expert attention to detail, then use archival techniques like acid-free materials and UV-protected packaging to keep it in pristine condition for years to come.

bridal portrait with greenery

Image by Ana Hinojosa

7. Handle the Legal Details

There are a handful of legal tasks to take care of after your wedding. While not the most exciting part of newlywed life, they’re important—and entirely manageable.

Here’s what to consider:

  • Certify your marriage license or certificate
  • Update identification documents if you’re changing your name (Social Security card, driver’s license, passport, etc.)
  • Review and update insurance policies (health, auto, life)
  • Update beneficiary designations on financial accounts
  • Create or update your will
  • Consider creating a postnuptial agreement

8. Start Planning for your Wedding Photos

We strongly believe your wedding photos deserve more than a folder on your desktop. Start researching wedding photo albums and print services so that once your gallery is ready, you’re prepared to create something tangible and lasting. 

9. Send Thank You Notes

Now’s the time to express your gratitude to everyone who celebrated with you. Whether you’re sending handwritten notes that match your wedding stationery or choosing a digital option for sustainability and speed, a heartfelt thank you goes a long way. 

Love a good checklist? We’ve got more to help you stay organized. Check out our wedding planning checklist, decor checklist, and honeymoon checklist to keep everything on track from start to finish.

post wedding checklist

Image by EFEGE

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Use This Wedding Decor Checklist to Help You Nail Every Detail

October 22, 2024 | riley

Image by Nomad by NK

Planning a wedding is no small task, especially when it comes to decor. There are so many moving pieces, especially when your venue is a blank slate. With all the details you need to consider, it’s easy to forget something. That’s why we’ve put together this simple, stress-free wedding decor checklist to make sure you’re covering all the bases. Whether you’re going for a grand celebration or a more laid-back vibe, this checklist will help you keep everything in order.

Wedding Decor Checklist

Wedding Ceremony Decor

The ceremony is the heart of your wedding, but it’s also usually over pretty quickly. That means there’s no need to break the bank here. We suggest focusing on what matters most: seating and a beautiful backdrop. These key elements are all you need to make your ceremony feel personal and polished. However, if you envision a few more details, here is our complete list of wedding ceremony decor options.

Image by Kailash Wedding

Cocktail Hour Decor

Cocktail hour is where the fun begins! While the reception is packed with activities, it’s during the cocktail hour that your guests have a chance to mingle and socialize. It’s worth dedicating some of your decor budget here to make it inviting—think about the bar, snack tables, and maybe a few lawn games to keep things lively.

Wedding Reception Table Decorations

Your reception tables are where your guests will spend most of their time, so this is where you can really show off your style. Whether it’s through elegant centerpieces or personalized table settings, the right decor will set the vibe for the evening. Just remember, here at Junebug Weddings, we celebrate the uniqueness of every wedding and believe that its beauty lies in your personal touch.

Image by ANNOVA

Wedding Reception Decor

Last, but certainly not least, is your wedding reception as a whole. As we mentioned earlier,.the reception is where guests will spend the majority of their evening, making it the ideal opportunity to invest in decor that leaves a lasting impression. It’s also the place where you can flex those creative muscles and potentially step outside of the box.. From neon signs to epic seating charts to giant balloons, this is the perfect time to express yourself.

Pro Tip: Pin this wedding decor checklist for easy access as you plan, or download the spreadsheet to keep on hand and stay organized throughout your wedding journey.

If you need more help in crafting the wedding of your dreams, check out our list of planner & designer recommendations. Looking for more checklists to prepare for your big day? Our wedding planning checklist is perfect for you!

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The Ultimate Elopement Planning Checklist

July 10, 2024 | riley

There are many benefits to choosing a small wedding. A smaller guest list allows for more meaningful interactions with your partner and loved ones in attendance, creating a more personal atmosphere. Opting for a micro wedding or elopement can also significantly reduce your wedding planning tasks. However, that doesn’t always mean planning an intimate affair is easier. There’s still a list of essential tasks you need to complete to achieve your dream wedding, regardless of its size.

If you’re dreaming of an elopement, your planning process will look slightly different from those organizing a large traditional wedding. To help you get started, here’s the only elopement checklist you’ll need for your intimate day.

1. Set a Budget

Before diving head first into wedding planning, you’ll need to have a clear understanding of your wedding budget. This will be key in determining your location, vendors, and so much more! That magic number will help guide your decisions, helping you find options that fit within your financial limits.

Start by sitting down with your partner to discuss your overall budget, and then break it down into categories such as venue, vendors, decor, fashion, etc. If you’re planning a destination wedding, don’t forget to include travel and accommodation. Having a well-defined budget will ensure you can prioritize what matters most to you and make informed choices throughout the planning process.

2. Pick a Location 

Picking a location is a crucial decision for any wedding. Some couples choose to stay local, visit a sentimental place, or take a chance on a new wedding destination altogether. Whether you’re dreaming of running away to Italy or sticking with a meaningful local spot, you need to make this choice before searching for Vendors or venues. Your location will influence everything from your vendor options to travel arrangements, so choose wisely to ensure it aligns with your vision for the big day.

Photo by Anais Possamai Photography. See more of this real elopement here.

