COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNING TIMELINE

 COMPLETE WEDDING PLANNING TIMELINE GUIDE FOR YOU.

With so many details to consider, staying organized is key to ensuring a stress-free experience. This timeline will help you break down each step—big and small—so nothing gets overlooked. From setting a budget to saying “I do,” here’s your ultimate guide to planning a seamless and unforgettable wedding.

12-18 Months Before the Wedding

  • Set Your Budget – Determine spending limits and contributions.

  • Create Your Guest List – Estimate the number of attendees.

  • Choose a Wedding Date – Consider season, holidays, and venue availability.

  • Hire a Wedding Planner (if needed) – Book early for best options.

  • Select & Book Your Venue – Secure both ceremony and reception locations.

  • Choose Your Wedding Style & Theme – Define the aesthetics of your wedding.

  • Start Researching Vendors – Photographers, videographers, florists, etc.

  • Start Wedding Dress Shopping – Dresses take time for alterations.

  • Engagement Photoshoot – Book a photographer if desired.

9-12 Months Before the Wedding

  • Book Key Vendors – Photographer, videographer, caterer, entertainment, florist.

  • Choose Your Wedding Party – Bridesmaids, groomsmen, maid of honor, best man.

  • Find Your Officiant – Secure a religious leader, judge, or celebrant.

  • Shop for Your Wedding Dress – Order if not already done.

  • Look at Bridesmaid Dresses & Groomsmen Attire – Choose colors and styles.

  • Create a Wedding Website – Share event details, accommodations, and registry.

  • Plan Your Honeymoon – Research destinations and travel options.

  • Schedule Pre-Marital Counseling (if required).

6-9 Months Before the Wedding

  • Send Save-the-Dates – Inform guests of the wedding date.

  • Finalize Catering Menu – Schedule tastings and select dishes.

  • Book Hair & Makeup Artists – Schedule a trial session.

  • Order Wedding Party Attire – Bridesmaid dresses, groomsmen suits/tuxedos.

  • Book Hotel Room Blocks – Secure accommodations for guests.

  • Choose & Order Wedding Invitations – Design and print invitations.

  • Book Transportation – Arrange limos, shuttles, or other transport.

4-6 Months Before the Wedding

  • Order Wedding Bands – Purchase and size rings.

  • Schedule Dress Fittings – Ensure a perfect fit.

  • Plan Reception Details – Seating chart, timeline, and decor ideas.

  • Select & Order Wedding Favors – Personalized gifts for guests.

  • Plan Bachelor & Bachelorette Parties – Organized by MOH & Best Man.

  • Create Your Wedding Registry – Register at favorite stores or online.

  • Book Your Rehearsal Dinner Venue – Finalize the guest list and menu.

  • Design Wedding Signage & Decor – Order custom signs, table numbers, etc.

2-4 Months Before the Wedding

  • Send Wedding Invitations – Include RSVP deadline (6-8 weeks before wedding).

  • Schedule Final Dress Fitting – Ensure proper fit.

  • Confirm Vendors – Double-check bookings and payments.

  • Plan Ceremony Details – Vows, readings, music, and order of events.

  • Order the Wedding Cake – Schedule a cake tasting and finalize design.

  • Purchase Wedding Day Accessories – Shoes, jewelry, garter, veil, etc.

  • Write Your Vows – Begin drafting personal vows.

  • Meet with Photographer & Videographer – Plan must-have shots.

  • Check Marriage License Requirements – Apply for one if needed.

1 Month Before the Wedding

  • Get Marriage License – Follow local requirements.

  • Create a Wedding Day Timeline – Share it with vendors & wedding party.

  • Confirm Final Guest Count – Provide to caterer and venue.

  • Attend Final Dress Fitting – Make last alterations.

  • Break in Your Wedding Shoes – Avoid discomfort on the big day.

  • Plan Reception Seating Chart – Assign tables for guests.

  • Confirm Song List with DJ/Band – Specify must-play and do-not-play lists.

  • Prepare Wedding Emergency Kit – Sewing kit, stain remover, band-aids, etc.

  • Pack for Your Honeymoon – Prepare travel documents and essentials.

1-2 Weeks Before the Wedding

  • Follow Up with Vendors – Confirm arrival times and final details.

  • Delegate Tasks – Assign someone to handle gifts, payments, or errands.

  • Practice Hair & Makeup – Final beauty trial run.

  • Write Thank-You Notes – Have them ready for key people.

  • Prepare Wedding Favors & Welcome Bags – Arrange guest gifts.

  • Check the Weather Forecast – Adjust plans if needed.

1 Day Before the Wedding

  • Attend Rehearsal & Rehearsal Dinner – Run through the ceremony.

  • Get a Good Night’s Sleep – Rest well before the big day.

  • Lay Out Wedding Day Essentials – Rings, vows, accessories, emergency kit.

Wedding Day! 🎉

  • Eat a Healthy Breakfast – Stay energized.

  • Have Hair & Makeup Done – Relax and enjoy the moment.

  • Get Dressed & Take Photos – Capture beautiful pre-ceremony moments.

  • Exchange Gifts or Letters with Your Partner – A sentimental touch.

  • Walk Down the Aisle & Say ‘I Do’ 💍❤️

  • Celebrate & Enjoy Your Reception – Dance, toast, and have fun!

  • End of the Night – Gather belongings, ensure vendors are paid, and begin your honeymoon!

    Post-Wedding Tasks

    • Return Rentals – Chairs, decor, attire if necessary.

    • Send Thank-You Notes – Express gratitude to guests and vendors.

    • Preserve Wedding Dress – Clean and store properly.

    • Review & Select Wedding Photos – Order albums or prints.

    • Change Your Name (if applicable) – Update IDs, bank accounts, and official documents.

    • Leave Vendor Reviews – Help future couples by sharing your experience.