You had a checklist for the perfect wedding. Now that the big day is over, you’re ready for the next step: the “to do” list after the “I do’s.”
We’ve put together the definitive checklist so that you won’t miss a thing as you transition into married life. It’ll be a piece of cake – pun intended – after planning a wedding. Remember, you’ve got this.
- Take care of the post-wedding details.
The wedding may be over, but there are likely some details that still need to be addressed. You’ll want to take care of them in a timely fashion, but most can wait until after the honeymoon.
- Returned rented clothing and items. Take your wedding dress to be cleaned, boxed, and preserved.
- Pay outstanding vendor bills. Many wedding vendors require payment on the day of your event, but for those who will bill you, make sure to pay them promptly.
- Order photos. Set aside several hours to review your photos and choose the top 20-30. Then create a flow that tells the story of the day from start to finish.
- Send thank you notes within 3 months of the wedding. Consider alternatives to handwritten notes, such as postcards with a photo of the wedding and a heartfelt sentiment.
- Request your marriage certificate.
This is not to be confused with your marriage license, which is the legal document that allows you to get married. A marriage certificate is legal proof that you are married. It often has a raised seal.
- After the ceremony, it is the responsibility of your officiant to bring the marriage license to the county clerk so that a marriage certificate may be generated.
- Contact the county clerk’s office and order 3-5 certified copies. Note that there will be a charge for each one that you request.
- Arrange to have the copies mailed, or for you to pick them up.
- Legally change your name (optional).
If you plan to change your name, there is a process to follow.
- You will need your marriage certificate to apply for a new social security card. That’s the first step in changing your name.
- Once you have a social security card, you can take that, your marriage certificate, and proof of address and visit the Department of Motor Vehicles for an updated driver’s license. You are now ready to use your new ID to update your name on your financial accounts. (See below.)
- You also may want to update your name on your social media accounts.
Pro Tip: If you don’t want to take the time to do it yourself, there are companies that provide name change services for a fee.
- Alert your employer.
If you changed your name and/or your address, you want to alert your employer so that they have the correct information on file.
- Provide a copy of your new driver’s license to your employer, which will include your new name and/or address.
- Make sure your employer has updated bank deposit information for payroll, health insurance, and your 401K.
- Request new business cards and/or an updated email address.
- Update your financial accounts.
Your financial accounts need to be updated if you changed your name and/or address. In addition, this is a good opportunity to take stock of your finances, create a budget, and how you will move forward as a married couple.
- Provide a copy of your marriage certificate, updated driver’s license, and proof of address to update the information at your bank.
- Do the same for any loans, such as car loans and mortgage providers, and for your credit cards.
- Set up a joint bank account if desired. Order checks with your married name and address.
- Update or change your insurance.
Now that you’re married, you will want to update your homeowner’s or renter’s policy and auto insurance so you’re together on the same policy.
- Contact your insurance provider to update them on your new name, address, and marital status. You will need to do this even if you do not change your name.
- Determine what changes need to be made on your homeowner’s or renter’s and car insurance policies. If you had individual policies previously, you would want to cancel them and have a new policy written for both of you.
- You may qualify for discounts through bundling Don’t forget to ask about those.
- Alert your service providers.
You’ll also want to update your service providers with your new name and address.
- Contact the utility providers for your home, including gas, electric, water, and Internet.
- Make a list of your doctors and other medical providers and alert them with new information, including updated health insurance if applicable.
- Update your memberships and subscriptions with any new information.
- Notify the government.
You’ll want to make sure that your married name is listed with your local town and various government agencies.
- If you own your home, check with the town/county clerk, and make sure your married name is listed on the property deed. This should also put your correct name on property taxes and sewer bills.
- Update your name (and if needed, address) with the post office and with your state’s voter registration.
- File for a new government-issued passport in your married name so that you’ll be ready for your next adventure.
- Merge your stuff.
You brought stuff to the marriage and so did your partner. Likely, you have duplicates. Now is a good time to decide what to keep and what to give away or sell. There are many Free Cycle and Buy Nothing Groups to donate right in your local community.
- Sell or donate your wedding dress, wedding décor, and any other wedding-related supplies that you no longer need.
- Go through your household items to look for duplicates. Decide to regift or sell.
- Return any unwanted wedding gifts within 2 months. You may use the credit with the store to buy the items you still need.
- Make a newlywed bucket list.
The wedding may be over, but your adventures are just beginning. To help with the post-wedding blues, create your newlywed bucket list and start planning.
- Make a list of the things you’d like to do together. Then choose a few you’d like to try sooner rather than later.
- Remember that it doesn’t have to be costly. You just spent a lot on a wedding and honeymoon. Maybe it’s hosting your first dinner party as a married couple or trying out a new hobby together.
- Plan a one-year anniversary vacation. Follow these pro tips to save money when you travel. You’ll have a year to save for the trip, and it will be another wonderful celebration of your new life together.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
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