3. Choose a Date 

Once you have determined your wedding location, it’s time to secure a date. Your date might be influenced by your desired venue’s availability, but those who plan well in advance will be given more flexibility. This allows you to consider other important factors rather than just picking a random wedding date.

Before finalizing your wedding day, consider your favorite season, weather conditions, and the best time to explore your chosen location. These will help guide your selection process and ensure your special day is all that you’ve dreamed of. 

4. Draft a Guest List while Elopement Planning

Many couples are breaking free from traditional wedding planning rules. And while traditionally, eloping meant just the couple, that’s not necessarily the case anymore. If you want a few close family members and friends to join you on your special day, go for it. Sit down with your partner and make a list of those you can’t imagine your day without. 

Narrowing your guest list to a handful of important people may be easier said than done. If you need help determining who will be invited to celebrate with you on your special day? This guide on how to trim your guest list will help.

5. (If Inviting Guests) Send Out Invitations 

If you’ve decided to invite a handful of people, send out invitations as soon as you’ve secured the date, location, and finalized the guest list. Even with fewer attendees, it’s important to provide them with all the wedding details. Whether you opt for physical invitations or e-vites, send them out months in advance. This is especially important for those planning a celebration abroad to give your guests ample time to prepare.

Photo by Zoe Steindl Photo. See more of this real elopement here.

6. Hire a Professional Photographer and Videographer

When eloping, prioritize hiring a photographer and videographer. Ultimately, the reason you choose an intimate wedding is to focus on what matters most: your love. The last thing you want to worry about is capturing all the memories yourself—leave that to the professionals. These photos and videos will also serve as a keepsake for you and a heartwarming way to share your special moments with loved ones not in attendance.

When researching photographers and videographers, seek out professionals who specialize in elopements. Review their websites, portfolios, social media accounts, and client testimonials as you consider vendors. When you find your dream vendors, hire them immediately, as their expertise will be invaluable throughout your planning process. They’ll be well-prepared, offer useful planning tips and ideas, and know how to capture the swoon-worthy shots you desire. 

7. Finalize Your Vendor Team 

As we’ve mentioned, just because you’re planning a smaller celebration doesn’t make the process any easier. Don’t feel like you need to sacrifice help just because it’s an intimate affair for two. Regardless of your wedding size, hiring a wedding planner is always a good idea—especially for those planning a destination wedding. They can handle the essential details while you relax and enjoy the process.

Additionally, you can collaborate with a florist to create a stunning bouquet or work with a bakery to design your perfect cake. Ultimately, the choices are entirely yours to make.

8. Verify Legal Requirements for Marriage

Marriage requirements will differ based on your wedding location. This is where hiring local, experienced vendors will pay off. They’ll be able to guide you through the legal process to make sure your wedding runs smoothly and you get all the necessary paperwork sorted before saying, ‘I do.’ 

Here are a few things you’ll be expected to take care of before your wedding. While these are just guidelines, you’ll want to check with the country or state you’re tying the knot in for their specific requirements so you don’t miss a thing. 

  • You’ll need to get your marriage license within the specified time window for your wedding location.
  • Collect all other legal documents you might need, such as birth certificates, affidavits, blood tests, visas, etc.
  • Determine whether you need a witness or two before you jet off to tie the knot.
  • Ensure you hire an officiant who’s legally authorized to perform the ceremony.
elopement planning

Photo by Sarah Everything Photography. See more of this elopement inspiration here.

9. Secure Necessary Permits and Licenses 

You won’t need to worry about this logistical hurdle if you’re getting married in a venue or on your own private property. But from those getting married in public spaces, like national parks or on the beach, you’re most likely going to need a permit. This can be a lengthy and confusing process. That’s why working with a wedding planner or an elopement photographer who will take care of all of these details for you is an invaluable investment.

10. Book Travel and Accommodations

With all the essential details finalized, it’s time to book your travel and accommodations. If your destination isn’t within driving distance, you’ll need to book those flights. Don’t forget to secure your hotel or Airbnb as well. For international weddings, arranging your flights and accommodations 4-6 months in advance to get the best deals is best.

11. Purchase Wedding Bands 

Wedding bands are symbols of your marriage. Being such an important portion of your ceremony, you’ll want to make sure you try on a variety of different styles and fits to see which catches your eye. This is a detail you’ll want to have sorted months before your big day, leaving room for resizing if necessary. 

From understanding who traditionally pays for them to find the right jeweler, more goes into the decision. To ensure you’re well-equipped with all the information you need to know to get the ring of your dreams, read over our breakdown of everything you need to know about buying and styling wedding bands.

12. Shop for Wedding Outfits 

If you’re looking for ways to involve loved ones in your elopement, shopping for your wedding attire is a perfect opportunity. Whether you dream of a traditional white wedding dress, a colorful suit, or a funky jumpsuit, make sure your outfit and accessories make you feel your best. Remember, when you look back at your photos, you’ll be glad you took the time to choose something that makes you shine.

13. Strategically Pack Wedding Attire  

Planning a destination elopement comes with its own challenges, especially when it comes to packing. Let’s be honest, cramming your precious gown or tux into a suitcase isn’t ideal. So, if you’re planning a wedding that’s not within driving distance, you’ll need to think carefully about how to transport your attire safely and efficiently.

To ensure your wedding outfit arrives safely and on time for your big day, here are a few tips on traveling with your wedding dress.

