There are many elements to think about as you prepare for your big day, from the guest list and location to the attire and decor. Staying on top of everything can be difficult when there is so much to consider. This extensive checklist is here to help guide you through the wedding planning procedure and ensure that no detail is forgotten.
12-18 Months Before the Wedding:
- Choose a wedding date and time
- Create a budget and start researching vendors (venue, caterer, photographer, florist, etc.)
- Decide on the wedding theme and style
- Create a guest list
- Book the ceremony and reception venues
- Hire a wedding planner (if desired)
- Choose and book the officiant
- Shop for a wedding dress and bridesmaid dresses
- Select and purchase wedding rings
- Create a wedding website or save-the-date cards to announce your engagement
9-12 Months Before the Wedding:
- Book vendors (caterer, photographer, florist, entertainment, Musician etc.)
- Book hotel rooms for out-of-town guests
- Choose a wedding party and ask them to participate
- Shop for wedding invitations and send out save-the-dates
- Start planning the honeymoon
- Create a gift registry
- Schedule engagement photos
6-9 Months Before the Wedding:
- Finalize the guest list and send out wedding invitations
- Shop for wedding party attire and accessories
- Schedule hair and makeup trials
- Plan the ceremony and reception decorations
- Start planning the menu and tasting with the caterer
- Plan transportation for the wedding day
- Arrange for wedding day accommodations and transportation for out-of-town guests
- Order wedding favors
3-6 Months Before the Wedding:
- Schedule dress fittings
- Plan the rehearsal dinner
- Purchase or rent groom and groomsmen attire
- Finalize the menu with the caterer
- Confirm vendors and their arrival times
- Write vows and speeches
- Send through your songs to the Musician
1-3 Months Before the Wedding:
- Finalize seating arrangements
- Confirm the wedding day timeline with vendors and wedding party
- Schedule the wedding rehearsal
- Obtain the marriage license
- Purchase wedding party gifts
- Pack for the honeymoon
- Attend the bachelor/bachelorette parties
- Confirm wedding day transportation for the wedding party
Wedding Day:
- Get ready for the wedding
- Take wedding photos
- Exchange vows and rings
- Enjoy the reception with guests
- Dance Like there’s no tomorrow to Zak’s Music
After the Wedding:
- Send thank-you notes to guests and vendors
- Preserve the wedding dress and bouquet
- Review and select wedding photos
- Change name and address (if applicable)
- Obtain copies of the marriage certificate
- Give Zak an Amazing Google Review 🙂
I hope this checklist helps you stay organized throughout the wedding planning process. Remember, planning a wedding can be a little stressful, so don’t forget to take breaks and enjoy the experience!