The big day is finally here! You’ve been planning this wedding for what feels like an eternity, and now it’s just a mere 24 hours away. As you wake up on the morning before your wedding, a wave of excitement and nerves washes over you. You jump out of bed, eager to get started on the day’s tasks, but before you dive in headfirst, take a deep breath. This is your time to savor the final moments before you become a newlywed.
To help you make the most of the last 24 hours, here are 8 things you should do in the day leading up to your wedding in Vancouver.
1. Have a Relaxing Moment
The morning, afternoon or night before your wedding are the perfect time to slow down and enjoy some quiet moments to yourself in the vibrant city of Vancouver. As one of Canada’s most beautiful and livable cities, Vancouver offers countless opportunities to savor tranquil moments amidst its stunning natural surroundings. Enjoy your day with leisurely food, whether that’s a simple bowl of oatmeal or an indulgent spread of pastries from your favorite bakery. As you sip your favorite drink, resist the urge to jump straight into wedding mode. Instead, take a few minutes to journal, meditate, or simply sit in stillness, letting the reality of your wedding day sink in.
Once you’ve had your fill of quiet contemplation, treat yourself to a pampering beauty routine right here in Vancouver. Whether it’s a relaxing facial at one of the city’s serene day spas, a soothing soak in your hotel’s deep-soaking tub, or an at-home mani-pedi using products from a local apothecary, carve out time to focus on your own self-care. Not only will this help you feel refreshed and rejuvenated, but it will also ensure you look and feel your absolute best when you walk down the aisle against the backdrop of Vancouver’s natural splendor.
2. Spend Quality Time with Your Partner
On the day before your wedding, it’s important to prioritize quality time with your partner. After all, this is the last time you’ll be an unmarried couple, and there’s something so special about cherishing those final moments together.
Plan a low-key date that allows you to truly connect. Go for a leisurely stroll along the seawall in Stanley Park, enjoying views of the North Shore mountains and Burrard Inlet. Or pack a picnic of local delicacies and dine alfresco in one of the city’s many scenic urban green spaces like Queen Elizabeth Park or Vanier Park. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even plan a fun activity like renting a tandem bicycle to explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods together. For a more intimate evening, simply curl up on the couch in your hotel room or Airbnb and reminisce about your relationship over a bottle of British Columbia wine.
Some couples also choose to exchange a special gift or memento with each other on the eve of their wedding. This could be something sentimental like a love letter, a piece of locally-crafted jewelry, or a family heirloom passed down through generations.
Regardless of how you choose to spend your time, the key is to be present and soak up every second. Put your phones away, silence any distractions, and focus solely on each other. These quiet moments of connection will be something you both treasure for years to come.
3. Finalize the Details
As exciting as the day before your wedding may be in vibrant Vancouver, it’s also important to tackle any remaining to-do’s on your list. Spend some time going through your wedding day timeline, making sure you have a clear understanding of when and where each event will take place, from your ceremony at a picturesque Stanley Park location to your reception at a chic downtown hotel. Double-check that you have all the necessary items packed and ready to go, from your wedding attire to any personal accessories or locally-sourced decor you’ll be bringing to infuse your celebration with West Coast flair.
If there are any loose ends that need tying up, now is the time to take care of them. Reach out to your vendors to confirm arrival times and final headcounts, and make sure your wedding party knows exactly where they need to be and when. The more organized you can be in the 24 hours leading up to your wedding, the smoother the day will flow.
4. Eat a Nourishing Meal
With all the hustle and bustle of the day, it can be easy to forget to fuel your body properly. But trust us, you’ll want to make sure you have a nutritious meal in your stomach before the festivities begin.
Choose something that’s easy to digest and packed with vitamins and nutrients. Avoid anything too heavy or greasy, as you don’t want to risk feeling sluggish or queasy during your wedding. And don’t forget to stay hydrated by sipping water throughout the day.
Here are some nutritious food options in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia that would be great to eat before a wedding:
- Salmon from the pristine waters of the Pacific Northwest – Grilled, baked or smoked, salmon is an excellent source of protein, healthy omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins like B12 and D. Many local restaurants and catering companies feature wild-caught BC salmon on their menus.
- Fresh salads featuring locally-grown greens, vegetables, and berries – The Fraser Valley is renowned for its fertile farmland, producing an abundance of crisp lettuces, juicy tomatoes, crunchy carrots, and sweet berries that make for nourishing, fiber-rich salads.
- Quinoa and ancient grain bowls – Wholesome grains like quinoa, farro and bulgur pair perfectly with roasted veggies, avocado, nuts and seeds for a filling, nutrient-dense pre-wedding meal.
5. Surround Yourself with Loved Ones
Your wedding day is about so much more than just you and your partner – it’s a celebration of the community of people who have supported you throughout your relationship. On the day before your wedding, make time to connect with the important people in your life.
Gather your wedding party for a casual get-together, whether it’s a luncheon, a cocktail hour, or a simple game night. Use this time to express your gratitude, share your excitement, and maybe even indulge in a few pre-wedding toasts. If you have family members or close friends who aren’t part of the wedding party, see if you can squeeze in some quality time with them as well. Some couples choose to spend the eve of their wedding giving back to their community. This could involve volunteering together, making donations, or simply spreading acts of kindness. It’s a beautiful way to ground yourselves in service.
6. Write Heartfelt Notes
In the midst of all the busyness, it’s easy to forget the true meaning behind your wedding day. That’s why it’s so important to take a moment to reflect on the significance of your commitment and express your gratitude to those who matter most.
Set aside time to write handwritten notes to your partner, your parents, your wedding party, and anyone else who has played a pivotal role in your life and relationship. These don’t have to be long or elaborate – a few sincere sentences expressing your love and appreciation will go a long way.
Not only will these notes be a cherished keepsake for the recipients, but the act of writing them can also be incredibly grounding for you. It’s a chance to pause, express your emotions, and remind yourself of what truly matters as you embark on this new chapter of your life.
Some couples may start writing their vows 24 hours before the wedding, check out these 7 Powerful Tips To Write Emotional Vow.
7. Enjoy the Moment
Finally, on the morning, afternoon or night before your special day, take a moment to simply be present and soak it all in. This is the last time you’ll experience the anticipation and excitement of your impending marriage. In the next moment, you’ll officially be husband and wife, and while that is an incredible milestone, there’s something truly special about the hours leading up to it.
Whether you choose to spend the time quietly with your partner or gather your closest loved ones for a small celebration, make sure to take a step back and appreciate the gravity of this moment. Reflect on your journey, express your gratitude, and allow yourself to be filled with a sense of wonder and joy.
And on your special day, you may want to have the meaningful moments and memories you’ll share with your partner and loved ones being perfectly captured. With an eye for artistry and a passion for storytelling, the 48 Studio team will beautifully preserve every heartfelt exchange, tender embrace, and joyful shared experience. Don’t let the magic of your wedding eve slip away – reach out to 48 Studio today to learn how we can craft a custom photography package to meet your needs.