14. Write Your Vows 

If you’re planning an elopement, you’re likely the type of couple that doesn’t stick to traditional wedding planning boundaries. Odds are you’re dreaming of a celebration that authentically celebrates your love. So, why not read your vows to each other? Handwriting your vows is a sweet and sentimental way to personalize your ceremony. It allows you to express your intimate emotions in your own words, which will make your celebration even more special.

15. Plan a Post Elopement Party 

Now that your celebration is over, you might want to share the joy with family and friends who couldn’t attend. The best way to do this is by planning a post-elopement party. It’s a chance to recount the story of your special day and share your photos and videos. Whether you opt for a laid-back backyard cookout or a lavish celebration, it’s a wonderful way to include everyone in the festivities. 

Though eloping is a small and intimate affair, it doesn’t have to be boring or lack sentiment. There are many ways to turn your elopement, whether local or international, into an ultra-special day. If you’re looking for sweet ways to make your big day unique, check out our roundup of elopement planning ideas that will take your wedding to the next level, ensuring it feels truly special.

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Use This Honeymoon Checklist to Help You Pack All the Essentials

April 19, 2023 | Junebug Weddings

Image by Emily Klarer

You’ve found the perfect honeymoon destination, now it’s time to decide what to pack for the best vacation of your life! This handy honeymoon checklist has all the essentials you’ll need, plus a few add-ons for either a beach getaway or a snowy mountain escape. Simply pin the checklist at the bottom of this post for quick and easy reference, and rest assured you’ll have everything you need.

Honeymoon Checklist

Documents

  • Driver’s license and/or another form of identification
  • Passport
  • 2 photocopies of ID & passport/visa
  • Plane tickets
  • Printed booking confirmations
  • Medical insurance cards
  • Travel insurance
  • List of emergency contacts
  • Credit cards & cash

Image by Alison Vagnini

Clothing Basics You’ll Want

  • T-shirts
  • Layering tank tops
  • Blouses
  • Polos
  • Button downs
  • Jeans
  • Shorts
  • Skirts
  • Pants (casual & dressy)
  • Leggings
  • Cardigans
  • Sweaters
  • Dresses (casual & dressy)
  • Rain jacket
  • Bras
  • Underwear
  • Socks
  • Undershirts
  • Sleepwear
  • Workout clothes
  • Athletic shoes
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Evening shoes

Shop some of these basics:

Beach and Pool Additions You Might Need

  • Swimsuit
  • Cover up
  • Beach towel
  • Flip flops
  • Water shoes
  • Beach tote
  • Sun hat
  • Aloe vera

Shop beach and pool additions:

Accessories

  • Silicone wedding rings
  • Sunglasses
  • Reading glasses
  • Belts
  • Ties
  • Hats
  • Scarves
  • Jewelry
  • A crossbody bag
  • Evening clutch
  • Wallets

Shop accessories:

Toiletries

  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss
  • Shampoo and conditioner
  • Body and face wash
  • Lotions and moisturizers
  • Sunscreen for face and body
  • Deodorant
  • Razor and Shaving Cream
  • Cotton balls and Q-tips
  • Tweezers
  • Hairbrush, hair ties, and bobby Pins
  • Hair products
  • Hair tools
  • Feminine products
  • Contraceptives
  • Prescriptions and vitamins
  • First aid
  • Sewing kit
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Perfume and cologne
  • Makeup and makeup remover

Electronics

  • Cell phone & charger
  • Headphones
  • Splitter cable
  • Camera
  • Camera battery & charger
  • Extra memory cards
  • Power converter
  • Adapter

Miscellaneous Items That Might Come In Handy

  • A bag for dirty clothes
  • Ziploc bags
  • Small backpack or day pack
  • Playing cards
  • Ear plugs
  • Tide pen
  • Compact umbrella
  • Neck pillow
  • Luggage locks
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Books to read or a Kindle
  • Journal and pens

honeymoon checklist

Now that the stress of packing is off your shoulders thanks to this honeymoon checklist, tie up all the loose ends of your trip with this guide to planning your perfect honeymoon. Then kick that wanderlust into high gear with our list of romantic honeymoon destinations around the world!

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Use This Wedding Reception Table Checklist for Stress-Free Styling

March 5, 2023 | kailey

Image by Lina Dambrauskas. See more of this real wedding here.

Trying to nail every decor detail on your wedding day can be quite the undertaking—cue the stress. Between the ceremony, the cocktail hour, and the reception, it’s safe to say your hands are probably getting pretty full. That’s why we put together a handy wedding reception table checklist to ensure no detail gets overlooked. 

From standard decor to traditional place settings, we’ve got you covered with every item you could possibly need (or want) for your reception tables. 

Wedding Reception Table Checklist 

Essential Decor 

During the wedding planning process, it’s easy to get lost in all of the exciting details. That’s why we’re starting our checklist with the essentials. Though these aren’t the most fun elements to sort out, they tend to be statement pieces that play an integral role in your wedding reception. Here are the standard decor pieces you should plan before diving into your decor. 

Image by The Tinsley Co.

Place Setting Details 

Now it’s time to talk about dinnerware essentials. This is an important detail, especially for those planning a formal sit-down meal. 

