Think going on a trip a few months before your wedding is off the table? Then you’ve probably never heard of “earlymoons.” Many couples sneak in a getaway before their nuptials, either in lieu of or in addition to a traditional honeymoon (newlyweds Pippa Middleton and James Matthews reportedly vacationed in St. Barths before their wedding). It’s the perfect chance to take a break from wedding prep and spend quality time together before you’re officially married. Catch up on sleep, get some vitamin D, have a mini adventure and enjoy all the date nights you deserve.
The best part about an earlymoon is there’s no pressure: Whether you book a two-night stay at a bed-and-breakfast one town over, head to a day spa or jet to the Caribbean like Middleton and Matthews, your trip can be as low-key or luxe as your schedule and budget allow. It’s all about reconnecting as a couple, doing something you love (or something new!) and pressing the pause button on vendor check-ins, seating charts and centerpiece samples.
Before you go, make sure you have a few key wedding tasks checked off and any remaining ones on your radar—nothing’s worse than returning from a trip with a looming to-do list. Plan your vacation so it falls at a good time in your planning process. Confirm and book your big vendors and leave a trusted family or wedding party member to be your vendor point person while you’re away. And think of it this way: If you schedule an earlymoon for eight weeks before your wedding, it’ll incentivize you to get everything done in time for your trip. As long as your planning’s under control, why not enjoy a romantic, prewedding escape?
