Planning a wedding can easily start to feel overwhelming. Knowing what to do, and when to do it makes the process way less intimidating! That’s why we’ve compiled this handy checklist to give you a rough idea of which vendors to contact no matter how far out you are from the big day!
12+ Months Before the Wedding
✔ Set a Budget: Decide how much you want to spend and who is contributing.
✔ Create a Guest List: Draft an initial list to estimate venue size and catering needs.
✔ Book a Venue: Choose your ceremony and reception locations.
✔ Hire a Wedding Planner (if needed): They can help with budgeting, vendor selection, and logistics.
✔ Pick a Date: Consider seasonality, availability, and personal significance.
✔ Choose a Wedding Style & Theme: Rustic, elegant, modern, beach, etc.
✔ Book Key Vendors: Photographer, videographer, caterer, and entertainment.
✔ Shop for Your Wedding Dress: Start early for ordering and alterations.
✔ Visit your favourite Wedding Show for inspiration and ideas!
9-12 Months Before the Wedding
✔ Hire Additional Vendors: Florist, DJ/band, officiant, baker, hair & makeup artist.
✔ Engagement Photoshoot: Use these for your save-the-dates and wedding website.
✔ Send Save-the-Dates: Especially important for destination weddings.
✔ Register for Gifts: Create a registry at multiple stores or online platforms.
✔ Research Accommodation for Guests: Block hotel rooms if needed.
✔ Plan & Book Your Honeymoon: Check passport requirements if traveling abroad.
6-9 Months Before the Wedding
✔ Order Bridesmaid Dresses & Groomsmen Attire: Allow time for fittings and alterations.
✔ Plan the Ceremony Details: Select readings, vows, and music.
✔ Design & Order Invitations: Include RSVP details and wedding website info.
✔ Schedule Tastings: Finalize catering and cake flavors.
✔ Create a Wedding Website: Share event details, registry info, and travel tips.
✔ Book Transportation: Arrange cars, limos, or shuttles for the wedding party and guests.
3-6 Months Before the Wedding
✔ Finalize the Menu: Work with your caterer to confirm selections.
✔ Buy Wedding Bands: Allow time for resizing if needed.
✔ Plan Hair & Makeup Trials: Find the perfect look for your big day.
✔ Confirm Rentals: Chairs, linens, lighting, dance floor, tents, etc.
✔ Arrange Dress Fittings: Schedule at least two fittings before the wedding.
✔ Choose Wedding Favors: Decide on guest takeaways.
✔ Create a Music Playlist: Select must-play and do-not-play songs for the DJ/band.
1-3 Months Before the Wedding
✔ Mail Invitations: Include RSVP deadline (4-6 weeks before the wedding).
✔ Apply for Marriage License: Check local requirements for timing and paperwork.
✔ Confirm Timeline with Vendors: Ensure everyone is on the same page.
✔ Write Your Vows: Take time to personalize them.
✔ Plan the Seating Chart: Use RSVP responses to arrange tables.
✔ Have a Final Dress Fitting: Ensure a perfect fit before the big day.
✔ Break in Wedding Shoes: Wear them around the house to avoid discomfort.
2-4 Weeks Before the Wedding
✔ Confirm Guest Count with Caterer: Give them final numbers.
✔ Prepare Wedding Day Emergency Kit: Include items like stain remover, safety pins, and pain relievers.
✔ Pick Up Wedding Attire: Have everything ready and steamed.
✔ Schedule a Final Venue Walkthrough: Go over last-minute details.
✔ Delegate Wedding Day Responsibilities: Assign tasks to the wedding party or planner.
✔ Practice Your First Dance: Run through it at least once.
1 Week Before the Wedding
✔ Pack for Honeymoon: Ensure passports, travel documents, and essentials are ready.
✔ Prepare Final Payments & Tips: Have envelopes ready for vendors.
✔ Get a Mani-Pedi & Any Last-Minute Grooming: Freshen up before the big day.
✔ Rehearsal & Rehearsal Dinner: Run through the ceremony with the wedding party.
✔ Relax & Get Plenty of Sleep! You’re almost there!
Wedding Day!
✔ Eat a Good Breakfast: Stay energized for the day ahead.
✔ Enjoy Getting Ready: Soak in the special moments with your wedding party.
✔ Take Deep Breaths & Stay Present: This is your big day—enjoy it!
Did you find this checklist helpful? We would love to hear where you’re at in the planning process! Tag us on Instagram @magicalbeginnings.ptbowedshow ♡