  • Place setting cards & holders 
  • Charger plates — decorative base plates that sit beneath your dinner dishes 
  • Dinner plates 
  • Salad plates 
  • Flatware — salad fork, dinner fork, steak knife, butter knife, teaspoon, soup spoon, cake fork
  • Glassware — water glass, wine glass, champagne flutes 
  • Napkins & napkin rings
  • Printed menus 

Centerpieces 

Now that the essentials have been taken care of, it’s time for the real fun to begin—planning your decor. To give your tables a focal point, start with centerpieces. Work with your florist to plan and create arrangements that’ll enhance your overall reception design. This can be done with fresh blooms or even greenery garlands. The possibilities are absolutely endless. 

Are flowers or greenery not part of your vision? Skip them and mix and match different accent pieces to create the ultimate centerpieces. 

Accent Decor 

When centerpieces are taken care of, you can then dress them up with accent decor. These items can be rented, thrifted, or even purchased online at stores like Amazon. Though they tend to be small details, they’ll greatly impact your overall look. Here are a few accent decor ideas that’ll get your creative juices flowing. 

  • Tall or short vases
  • Wine or vintage bottles 
  • Mood lighting — taper candles, tealight candles, lanterns
  • Candlestick holders 
  • Geometric pieces
  • Terrariums
  • Books or book pages 
  • Globes 
  • Fruit
  • Shells
  • Driftwood
  • Wood rounds
  • Antlers 
  • Geodes or crystals

After running through this checklist, every detail regarding your reception tables should be complete. And while you’re one step closer to the big day, there are still a few details that need to be sorted out. One of those important details being the sweetheart table—a two-person set up solely for the newlywed couple. 

If this is something you’re incorporating into your reception design, check out these gorgeous ideas for styling your sweetheart table. From chair styles to decor inspiration, we cover it all.

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Use This Wedding Flower Checklist to Incorporate Flowers Throughout Your Day

February 6, 2021 | riley

Image by Jumi Story. See more of this real wedding here

One of the most exciting parts of planning a wedding is figuring out the florals. They’re a beautiful, natural, and easy way to dress up your venue, wedding party, and everything in between. However, they also take up a large part of a wedding budget. If you’re meeting with your florist soon, have a checklist of all of the arrangements you want to be included in your big day. 

For some, this may just be bouquets and centerpieces. Other couples may want to deck out the space in florals galore. Whatever floral design you have envisioned, this wedding flower checklist will help you consider every type of wedding flower arrangement available to include for your “I do’s.”

Wedding Flower Checklist

Image by Me and Georgia. See more of this real wedding here

Wedding Bouquets

The bouquet is arguably one of the most important florals for your wedding day because it’s photographed throughout the day. If you’re going to splurge on any bouquets, make it this one. The wedding party’s bouquets will also get photographed. However, there’s nothing wrong with keeping them simpler if you want to save money.

Junebug Floral Tip: 

Bigger doesn’t necessarily mean more expensive. The cost of the specific fresh flowers you choose will make the price tag increase. 

Boutonnieres

Boutonnieres are an easy way for couples to match one another and the wedding’s color palette. Because these are typically smaller, you don’t need to worry about going over the top. If you prefer simple boutonnieres a flower or two will do. This also applies to any wedding party boutonnieres as well.

Image by The Tinsley Co. See more of this real wedding here

Aisle

If you want to decorate your ceremony space without spending a fortune, having floral aisle markers at the beginning and end of the aisle may be the perfect choice for you. This is an easy way to make a space feel decorated without being overwhelming. This is also ideal if you plan on having an intricate backdrop because it won’t take away from the decor.

Backdrop

Backdrop florals will be just that—the backdrop to your vows. They’ll be in every photograph taken of the ceremony so you want to make sure that you love them. From flower arches to a flower-covered chuppah to a hanging floral ceiling, there are many different ways to go about it. 

If you’re looking to save money on your wedding day, many other creative backdrop options don’t require flowers. This is entirely up to personal preference.

Tossing Petals

After saying “I do” and making your way down the aisle, you can give your guests fresh flower petals to throw during your wedding ceremony exit. Tossing petals make for memorable photos but they aren’t required. You can also use leaves, bubbles, streamers, or simply have guests clap during the recessional. 

Image by Sara Rogers. See more of this real wedding here

Bar Decor

If you’re having a bar at your wedding, there’s a good chance that many guests will spend a lot of the evening visiting it. So personalizing it with some floral arrangements is an excellent way to make it pop. One of the easiest and most affordable ways to do this is to repurpose flowers from your ceremony space.

Table Centerpieces

Your centerpieces get a lot of attention during the reception. Your guests will be looking at them all night long while they eat and socialize. Because of this, you’ll likely spend most of your flower budget on these pieces.

You also want to consider your sweetheart table. Many couples opt to have their sweetheart table florals differ from the centerpieces to help it stand out. For example, if you have large floral centerpieces on all of the tables, try a long floral garland for your table. This incorporates your flowers and differentiates the tables.

Cake

When putting together a flower budget, many couples forget about the cake. If you like the look of florals on your cake be sure to talk to both your baker and your florist during wedding planning. 

Image by Robert J Hill. See more of this real wedding here

Extra Wedding Florals 

One of the best parts about planning a wedding is making it entirely your own. This means the location, type, and size of flowers you choose are up to you, too. The ones we listed above tend to be the more traditional floral arrangements included in a wedding. But the sky is the limit!  

