Planning your wedding is a whirlwind time in your life which is capped off by the thrill of the wedding itself and then the excitement of a honeymoon. After all the fun dies down, though, you will realize that there are some practical things that must be addressed. Here is a to-do list that all newlyweds should read.
Thank You Notes. If you haven't done them already, you really need to get on top of your thank you notes immediately after returning from your honeymoon. This is one of those tasks that only gets harder as time goes on, so do not procrastinate. Get some pretty stationery (perhaps personalized with your new monogram), a good black pen, a book of stamps, and start writing. The notes do not have to be long nor particularly original, as long as they are gracious and heartfelt. If you really have a big pile of notes to write, get your husband to sit down with you and write some too. It is a really small thing to do for all those well-wishers who spent the time and money to buy you gifts.
Update Insurance. Does your current homeowner's policy have enough coverage for all those aforementioned gifts? Is your new spouse the beneficiary on your life insurance policy? (Do you even have a life insurance policy?) Have you asked your agent to add your wedding rings and bridal jewelry to your policy? Many insurance companies require separate riders to cover your valuable articles, like fine bridal jewelry or original artwork. It may also be worthwhile to transfer all of your policies to one insurance company, if you and your new spouse previously had them in different places, because you can take advantage of large multi-policy discounts that are often available.
Change Your Name. If you have decided to take your husband's name, you will need to go through a few steps to get this done. Check with your local agencies to be sure of their requirements before beginning the process. In general, the place to start is by getting a new Social Security card with your married name. Be sure to bring along all of your I.d. and documents in your maiden name, as well as your marriage license. Once you have your new Social Security card, you can work on changing your name on your driver's license, at the bank, on your credit cards, utilities, and so forth.
Clean and Store Your Wedding Gown. Don't leave your wedding gown hanging in the plastic bag from the bridal shop for an extended length of time. Within a few weeks of your return from the honeymoon, you should have it professionally dry cleaned by a company that specializes in wedding gowns (most do not). Even if you do not see any stains or marks, it is wise to have the gown cleaned, because invisible spots from perspiration or Champagne will oxidize and turn brown or yellow over time, causing irreversible damage to the gown. After it has been thoroughly cleaned, your bridal gown should be loosely stored in an archival quality acid free box and tissue, never sealed in plastic in one of those boxes that some dry cleaners still offer.
Establish a Date Night. Once the wedding is past, it can be so easy to slip into a routine. Don't let the romance in your relationship die! Make a plan to have a set date night with your new spouse on a regular basis. Most couples will either do it once a week or once a month. A few hours spent together watching a movie or sharing a nice dinner is a great way to maintain the connection that brought you together in the first place.
With these five tips in mind, you will be on your way towards being a happy and organized new husband or wife.
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