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Packing Guidance

Packing Guidance


Highlights

  • Pack by “zones” (ceremony, reception, gift table, sweetheart table, etc.) so items go directly where they’re needed.

  • Label every bin or box clearly — don’t rely on memory.

  • Remove packaging and prep items before arriving (unwrap candles, insert photos, etc.).

  • Make a master checklist and assign someone to track vital items (rings, license, vows).

  • Keep personal luggage separate from décor bins.

  • Include comfort items and an “emergency kit” in your personal bag.

  • Pack early, consolidate, and minimize to avoid last-minute stress.


In the flurry of last-minute preparations, packing for your wedding weekend can be surprisingly stressful. We’ve seen it all: forgotten shoes, missing rings, and décor left at home. With some organization, you can make sure everything you need arrives at Rixey Manor — ready to go.


Think in Zones

Pack your décor and supplies by wedding “zone.” For example:

  • Ceremony Box: aisle décor, unity candles, programs.

  • Sweetheart Table Box: toasting flutes, signage, candles.

  • Gift Table Box: card box, pens, guest book.

Grouping items by where they’ll be used makes setup much easier. Helpers or staff can grab a box and know exactly where it belongs.


Label Clearly

On each bin or box, write exactly what’s inside and what area it’s for. Use bold labels — don’t assume you’ll remember. Clear plastic bins are great, but still label them because you may not be the one unpacking.


Remove Packaging in Advance

Unwrap and prep new items at home. Take tags off candles, unwrap glassware, and replace stock photos in frames. No one wants to be tearing plastic off 100 votives on the wedding day.


Prep the Small Stuff

Little things get forgotten more often than big ones. Make sure you’ve packed:

  • Cake knife & server

  • Toasting flutes

  • Memorial table photos

  • Rings and ring box

  • Marriage license

  • Vow books

  • Pens for the guest book

  • Extra stationery (like an invitation suite for your photographer to style)


Pro tip: assign one trusted person (Maid of Honor, Best Man, or sibling) to safeguard the truly vital items until Saturday morning— rings, license, vows — so you don’t have to think about them.


Checklist It

Make a master packing list and check items off as you pack. It’s simple but lifesaving under wedding stress. A checklist prevents the dreaded, “I swore I had that with me!” Use the decor list on your google sheets as a starting point!


Pack Personal Items Separately

Keep your overnight bags and personal items separate from décor boxes. Clothes, toiletries, and medications should go in luggage — not in a décor bin. This avoids confusion and keeps essentials easy to grab.


Don’t Forget Comfort Items

In your personal suitcase, include your own mini “emergency kit”:

  • Pain relievers, band-aids, safety pins, stain wipes

  • Sewing kit, deodorant, makeup touch-ups

  • Phone chargers, comfy shoes for dancing

  • Any daily medications you can’t be without

Rixey has a stocked backup kit on site (see Emergency & Backup Items), but having your preferred products is best.


Consolidate & Minimize

It’s tempting to bring every “just in case” detail, but less really is more. If you bought five cake knives because you couldn’t decide, pack one and leave the rest. Every item you skip is one less thing to track during Clean-Up.


Timing & Drop-Offs

Start packing décor a week or more before the wedding. Once items are boxed, you can even drop them off at Rixey early (see Drop-Off Instructions). This way you’re not hauling a carload during rehearsal.


In Summary

Pack early, label everything, and keep essentials separate. The more organized you are, the less you’ll stress — and the smoother setup will go. With clear bins, a checklist, and a little preparation, you’ll arrive at Rixey ready to celebrate, not to scramble.

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