Here are other types of flowers to talk to your florist about.

Hair

Much like bouquets and boutonnieres, any hairpieces or accessories you wear will be in every single wedding photo. So if you want flowers in your hair, bring it up with your florist as part of your wedding flower checklist.  Work with your florist and hair stylist to determine how to include them so that the flowers stay in tip-top shape the entire day.

Guestbook Table

Along with the bar, the guestbook table will be a popular spot for your guests as they enter your ceremony, during dinner, and through the reception. Adding an arrangement or two is an easy way to dress up the table instantly. This is another table that would be an easy spot to repurpose wedding ceremony florals as well to save money.

Image by May Iosotaluno. See more of this real wedding here

Signage

From welcome signs to seating charts, there’s a lot of signage included at a wedding. And while flowers are definitely not necessary for signage, it’s an easy way to make a functional piece of decor stand out.

Now that you have a wedding flower checklist for your special day, it’s time to make a trip to your florist! To prepare for your consultation, be sure you have your mood board put together and ready to go over together. 

Image by Maria Bryzhko Photography. See more of this real wedding here

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The Ultimate Wedding Registry Checklist to Help You Fill Your Newlywed Home with All the Essentials

January 31, 2019 | Junebug Weddings

photo by Peyton Rainey Photography

Not sure where to start when putting together your wedding registry? We’ve teamed up with Zola to share the ultimate wedding registry checklist! Building your wedding registry can be overwhelming, but Zola makes it easier than ever to register for everything you need for your newlywed home from essentials for the kitchen and bedroom to gift cards for hotels and airlines to personalized cash funds for your honeymoon and more! Zola sells over 50,000 gifts from over 500 brands like Le Creuset, KitchenAid, Sonos, and even Airbnb and Delta!

The benefits of registering with Zola are truly out-of-this-world, from free shipping on almost everything to a 20% post-wedding discount for up to six months after your big day. Not only can you control when your gifts ship so you aren’t overwhelmed with box overload when you return from your honeymoon, but Zola offers free returns and virtual exchanges! Any gift can be converted to Zola store credit so you never receive a gift you don’t want. Plus, Zola credit never expires and can be applied to any gift or gift card sold by Zola.

Ready to check out all those essentials you can find on Zola to complete your wedding registry checklist?

Must-Have Traditional Gifts

Your wedding registry is the perfect opportunity to upgrade those basics like sheets and plates that you’ve had since you got your first apartment! ;) From fancier bedding to luxurious towels to the stand mixer of your dreams, don’t write off these must-have traditional gifts from your wedding registry checklist.

  • Stand Mixer
  • Dinnerware
  • Cookware
  • Barware
  • Coffee Maker
  • Towels
  • Bedding

SHOP OUR MUST-HAVE FAVORITES

KITCHENAID Artisan Series 5 Qt. Tilt-Head Stand Mixer

CALPHALON Classic Nonstick 10-Piece Cookware Set

WILLOW PARK Lawson Glossy Organic Dinnerware Collection

BROOKLINEN Luxe 4-Piece Core Sheet Set

RIEDEL Vinum Viognier/Chardonnay Glass

Cleaning & Organizing

Keeping a clean house has never been easier with literal robots to help you do it! A vacuum may not sound like the sexiest item on your registry, but we have a feeling a Roomba will be on the short list of favorite gifts you receive!

  • Robot Vacuum
  • High-Tech Trash Can
  • Closet & Laundry Organization

SHOP OUR CLEANING & ORGANIZING FAVORITES

iRobot Roomba 690 Wi-Fi Connected Vacuuming Robot

SIMPLEHUMAN Stainless Steel Rectangular Voice & Motion Sensor Trash Can

Newlywed Home Upgrades

A well-balanced wedding registry includes both functional items and fun pieces you’ve always had your eye on. Have you always wanted custom frames for the art in your home, a lush velvet arm sofa, a high-end speaker system, or even a home security system? Don’t be afraid to think outside of the box and ask for what you really want for your newlywed home!

  • Furniture
  • Home Security System
  • Custom Framing
  • Speaker System
  • Home Decor
  • Luggage

SHOP OUR NEWLYWED HOME FAVORITES

SONOS One: Voice Controlled Smart Speaker

FRAMEBRIDGE Gift Card

MANHATTAN COMFORT Vandam 2-Seat Velvet Loveseat

CALPAK ›Ambeur 3-Piece Luggage Set

Gift Cards

There’s an age-old question: what do you get for the couple who has everything? Our answer? Gift cards! If you’ve already lived together before your big day, you may already have many of the items on this list. That’s where gift cards to your favorite airline, fitness club, or streaming service come in handy! Hint: Airbnb gift cards are some of the most popular registry picks year after year.

  • Hotels & Lodging (like Airbnb and Hotels.com)
  • Transportation (like Delta and Uber)
  • Entertainment (like Hulu)
  • Charity
  • Health & Wellness (like Soulcycle and Zeel)

SHOP OUR GIFT CARD FAVORITES

AIRBNB $100 Gift Card

DELTA AIR LINES $100 Gift Card

UBER $100 Gift Card

STUBHUB $200 Gift Card

Cash Funds

Asking for cash on your wedding registry is no longer a faux pas, especially when paired with traditional registry gift items. The best way to go about requesting money is to be specific about where the funds are going – your honeymoon, buying a house, or saving for a new puppy! Zola allows you to upload photos and let guests know exactly where their gift is going. This way, they feel like they’ve contributed to an actual present instead of giving you a bucket o’ cash. And hey, Zola has the lowest cash fund fee in the industry – just a credit card processing fee!

