Getting Sick Right Before the Wedding? Here’s What to Do

It’s more common than you think. You’ve been planning, stressing, running on little sleep, and maybe even jetting around for your bachelorette or final dress fitting. All of this can take a toll on your immune system and boom, you wake up with a sore throat, fever, or stomach issues right before the wedding.

While it feels like the worst timing ever (because yeah, it kind of is), there are things you can do immediately to start feeling better and still enjoy your big day.

1. See a Doctor ASAP

Don’t try to tough it out. If you’re showing symptoms of anything beyond a mild cold, book a doctor’s appointment or visit urgent care. There may be prescription medications that can speed up your recovery, reduce symptoms, or at least keep you comfortable enough to enjoy your day.

2. Clear Your Schedule

You may want to power through last-minute DIY projects or errands, but your #1 job right now is to rest. Delegate everything that doesn’t absolutely require you. Most of those last-minute details can be handled by your planner, bridal party, or even left off the to-do list entirely. Your health is now the top priority.

3. Hydrate, Nourish, and Sleep

It sounds basic, but these three things are crucial: drink lots of water and tea, eat nourishing meals (even if you don’t feel like it), and prioritize sleep. This is not the time to be surviving on caffeine and adrenaline. And start using a humidifier while you sleep.

4. Communicate With Your Team

Let your vendors, planner, or key people (like your photographer or officiant) know what’s going on — just in case any changes need to be made. They’ll likely be more understanding than you expect, and many have handled situations like this before.

5. Adjust Expectations (With Love)

You may need to simplify your makeup look, reduce photo time, or even sit during parts of the ceremony. That’s okay. No one will notice the details you had to drop, but they will remember how happy (and real) the day felt.

6. Lean Into the Emotion

If you’re not feeling 100% physically, remember: your wedding is still a celebration of love, not perfection. Let the emotions of the day carry you. The vows, the people, the moments — those are the memories that last. Not the sniffles.

If you wake up sick ON your big day, don’t panic. First, take a deep breath. Then, follow these steps to take care of your body and salvage your celebration:

Emergency Wedding Day Sick Kit: What to Pack (Just in Case)

If your big day is coming up, it’s smart to prep a small emergency kit with these wedding day illness essentials:

• Electrolyte packets or sports drinks
• Ginger chews or mints for nausea
• Preferred cold meds
• Tissues + hand sanitizer



via touchland
• Throat lozenges
• Mini essential oil roller (like peppermint or eucalyptus)

Should You Cancel the Wedding?

Most of the time, no. If you have a mild illness or are just run down, you can usually still go through with the day especially with help and pacing yourself. But if you’re severely ill or contagious, it’s okay to postpone. Your health and safety (and that of your guests) matters most.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I feel sick the day before my wedding?

First, rest and hydrate as much as possible. Let your planner or a trusted friend know what’s going on so they can help. Keep your body warm, take appropriate medicine, and avoid any unnecessary activities or stressors. Early action can make a big difference by morning.

Should I cancel my wedding if I get sick?

In most cases, no. Unless you are extremely ill or contagious (like with the flu, COVID, or norovirus), the wedding can often continue with slight adjustments. Your support team—vendors, planner, and bridal party—can help shift the schedule to give you time to rest.

What medications are safe to take before walking down the aisle?

Stick with over-the-counter remedies that you’ve used before and know your body handles well. DayQuil, ibuprofen, allergy meds, or anti-nausea pills (like Dramamine) are common. Always consult a doctor or pharmacist if unsure, especially if you’re on other medications.

Can stress make me feel sick before my wedding?

Absolutely. Stress can lower your immune system and cause physical symptoms like headaches, upset stomach, or even cold-like symptoms. That’s why managing stress (think: rest, hydration, boundaries) is so important during wedding week.

What if I get food poisoning or a stomach bug before my wedding?

Prioritize hydration and stick to the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast). Try anti-nausea remedies like ginger tea, and speak with a doctor if symptoms are severe. Consider delaying the ceremony slightly or shortening the reception to preserve your energy.

How can I prevent getting sick before my wedding?

Start boosting your immune system a few weeks before the big day: get enough sleep, drink water, take vitamins (like C and Zinc), avoid stress overload, and wash hands frequently, especially during travel or vendor visits. It’s not glamorous, but it helps!

You’ve Got This (Even If You’re Not 100%)

Getting sick right before the wedding is not ideal, but it’s not the end of the world. You are still marrying your best friend! You will still be surrounded by love. And you’ll still have a beautiful story to tell. Take care of yourself, lean on your people, and remember the most important part of the day is the two of you.