Planning a wedding can be a daunting task. With so many details to remember, something can easily fall through the cracks. By following this simple timeline, you can be confident that nothing will go forgotten.
The first thing you and your groom must do is pick a date for the big day. Also make sure you allow enough time for all the necessary planning. A minimum of six-month engagement is suggested for smaller weddings, a minimum of twelve-months is suggested for larger weddings.
12 to 6 Months Before the Wedding
- Reserve the wedding and reception venues.
Popular wedding venues fill up quickly so it is very important to visit your options promptly and make a selection.
- Choose a Caterer.
If your venue does not provide a caterer, you will want to book one at this time. Book tastings before you commit.
- Book Photographer and Videographer.
Photographers have a myriad of other clients outside of weddings (families, babies, engagements, graduates, etc.) and their schedules fill up fast, so don’t dawdle.
- Book all other vendors including a band/DJ, florist, any ceremony musicians, etc.
- Start dress shopping.
You don’t want to settle because of a time crunch, so make sure you have plenty time to find the right dress and have the necessary adjustments made.
- Begin planning and booking your honeymoon.
The sooner you start this, the better your chances are of finding a good deal.
- Select your wedding attendants.
Let your family and friends know early that you would like them to be part of your special day so they can plan accordingly.
6 to 4 Months Before the Wedding
- Reserve all rental equipment.
Linens, chairs, tents, anything that needs to be rented should be booked at this time.
- Order the wedding cake.
Schedule tastings and talk to the baker about how you want your cake to look.
- Register for gifts.
Make sure to choose a couple of different places to register so your guests have plenty of options.
- Purchase wedding bands.
This gives ample time for your wedding bands to be properly sized by the big day.
- Reserve the groom’s attire.
Don’t forget to consider the father-of-the-bride, father-of-the-groom, or any ring bearers if you want them in similar attire.
4 to 2 Months Before the Wedding
- Schedule the rehearsal time and rehearsal dinner.
Most venues have specific times for rehearsals so you need to know your venues schedule and openings. You also need to make reservations for the rehearsal dinner at a restaurant with enough room for guests.
- Finalize your guest list.
Remember to consider whether or not to include “plus ones” for your single or dating friends.
- Select the invitations.
Make sure to order a few extra as keepsakes or in case a last minute addition is made to the guest list. Also, be sure to order RSVP cards and return envelopes as well.
2 Months to 1 Month Before the Wedding
- Mail invitations.
You will want to mail these out a month and a half prior to the wedding to allow ample time for RSVP. Send the final count to the caterer.
- Obtain marriage license.
Most licenses are only good for a certain window of time, so find out what the statute of limitations is in your state and be sure to get the license in the proper timing.
3 to 2 Weeks Before Wedding
- Finalize song list for the band/DJ.
Whether it’s a band or a DJ, make sure they know which songs you want played and which ones you don’t.
- Have your final dress fitting.
Second alterations have been known to happen, so get this final fitting in with plenty of time to spare just in case.
- Draw up seating arrangements.
As those RSVPs arrive, start drawing up a seating chart for the wedding reception.
- Notify caterer of final guest count.
You only get charged for who actually attends the wedding, so you want as accurate a number as possible.
Week of Wedding
- Pick up the dress or have it delivered.
- Pack for the honeymoon and confirm travel arrangements.
- Delegate all day-of wedding tasks to your bridal attendants.