  • Honeymoon Funds
  • Home Fund
  • Puppy Fund
  • Lifetime Supply of Coffee

 

Be sure to keep this wedding registry checklist handy as you head over to Zola to get started adding gifts to your registry!

 

Get $50 towards your Zola registry PLUS 20% off post-wedding when you sign up today!

Did you know that Zola is the only wedding planning app you need? They offer hundreds of free wedding website designs, beautiful save-the-dates and invitations, a guest list manager, and so much more. Start planning your wedding with Zola today!

This post is sponsored by Zola!

Sponsors
Email [email protected] to advertise on Junebug Weddings

This Checklist Has Everything You Need to Include on Your Wedding Website with Joy

February 13, 2018 | Junebug Weddings

photos by Peyton Rainey Photography and Chelsea Denise Photography

If there’s one part of wedding planning we don’t want you to stress over, it’s building your wedding website. Your wedding website not only gives your guests the information they need about when and where your wedding will be but also helps you keep up with RSVPs and answer every little question your guests may have before the big day. We’ve outlined everything you need to include on your wedding website to help you check every box and leave no question unanswered. To make the process even easier, we’ve teamed up with Joy, who we believe is the best in the wedding website business.

Joy is a free platform the allows you to create beautiful custom wedding websites. You’ll learn more about their extensive list of features as you read on, but a few of our favorites include the guest management tool and digital RSVPs, the photo sharing and live slideshow capabilities, and the app which allows guests to view the schedule, get event information, and even connect with other guests right from their phones.

Ready to make an amazing wedding website?

The Basics

Your Names

Your guests will write you cards and put your names on the gifts. Your side of the family may or may not know the spelling of your partner’s name and vice versa, so definitely make sure names are clear and in very legible fonts!

Your Wedding Date

Your wedding date needs to be prominently displayed. This is the most important information guests are looking for on your site.

Your Wedding Time(s)

Don’t forget to include the time of the wedding! It can be helpful to list a ceremony start time and a reception start time, especially if there is a break in-between. The more information you can provide, the better!

Your Wedding Location(s)

Your venue name and address should be as easy to find as your wedding date! Be sure to list both your ceremony and reception venues if they’re different. It’s also a good idea to highlight the city and state of your wedding for any out-of-town guests who may be looking for that info.

Wedding Countdown

Joy has a handy wedding day counter that you can include on your homepage! This is a great way to let guests know how long they have before the big day and get them excited as your wedding date nears!

Your Story

How You Met

Extended family and coworkers who made the guest list may not have ever heard the story of how you met, so now is a great time to tell it!

When You Knew

Everyone loves a great love story, so share yours with the people you’ve invited to celebrate it! Did you fall in love on a trip somewhere? Was it love at first sight? Who said it first or did you both just know?

The Proposal

How did the proposal go down? Inquiring minds want to know!

A Day in the Life

What do you each do for a living? How do you spend your weekends? Don’t forget to give a shout out to your pets!

Photos

Together Through the Years

It’s time to pull out all those grainy selfies and travel photos from the early days of your relationship! It’s fun to go down memory lane together and probably even more fun for your loved ones to see how your relationship grew as time went on.

Engagement Photos

You know those gorgeous photos you had taken recently? Your wedding website is the perfect place to show them off! Joy makes it simple to include images on every page of your wedding website, so choose your favorites and upload them directly to your site.

Photos of the Venue

It can be helpful to provide a photo of at least the outside, if not also the inside, of your venue so that guests have an idea of the vibe of your event and what to expect when they get there. Your venue likely has photos on their website or social media you can use for this purpose!

RSVP

Having a wedding website makes it easy for your guests to RSVP with just one click! Joy makes it even easier for you to collect the necessary information about each guest including whether or not they plan to attend, their mailing address (so helpful for those thank you notes!), dietary restrictions, and meal choice, as well as fun questions like their favorite song to get down to on the dance floor or their best marriage advice.

Schedule

From the days leading up to your wedding to the official send-off, let your guests know what events are scheduled! Be sure to include the start and end times, who is invited (family-only, all guests, etc.), details about the activities, the addresses, and the appropriate dress codes for each event.

Pre-Wedding

From activities and for out-of-town guests and get-togethers for reuniting friends to your rehearsal dinner, the week before you say “I do” may be filled with events your guests need to know about!

Day-Of

If you have a timeline available, we highly recommend including a schedule on your wedding website. Let guests know how early they need to arrive before the ceremony starts along with the expected times of the ceremony, cocktail hour, reception, and any other notable events or activities throughout your day. Joy makes it handy for your guests to keep up with all of the upcoming activities by allowing them to add each event to their calendar right there from your wedding site!

Post-Wedding

Will there be an after-party at your favorite bar or morning-after brunch at your new mother-in-law’s house? Let guests know what to expect if your sparkler send-off isn’t your last goodbye of the wedding weekend!

