Let’s be honest. Sleeping the night before your wedding might feel like a challenge. You’re probably buzzing with excitement, and that’s completely normal. This guide is full of gentle, practical tips to help you wind down with ease. With the right mindset and a few intentional habits, restful sleep really is possible. Getting a good night’s rest isn’t just helpful. It’s essential for feeling calm, clear, and fully present when your wedding day begins.
Whether you’re planning a destination wedding or tying the knot in San Diego, I’ve got you. If you’re prepping for portraits with your Southern California wedding photographer (hey, that’s me!), these tips will help you fall asleep faster and wake up refreshed, grounded, and ready to soak in every moment.
1. How To Sleep The Night Before Your Wedding Starts With a Brain Dump
When your brain won’t stop spinning, give it somewhere to go. Skip the Notes app and go analog. Using your phone in bed can trigger stress or distraction, so stick with pen and paper. Grab a notebook—something like a Moleskine or calming linen-bound journal—and jot down everything: tasks, reminders, even random thoughts. Getting it out of your head and onto paper helps your mind let go.
2. Set Your Phone to Do Not Disturb (and Actually Leave It Alone)
We’ve all scrolled ourselves into restlessness. Tonight, make your bed a screen-free zone. Turn on Do Not Disturb, set a cutoff time for texting, and avoid late-night social media scrolls. Trust me. Your future self will thank you. You’ll wake up feeling rested instead of overstimulated.
3. Breathe Like You Mean It
Deep breathing is a natural way to calm your nervous system. Try this simple trick:
- Inhale for four seconds
- Hold for four seconds
- Exhale slowly for eight seconds
Repeat three times, or until your shoulders start to drop and your mind begins to settle.
It sounds simple, but it works. I’ve used this on nights when my mind won’t quiet down, and it always helps me reset.
4. Embrace a Relaxing Nighttime Routine
Create a ritual that signals to your body it’s time for rest. That might look like sipping herbal tea, taking a warm bath, lighting a calming candle, or playing soft music. Avoid last-minute emails, group chats, or mentally rehearsing your vows.
Your only job right now? Slow down.
5. Skip the Wine and Try a Natural Sleep Aid Instead
While a glass of wine might seem like a tempting way to relax, alcohol can disrupt deep sleep. For a more restful night, explore natural, non-addictive remedies like Valerian Root, Chamomile, or Magnesium. Some people also find CBD helpful for easing pre-wedding anxiety, though it’s not for everyone and may affect people differently. Be sure to consult with your doctor and use a reputable source that complies with local laws.
6. Don’t Obsess Over the Clock
If you find yourself lying in bed thinking, “If I fall asleep right now, I’ll still get five hours”… pause. That mindset adds pressure and can lead to even more restlessness. Instead, remind yourself that simply resting—whether asleep or not—is still valuable. Let your body do what it needs.
7. Remember What This Is All About
At the heart of all the planning, nerves, and anticipation is one beautiful truth:
You’re about to marry your favorite person.
You’ve poured so much love into this day. Now let yourself feel it, so you can be fully present and savor every moment as it unfolds. Trust your planning. Trust your people. And most importantly, trust yourself.
You’ve got this.
Final Thought
Getting good sleep before your wedding isn’t about perfection. It’s about giving your body and mind the space to breathe, relax, and be ready for the magic to come.
