While people expect brides to be busy on their wedding days, some think that grooms sleep in, grab a shower, get dressed, and head to the wedding site. If you think that’s the way your wedding day is going to happen, think again. Before you show up and prepare to walk down the aisle, there are several things you need to get done.

Set the Alarm

When you roll in after the bachelor party, set the alarm before you crawl into bed. While you don’t have to get up at the break of dawn, choose a time that still allows you to get everything done without rushing. For example, an afternoon wedding means you should probably be up by 9:00 a.m. at the latest.

Have a Bite to Eat

Food sounds awful, but you need some energy to get through the day. That’s only going to come from eating something halfway nutritious. Keep it simple, like bacon and eggs with some toast on the side. Once you have a few bites, the effort will be easier and you’ll begin to feel better.

Check Your Clothing

Taking a good look at your wardrobe for the day is a must. Inspect your clothing for the ceremony and the reception. If you and your new bride will be changing before taking off at the end of the day, make sure those clothes are neat, pressed, and ready to go.

If necessary, run an iron over your shirt. Wedding photos last forever and you don’t want to look anything less than your best today.

Send Your Bride a Gift

Traditionally, its bad luck to see the bride before the ceremony, but that doesn’t mean no communication at all. One of your groomsmen can pass along a special gift and maybe a sealed letter to one of the bridesmaids. The bridesmaid will complete the delivery.

Your gift can be serious or it can be something fun. It all depends on what you think would bring a smile to your bride’s face and make the day less stressful for her. Add in a letter that reminds her of one of the reasons you want to spend the rest of your life with her, and the day will be more memorable for both of you.

Don’t Forget Your Groomsmen

Your bride isn’t the only one who deserves something today. Arrange to have unique groomsmen gifts delivered to each member of your party. You know your buddies better than anyone, so feel free to choose something each one would like. The gifts don’t have to be fancy or expensive. All they need to do is convey how much you appreciate them being there for your wedding day.

Take a Second Look at the Schedule

A lot is happening today and you need to stay on top of things. Even if you have the schedule memorized, take one more look. You want to be calm and collected as the day progresses. That means knowing exactly what happens after the ceremony, when the reception should start, and what time the two of you need to leave for the airport.

Lay Off the Booze But Stay Hydrated

Being nervous on your wedding day is natural. Even so, stay away from the booze before the wedding. One drink has a way of leading to a second and third. Before you know it, you are in no condition to remain upright.

Stick with water or sports drinks instead. You’ll stay hydrated and maybe take in more of the nutrients you need to keep your nerves under control.

Check on the Rings

Before you get dressed, check with the best man and make sure the rings are safe and sound. When the time comes to exchange them, they should be produced quickly and without any hesitation. Once you know the rings are in the right hands, head to the shower and start getting ready.

Show Up On Time

Allow extra time to get to the wedding site. Even if you know it usually takes no more than 20 minutes, allow twice that amount. If you come across any detours, traffic because of an accident, or any of the many other things that could slow you down, there is time to find another route and still show up before anybody begins to get nervous.

Your wedding day should be something you remember fondly for the rest of your life. Plan ahead and know what you need to get done in the hours prior to the ceremony. A little planning on your part will make it a lot easier to relax and enjoy every minute of the day.