Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist
Planning a wedding can be an exhilarating yet overwhelming experience. To help you stay organized and ensure that no detail is overlooked, we’ve created the ultimate wedding planning checklist. Use this guide to keep track of your tasks and timelines as you prepare for your special day.
12 Months Before
Set a Budget: Determine how much you can spend and allocate funds to different aspects of the wedding.
Create a Guest List: Start compiling a list of everyone you want to invite.
Choose a Date: Select a few potential dates, keeping in mind venue availability and seasonal factors.
Book a Venue: Secure your ceremony and reception locations as early as possible.
Hire a Wedding Planner: Consider hiring a professional if you need assistance with planning.
9-11 Months Before
Select Vendors: Research and book key vendors, including caterers, photographers, and florists.
Send Save-the-Dates: Notify guests of your wedding date, especially if it’s a destination wedding.
Choose Wedding Party: Decide who will be in your wedding party and ask them to participate.
Start Dress Shopping: Begin looking for your wedding dress and schedule fittings.
6-8 Months Before
Finalize Guest List: Confirm your guest list and begin collecting addresses.
Choose Wedding Attire: Select attire for the wedding party, including bridesmaids and groomsmen.
Plan the Ceremony: Meet with your officiant to discuss the ceremony details and script.
Register for Gifts: Create a wedding registry at your favorite stores.
4-5 Months Before
Send Invitations: Choose and order your wedding invitations and other stationery.
Book Transportation: Arrange transportation for the wedding party and guests, if needed.
Schedule Tastings: Finalize your menu with your caterer by scheduling tastings.
Plan the Honeymoon: Research and book your honeymoon destination and accommodations.
2-3 Months Before
Confirm Vendor Details: Touch base with all vendors to confirm timelines and details.
Create a Day-of Timeline: Outline the schedule for the wedding day, including ceremony, reception, and vendor arrival times.
Finalize Seating Arrangements: Plan the seating chart and finalize guest placements.
Prepare for Fittings: Schedule final dress fittings for the bride and wedding party.
1 Month Before
Send Invitations: Mail out your wedding invitations, if you haven’t already.
Apply for Marriage License: Research and obtain your marriage license, keeping local regulations in mind.
Finalize the Playlist: Work with your DJ or band to create a playlist for the reception.
Confirm RSVPs: Check in with guests who haven’t responded to your invitations.
1 Week Before
Confirm Final Details: Reach out to all vendors to confirm details and timelines.
Create an Emergency Kit: Prepare a kit with essentials like safety pins, makeup, and snacks for the wedding day.
Rehearse: Hold a rehearsal with the wedding party and officiant to go over the ceremony details.
Relax and Enjoy: Take some time for yourself and relax before the big day!
Day of the Wedding
Eat a Good Breakfast: Make sure to nourish yourself to keep your energy up.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Delegate Tasks: Assign trusted friends or family members to handle any day-of responsibilities.
Enjoy the Moment: Take a deep breath and savor every moment of your special day!
With this comprehensive wedding planning checklist, you’ll stay organized and ensure that no detail is overlooked. Remember to enjoy the process and celebrate this exciting chapter in your life!
