Your wedding day is one of the most memorable events in your life, but what comes after is equally exciting – the honeymoon! I remember arriving home from 10 days in Greece with my wife, our car had a giant orange parking ticket on it. We didn’t check the Chicago street cleaning schedule (found here)! I wish someone had created a check list for me to look at before I left- Well now I have! To ensure your honeymoon is as magical as your wedding day, here's a checklist of things you should take care of before the “I do’s”.

1. Finalize Your Honeymoon Destination:

   First things first, decide on your honeymoon destination. Make sure it aligns with your interests and budget. Whether it's a tropical beach, a bustling city, or a remote mountain cabin, choose a place that both of you will cherish.

2. Passport and Visa:

   Check the expiration dates on your passports and make sure you have all the necessary visas. Renew them if needed and ensure your names match your travel documents.

3. Travel Insurance:

   Protect your trip with comprehensive travel insurance that covers unexpected events such as flight cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.

4. Inform Your Bank:

   Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any payment issues due to unusual transactions in a foreign country.

5. Packing Checklist:

   Create a detailed packing list to make sure you don't forget anything important, from swimsuits to power adapters. Don't forget any necessary medications. I partied a little too hard on a sunset cruise and ripped my bathing suit. Luckily, I brought an extra!

6. Booking Accommodations:

   Confirm your hotel or lodging reservations, and double-check the check-in and check-out times.

7. Luggage Tags:

   Attach luggage tags with your contact information to your suitcases. This will make it easier to locate your bags if they get lost.

8. Travel Itinerary:

   Organize your travel itinerary, including flight details, hotel reservations, and any tours or activities you've planned. Share this with a trusted friend or family member.

9. Currency Exchange:

   If you're traveling abroad, exchange some local currency or inform your bank about your travel destination to ensure you have access to money.

10. Vaccinations and Medications:

    Check if you need any vaccinations for your destination and ensure you have an ample supply of any necessary medications. Advil or Tylenol is a must!

11. Arrange for Pet Care:

    If you have pets, make arrangements for their care while you're away. This could be with a friend, family member, or a trusted pet sitter. We were lucky to have my sister close by to check in on our fur babies.

12. Set Up an Out-of-Office Message:

    Start your new adventure out right and put your phone down. Experience your first few days as a married couple without having to work- Let your workplace know you'll be away, and set up an out-of-office message for your email and phone.

13. Home Security:

    Secure your home before you leave. Lock all doors and windows, set alarms if you have them, and ask a neighbor to collect mail and keep an eye on your property.

14. Packing Your Wedding Attire:

    If you're planning on a photoshoot during your honeymoon, pack your wedding attire with care. Ensure it's clean, pressed, and well-protected for any photo opportunities that arise.

Your honeymoon is a well-deserved break after the whirlwind of wedding planning and festivities. By following this pre-honeymoon checklist, you can ensure a stress-free and enjoyable journey. As a Chicago wedding photographer, I know the importance of capturing the love and joy of your special day, and I'm excited to hear about the adventures you'll embark on during your honeymoon. Make memories to last a lifetime, and don't forget to check the street sweeping calendar before you leave!