Hey there bride-to-be,
Congratulations on your engagement! This is such a special time, and I’m beyond excited to help you navigate the planning process. With so many details to consider, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start, but you know what? You don't have to do it alone.
Our wedding checklist is designed to guide you every step of the way, making sure you don't miss any important details. From vendor bookings to guest list management and attire planning, our checklist covers all aspects of your wedding. Let’s dive in and start creating the wedding of your dreams (PS. snag our FREE 10 page Wedding Planning Checklist & Task Planner here)
9 Months Before:
Set Your Budget
Setting a budget is key to managing expenses and making informed decisions. Estimate costs for essentials like the venue, catering, and attire. Allocate funds for each category and track your spending to avoid going overboard. A well-planned budget will help you prioritize your spending and ensure you have enough for the must-haves.
Choose Your Wedding Date & Time
Pick a date and time considering the season, venue availability, and any meaningful dates for you as a couple. Selecting your date early helps in booking your preferred venues and vendors and gives your guests ample time to plan. Consider the weather, holidays, and the schedules of key family and friends.
Draft a Guest List
Start drafting your guest list to get an idea of the number of attendees. This influences your venue choice and catering needs. Creating an A-list and B-list can help manage invitations based on your venue capacity and budget. Keep in mind that your guest list might change as you get closer to the wedding date, so stay flexible.
Book Your Ceremony & Reception Venues
Secure your venues early to ensure availability. Consider the size, location, and amenities of each venue. Visit several options, ask detailed questions, and read reviews to make an informed decision. Booking early can also help you save on costs. Check if the venue provides in-house services like catering and décor, which could simplify your planning process.
8 Months Before:
Book Key Vendors
Start booking essential vendors like photographers, videographers, caterers, musicians, and stylists. Schedule meetings or calls to discuss your vision and ensure they align with your expectations. Carefully review contracts for payment schedules, cancellation policies, and services provided. It's crucial to choose vendors who understand your style and can work within your budget.
Buy Your Wedding Dress
Start shopping for your wedding dress to allow time for fittings and alterations. Bring trusted friends or family for opinions and book appointments at bridal shops in advance. Consider your wedding theme, venue, and personal style when choosing your dress. Don't forget to account for accessories, jewelry, and shoes when planning your attire.
7 Months Before:
Send Out Save the Dates
Send out save the dates to give your guests plenty of time to mark their calendars. This is especially important if you're planning a destination wedding or have many out-of-town guests. Aim to send these 6-8 months before the wedding date. Include key information like the wedding date, location, and a link to your wedding website if you have one. You can find our beautiful cost-effective customizable save the dates here.
6 Months Before:
Plan the Order of Ceremony
Create a detailed ceremony outline with your officiant. Discuss the order of events, readings, music, and any rituals you wish to include. This ensures a smooth flow and allows everyone involved to know their roles. Make sure to rehearse the ceremony a few times to iron out any kinks and ensure everyone is comfortable with their parts.
Finalize Guest Lists for Pre-Wedding Celebrations
Confirm guest lists for bridal showers, bachelorette parties, and rehearsal dinners. Coordinate with your bridal party to plan these events and make sure to include everyone who should be there. Having a final list helps in organizing the events and ensuring that no one is left out.
5 Months Before:
First Dress Fitting
Schedule your first dress fitting and book any necessary alterations. This ensures your dress fits perfectly and allows time for any adjustments needed closer to the wedding date.
4 Months Before:
Finalize Wedding Invitations and Signage
Design and finalize your wedding invitations and signage. Ensure the details are accurate and reflect your wedding theme. Include RSVP instructions and deadlines. Make sure the design matches the overall theme and color scheme of your wedding. Check out our wedding invitations and full wedding suites here
Double-Check Addresses
Make sure you have all the addresses you need for sending out invitations. Cross-check your guest list and update any missing or incorrect information.
3 Months Before:
Finalize Wedding Attire and Accessories
Purchase your accessories including your veil, jewelry, and shoes. Finalize bridal party accessories and get measurements for the men's tuxes. Confirm your wedding day look well in advance to allow time for any necessary adjustments. Ensure that all attire is ordered and arrives in time for any alterations needed.
2 Months Before:
Mail Out the Invitations
Send out invitations and track RSVPs. Include important details like the venue address, dress code, and RSVP deadline. Use an online tool or spreadsheet to manage responses and meal choices if applicable (Etsy has some great, very affordable spreadsheet tools). Follow up with any guests who haven’t responded by the RSVP deadline to get an accurate headcount.
1 Month Before:
Purchase Gifts for Special People
Choose thoughtful gifts for your wedding party, parents, and other significant contributors to your wedding. Personalize these gifts to show your appreciation for their support. Consider gifts that have a special meaning or are practical for the recipients.
Write Your Vows
Spend time writing personal vows that reflect your relationship and commitments to each other. Practice reading them aloud and make sure they are heartfelt and genuine. If you’re nervous about public speaking, practice in front of a mirror or with a friend to gain confidence.
Week of the Wedding:
Confirm Venue & Vendor Bookings
Double-check all bookings and appointments with vendors to ensure everything is on track. Confirm final details with your venue, photographer, caterer, and other key vendors. Make sure everyone has the correct times and locations and knows their responsibilities.
Prepare Your Day-Of Timeline
Create a detailed timeline for the wedding day. Delegate tasks to trusted friends or family members to ensure everything runs smoothly. Include key times for hair and makeup, transportation, photos, and the ceremony. Having a detailed plan helps reduce stress and ensures everyone is on the same page.
I hope these steps will help ensure a smooth planning process and a memorable wedding day. Download the full wedding planning checklist for a comprehensive guide to your big day here:
Shop our beautiful invitations and signage here: Pretty Peonies Shop