By the time the last guest leaves, most couples have been awake for twenty hours, posed for hundreds of photographs and greeted every aunt in the family. The wedding night should be a chance to rest and be together. A little planning makes sure it is.
Choose a hotel near the reception
After a long day, a short journey matters. Book a hotel close to the reception venue, or at the venue itself if it has rooms. Driving across Accra late at night in traffic is the last thing you want.
Book a suite
Many hotels offer honeymoon or bridal suites with extra space, decorations and sometimes breakfast. Ask what is included. A room with space to hang the wedding gown and store gifts is useful.
Tell the hotel
Let the hotel know you are newlyweds. Many offer small extras: flowers, a cake, a late checkout. Ask for late checkout in any case; you will want to sleep in.
Plan the getaway
Decide when you will leave the reception. Some couples leave before the after-party; others stay to the end. Arrange a driver and make sure someone has your luggage at the hotel already.
Pack an overnight bag
Pack a bag in advance with clothes for the next day, toiletries, phone chargers, any medication and comfortable shoes. Ask a bridesmaid or groomsman to deliver it to the hotel before you arrive.
Eat something
Many couples barely eat at their own wedding. Ask the caterer to pack a plate for you, or order room service.
Secure the gifts and cash
Decide in advance who will take care of wedding gifts and cash envelopes. Do not leave them unattended at the venue. A trusted family member can keep them until you return.
Change out of the gown
Wedding gowns can be complicated. Make sure you know how to undo buttons, corsets and fastenings, or arrange for help before you leave the venue.
Plan the next morning
If you have a thanksgiving service, a family breakfast or an early flight, know the time and plan your night around it.
Switch off
Put your phones away for a while. The photos and messages can wait until morning.
The wedding belongs to everyone. The wedding night belongs to two people. Plan it so you can enjoy being married for the first quiet hours of it.
