Congratulations on your engagement! As you embark on this exciting journey towards your big day, it’s essential to approach wedding planning with organization and foresight. To help you navigate this process smoothly, we’ve compiled your ultimate wedding planning checklist, ensuring every detail is covered for a timeless celebration.
12+ Months Before
- Set a Budget: Begin by establishing a clear budget to guide your decisions.
- Draft the Guest List: Create an initial list of guests to get an idea of your wedding’s size.
- Choose Your Wedding Party: Decide on your bridesmaids, groomsmen, and other roles.
- Pick a Date and Venue: Research and visit venues, then select your date based on availability.
- Book Your Officiant: Ensure you have someone to legally perform the ceremony.
- Research Vendors: Start looking into photographers, caterers, florists, and entertainment.
9-12 Months Before
- Engagement Photos: Consider a session for save-the-dates or your wedding website.
- Purchase a Wedding Dress: Allow time for fittings and alterations.
- Book Vendors: Secure your photographer, caterer, florist, and entertainment.
- Create a Wedding Website: Share the date, location, and other details with guests.
- Send Save-the-Dates: Especially important for out-of-town guests and destination weddings.
6-9 Months Before
- Order Bridesmaid Dresses: Allow time for orders and alterations.
- Book Honeymoon: Start planning your post-wedding getaway.
- Register for Gifts: Select items for your wedding registry.
- Order Invitations: Choose your design and wording for formal invitations.
- Plan Transportation: Arrange transportation for yourselves and potentially guests.
4-6 Months Before
- Choose Rings: Select and purchase wedding bands.
- Order the Cake: Attend tastings and decide on your cake design.
- Buy Attire Accessories: Think shoes, jewelry, and other accessories.
- Schedule Hair and Makeup Artists: Consider a trial run to finalize your look.
- Finalize Menu and Floral Arrangements: Confirm details with your caterer and florist.
2-4 Months Before
- Send Invitations: Aim for sending them out 6-8 weeks before the wedding.
- Plan Rehearsal Dinner: Organize the venue and guest list.
- Confirm Vendors: Reconfirm arrangements and provide any necessary details.
- Write Vows: If you’re opting to write personal vows, start drafting them now.
- Apply for Marriage License: Check the requirements in your location.
1 Month Before
- Final Dress Fitting: Ensure your dress and any bridal party attire fit perfectly.
- Create a Seating Chart: Plan out seating arrangements for the reception.
- Confirm RSVPs: Follow up with any guests who haven’t responded.
- Prepare Toasts and Speeches: Write or finalize any speeches for the rehearsal dinner or reception.
- Pack for the Honeymoon: Start getting your travel essentials together.
The Week Of
- Final Vendor Confirmations: A quick check-in with your vendors to confirm details.
- Get Your Marriage License: If not already done.
- Delegate Wedding Day Tasks: Assign tasks like guestbook attending, gift collection, etc.
- Relax and Pamper: Consider a spa day to relax before the big event.
- Rehearse Dinner: Enjoy the company of your closest friends and family before the big day.
Wedding Day
- Eat a Good Breakfast: Start your day with a nutritious meal.
- Give Yourself Plenty of Time to Get Ready: Enjoy these moments with your bridal party.
- Relax and Enjoy: Embrace every moment. It goes by fast!
Remember, while checklists and plans are invaluable, it’s the love, laughter, and shared moments that truly make a wedding unforgettable. We’re here to help you bring your vision to life, alleviating the stress of planning so you can focus on enjoying every step towards your happily ever after.
If you’re dreaming of a wedding that speaks uniquely of your love story, beautifully executed with professional finesse, we’re just a click away. Check out the beautiful weddings we’ve had the honor of bringing to life for our beloved clients. Your perfect day is our passion, and we can’t wait to start this journey with you.