Wedding Party

Joy allows you to list and upload a photo of each member of your wedding party so your guests can get to know the special people who will be standing by your side at the altar. This can be a nice way to help guests put a face with a name before arriving at your wedding!

Travel Info

Airport Information

Especially if the city where you’re getting married has multiple airports, be sure to let your guests know which to fly into! It can be helpful to include information about how far the airport is from your venue as well as any information about shuttles or transportation.

Where to Stay

List any nearby hotels, including where you have booked room blocks, along with the nightly rates and contact information. For Airbnb, let your guests know what neighborhoods or areas to find a place close to your venue. Does your venue have accommodations? Let your guests know there are spots available to stay on site.

How to Get Around

In case your guests aren’t renting a car, provide some tips for getting around! What is the most reliable public transportation, how much does it cost, and when does it start and stop running each day? Does the city have rideshare services? Share links to the apps, your preference, or a promotional code if you have one!

What to Do in Town

Share your favorite local restaurants and must-see spots so that out-of-town guests can explore the city in the days leading up to your wedding.

Wedding Registry

Whether you have registered at one store or four, Joy allows you to link each of your wedding registries directly onto your wedding website!

FAQ

RSVP Deadline

We recommend listing this question first since it’s the most time-sensitive! Also, let your guests know if they can RSVP directly if they’ve forgotten to send or misplaced their physical mail card.

Plus Ones

Plus ones can be a bit sticky if not everyone gets one, so be sure to make clear what your expectations are. If the answer varies, direct your guests to their invitations for information about whether they have been allowed a date.

Children or No Children Welcome?

Are you planning a kids-free wedding or are children welcome? Would you prefer only children over a certain age? If you have specific accommodations for children, like a play area or childcare, here is a good place to mention that as well!

What to Wear

What is the dress code for your event? Be specific, as terms like “creative black tie” aren’t always clear. Are there any colors your guests should avoid (hopefully white!)? If your wedding is outdoors or requires significant walking, be sure to let your guests know what shoes would be suitable.

Parking

Will there be a valet service, a parking lot, or a designated parking area? Should the allotted parking fill up, where can guests park? If there is limited parking available, be sure to recommend carpooling or using a rideshare service! If you have a preference or promotional code for a particular rideshare, include that information as well.

Indoors or Outdoors

Is your wedding indoors, outdoors, or a mix of both?

Accessibility

Is your venue wheelchair accessible? If there is a long or uneven path between the ceremony and reception spaces, will there be some sort of transportation provided?

Photos & Social Media

Do you have a hashtag for your wedding? Are you planning an unplugged ceremony or will guests be allowed to capture the moments on their phones? We recommend encouraging your guests to leave their DSLRs at home, as you’ve hired a professional to document the day and cameras can not only be a distraction but also get in the way of your hired photographer.

Dancing

Will there be dancing? Let your guests know if they need to bring their dancing shoes to your reception!

Maps

Joy makes being a wedding guest as easy as possible by having maps embedded in their site when you enter a location. This is super helpful so that no one has to type in the venue address and they can easily see the surrounding area.

Contact

Be sure to give your guests a contact email in case they have any questions. This doesn’t have to be your own email address! You may want to ask a family member or someone from your wedding party to be in charge of guest questions to reduce stress leading up to your wedding day. Just be sure to make it clear who the contact information is for!

Wedding App

In addition to your wedding website, Joy’s app allows guests to have all your wedding info stored on their phone with one simple download!

Pin This Checklist

Wedding planning should be a joyful time, not a stressful one. Start building your wedding website with Joy today!

*This post is sponsored by Joy. Thanks for supporting the brands that support Junebug Weddings!

Sponsors
Email [email protected] to advertise on Junebug Weddings

Show Your Guests the Way with This Wedding Sign Checklist

August 2, 2017 | Junebug Weddings

With so many details to manage, checklists are a God-send during the wedding planning process. Since you’ve already gotten started checking off details using our wedding decor checklist, we thought it was high time to get into the nitty-gritty of all those signs you’ll need for your wedding day. Signage may not seem all that important, but if you want to enjoy your day without stopping every ten seconds to answer questions like “When does cocktail hour start?” and “Where’s the bathroom?” then signs might just be the most important decor items in your whole wedding day! Show your guests the way with this helpful wedding sign checklist and shop each sign below!

Welcome Sign

photo by Autumn Cutaia Photography; see more from this wedding here!

SHOP THIS LOOK

 

Program Sign

image by Jonnie & Garrett; see more from this wedding here!

SHOP THIS LOOK

 

Order of Events Sign

photo by Free the Bird, see from this wedding here!

SHOP THIS LOOK

 

Unplugged Ceremony Sign

image by This Rad Love; see more from this wedding here!

SHOP THIS LOOK

 

Ceremony Seating Sign

photo by Jaicee Morgan; see more from this wedding here!

SHOP THIS LOOK

 

Directional Sign

photo by Daring Wanderer; see more from this wedding here!

SHOP THIS LOOK

 

Reception Seating Chart Sign

photo by Julia Wade Photography, sign by White Kite Studio; see more from this wedding here!

SHOP THIS LOOK

 

Dinner Menu Sign

image by Studio Castillero; see more from this wedding here!

