The Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist: A Step-by-Step Guide by Month
You’re Engaged! Now what? First of all, congratulations! How exciting! Planning a wedding is an exciting journey, but it can also feel overwhelming without the right roadmap. A well-organized wedding planning checklist helps ensure that every detail is covered, from booking your dream venue to finalizing your guest list. Whether you’re planning a grand celebration or an intimate wedding, this month-by-month wedding planning guide will keep you on track for a stress-free and unforgettable day.
12+ Months Before the Wedding: Start Planning
The moment you get engaged, the countdown begins! Here’s what to tackle first:
Set a Budget: Determine how much you want to spend and who will contribute.
Create a Guest List: Decide on the number of guests to guide venue selection.
Choose a Wedding Date: Consider seasonality, venue availability, and personal significance.
Hire a Wedding Planner : A professional can ease the planning process. If you’re doing your own planning, hiring a Day of Wedding Coordinator may be the way to go.
Book Your Wedding Venue: Popular venues book up quickly, so secure yours early.
Choose a Theme & Style: Decide on colors, décor, and overall vibe.
Start Researching Vendors: Look into photographers, caterers, florists, and entertainment. ( Have a certain photographer or caterer in mind? You may want to check their availability before picking a date.)
Consider Wedding Insurance: Protect your investment in case of unexpected changes. Most venues want you to have insurance. Check with your venue and see what their requirements are.
9-12 Months Before: Book Key Vendors
Hire Photographer & Videographer: Ensure they align with your vision.
Secure Catering Services: Schedule tastings and finalize your menu.
Book an Officiant: Whether religious or civil, confirm their availability.
Select Bridal Party: Invite bridesmaids, groomsmen, and other key participants.
Shop for Your Wedding Dress: Gowns can take months to be made and altered.
Research Entertainment: Choose a band or DJ and discuss song preferences. Are you including lawn games, board games, or maybe hosting a Murder Mystery dinner? Get creative!
Book Hotel Blocks for Guests: Reserve rooms for out-of-town attendees.
Start a Wedding Website: Keep guests informed about event details and RSVPs. You can also create a Facebook event page if that suits your guests more.
6-9 Months Before: Finalize Big Details
Send Save-the-Dates: Let guests mark their calendars early. These can be done digitally!
Plan Engagement Photoshoot: Use these for invitations or social media.
Choose Wedding Invitations: Order custom designs or DIY them. You can usually find a certain number of free samples at a lot of the stationary websites.
Start Beauty & Wellness Routine: Schedule facials, workouts, and skincare treatments.
Order Bridesmaids Dresses: Allow time for fittings and alterations.
Plan Your Honeymoon: Book flights, accommodations, and activities.
Decide on Wedding Day Timeline: Work with vendors to outline the schedule. Your Day of Wedding Coordinator can either help or do this for you!
4-6 Months Before: Get into the Details
Buy Wedding Rings: Find styles that fit your taste and budget.
Plan the Ceremony: Choose readings, vows, and music.
Book Transportation: Arrange travel for you and your guests.
Schedule Dress Fittings: Ensure time for adjustments.
Arrange Wedding Rentals: Consider chairs, linens, and décor.
Order Wedding Favors: Personalized gifts can add a special touch such as a water color sketch of the guest and their family at the Wedding. However, don’t feel obligated to offer favors, this can be a great place to save money!
Hire a Day-of Wedding Coordinator: A must-have for seamless execution and to preserve your sanity on the day of your Wedding.
2-4 Months Before: Final Touches
Send Invitations: Include RSVP details and meal options.
Write Vows: Start personalizing what you’ll say on your big day.
Create a Seating Chart: Arrange guests based on relationships and comfort.
Book a Hair & Makeup Trial: Ensure you love your final look.
Plan the Rehearsal Dinner: Reserve a location and invite key guests.
Buy Wedding Accessories: Shoes, veil, jewelry, and other finishing touches.
Apply for Marriage License: Check state requirements and deadlines.
1 Month Before: Finalize Everything
Confirm Vendors: Reconfirm arrival times and responsibilities. Your Day of Wedding Coordinator will do this for you.
Break in Your Shoes: Wear them around the house for comfort. Try out your first dance in them!
Practice Your First Dance: Get comfortable with your moves and did we mention your shoes?
Pack for the Honeymoon: Prepare essentials in advance.
Prepare a Wedding Emergency Kit: Include safety pins, makeup, and pain relievers. Your Day of Wedding Coordinator should bring one of their own but be sure to bring any personal items such as prescription medications.
Write Thank-You Notes: Start for early gifts received.
1-2 Weeks Before: Get Ready to Celebrate
Delegate Tasks: Assign someone to handle last-minute details. A Day of Wedding Coordinator can be handy for this, that way your family can just enjoy the wedding!
Attend Final Fittings: Ensure your attire is perfect.
Confirm Guest Count with Caterer: Adjust meals as needed.
Organize Final Payments & Tips: Prepare envelopes for vendors. Your Day of Wedding Coordinator can hand these out for you!
Enjoy a Spa Day: Relax before the big day!
Wedding Day: Enjoy the Moment!
Eat a Good Breakfast: Stay energized.
Stay Hydrated: Keep water nearby.
Stick to the Timeline: Let your coordinator handle logistics.
Take in Every Moment: This day will fly by, so enjoy it!
By following this wedding planning checklist, you’ll feel confident and prepared for your big day. Need help with last-minute coordination? Consider hiring a Day of Wedding Coordinator to ensure everything runs smoothly. Happy planning!