SHOP THIS LOOK

 

Bar Menu Sign

photo by photo by Brett & Jessica; see more from this wedding here!

SHOP THIS LOOK

 

Dessert Table Sign

photo by The Hursts & Co.; see more from this wedding here!

SHOP THIS LOOK

 

Cards + Gifts Sign

photo by Plum & Oak Photo, signage by Emily Devitt Designs; see more from this wedding here!

SHOP THIS LOOK

 

Guestbook Sign

photo by Karra Leigh Photography, event planning by Dayna Salomon, signs by emiliebelle; see more from this wedding here!

SHOP THIS LOOK

 

Favors Sign

photo by Nicole Veldman Photography + Video; see more from this wedding here!

SHOP THIS LOOK

 

Reception Activity Sign

photo by Briana Purser Photography; see more from this wedding here!

SHOP THIS LOOK

 

Wedding Hashtag Sign

photo by Shaun Menary Photography; see more from this wedding here!

SHOP THIS LOOK

 

Quote Sign

photo by Raeleigh Photography, calligraphy by Dreams & Nostalgia; see more from this wedding inspiration shoot here!

SHOP THIS LOOK

 

Sweetheart Chair Signs

photo by Lauren Scotti, rentals by Lovegood; see more from this wedding here!

SHOP THIS LOOK

 

Pin this handy checklist to mark off each sign as you go!

Looking for more wedding sign ideas? Check out these 25 love quotes to display on your wedding day and these 34 creative wedding signage ideas!

Sponsors
Email [email protected] to advertise on Junebug Weddings

16 Guests in the South of France: A Simple & Elegant Dinner Wedding

July 5, 2025 | marissa

What happens when you combine the warmth of a close-knit gathering with the breathtaking beauty of Provence? For Karli and Kurt, it meant hosting a South of France wedding that felt more like a vacation with their favorite people than a traditional event. With just 16 guests and a private villa near Toulon as their backdrop, they planned a week-long celebration that was intimate, stylish, and deeply personal.

From the start, the couple envisioned something simple yet elegant—an atmosphere that felt relaxed but refined, and most of all, true to who they are. With the help of their planner and Junebug vendor Wonder Events, they brought that dream to life through thoughtful details, timeless design, and a vendor team selected with care.

What We Love About This South of France Wedding:

  • A courtyard ceremony where guests took turns “blessing” the couple’s rings
  • A thoughtfully styled dinner where every detail—from the flowers to the tableware—reflected the couple’s refined yet relaxed vision.
  • Personal touches like parasols for shade and a croquembouche tower for dessert
  • The couple’s decision to celebrate slowly, surrounded by loved ones over an entire vacation week

 

Featured Vendors:

Noella Wonder Events

Designing a Relaxed Yet Elegant Destination Celebration

Karli and Kurt kicked off their South of France wedding plans by securing a private villa just outside Toulon. A space that felt comfortable and private, yet still elevated enough to host such a meaningful event. “They wanted something that felt like home,” their planner shared. “The location gave them space to be present with their guests and enjoy every moment.”

With guidance from Wonder Events, the couple worked closely with a curated group of local vendors for florals, catering, beauty, and more. The planning process was designed to be stress-free, with their planner offering support from start to finish: “They simply chose the vendors they felt most connected to, both personally and financially.”

Creating Ceremony Moments That Felt Meaningful and Personal

One of the most touching moments of the day was the ceremony, held in the villa courtyard near a central stone fountain. With the sun casting soft light on the cobblestones, Karli and Kurt stood hand-in-hand as one of their best friends officiated.

In a beautiful nod to togetherness, their wedding bands were passed from guest to guest, each person silently blessing the rings before they were exchanged. It was a simple act, but one that gave their intimate guest count even deeper meaning.

Putting Dinner at the Heart of the Celebration

While every part of their South of France wedding felt intentional, the couple’s top priority was the reception. Set outdoors against the villa’s warm-toned facade, the long wooden table was styled with soft linens, taper candles, and artful clusters of seasonal flowers in pastel hues. Each place setting was layered with care—from knotted napkins and hand-painted plates to green glass goblets that added a subtle pop of color.

Shop the Tablescape:

 

 

The meal concluded with a croquembouche tower, a classic French wedding dessert of cream-filled choux pastries stacked in a cone and bound with caramel. It was a sweet ending to a day rooted in connection and joy.

Real Advice From Junebug Vendor Wonder Events

Wonder Events shared one final insight: “Karli and Kurt knew what they wanted from the beginning. It wasn’t about putting on a show—it was about curating a meaningful experience. And because of that, everything fell beautifully into place.”

The couple later left this heartfelt review:

“We cannot say enough good things about our experience with Noella. From the moment we started working with her to plan our wedding in the South of France, she made everything incredibly easy… Our expectations were high, but Noella exceeded them in every way. If you’re looking for a wedding planner who will go above and beyond to bring your vision to life, look no further. We would recommend Noella a thousand times over!”

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Intoo My Eyes
Event Planning – Noella Wonder Events
Venue – Mas des Bonnettes
Floral Design – Les Fleurs d’Alkonost
Catering + Dessert – Met Sens
Invitation Design – PS I Love You
Makeup + Hair Styling – Au Cœur d’Ambre
Rentals – Options

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Email [email protected] to advertise on Junebug Weddings
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