The excitement of being newly engaged often gives way to uncertainty about what to do next. With the prospect of planning a wedding looming, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. But fear not! With our comprehensive wedding planner checklist, you’ll be able to tackle each task with ease and confidence. This 12-month timeline is flexible enough to accommodate your unique schedule, whether you have more time or less.
And for those who need to plan their special day in a hurry, we also offer a guide on how to do it in just three months.
Wedding Checklist by Month
Plan your wedding with ease using this comprehensive to-do list! This month-by-month guide keeps track of tasks and helps you stay on schedule. You can download a printable wedding planning checklist to store in your binder or bookmark this page as you complete each task. Remember, not every item on the list will apply to every wedding – for instance, if you’re hosting a backyard ceremony, you won’t need to worry about booking a venue.
Instead, use what’s relevant to your own unique wedding plans. To get started, simply download the checklist and begin checking off tasks as you go along!
12+ Months Out
Before diving into the intricacies of wedding planning, take a step back and savor the excitement of being newly engaged! With ample time to prepare – a whole year or more, in fact – don’t overlook the joy of announcing your engagement, celebrating with an intimate party, and capturing those special moments on camera. As you begin to envision the perfect day, consider the bigger picture elements: budget, season, and ideal date, as well as the roles of your bridesmaids and groomsmen.
Who will you invite, and what kind of experience do you want to create for them? Take a deep breath, relax, and allow yourself time to ponder these questions.
Ultimately, this is your wedding – so let’s get started by:Announcing your engagement and celebrating with loved onesThrowing an unforgettable engagement party or gatheringScheduling those special engagement photoshootsDiscussing budget details with your partner and determining who’s covering whatChoosing the ideal wedding date, with a few backup options in mindSelecting the members of your wedding partyCrafting that initial guest list – don’t worry, it’ll evolve over timeHiring a wedding planner if you want to streamline the processVisiting potential venues for your ceremony and reception, aiming to book at least 9 months prior to the big dayResearching local wedding vendors and their services
6 – 7 Months Out
As your wedding day approaches, you’ll want to ensure all details are in place. With six months to go, it’s time to lock down your guest list and dispatch save-the-dates. This milestone also marks the beginning of some of the most enjoyable aspects of wedding planning – think cake tastings! Meanwhile, you should start scouting out hair and makeup artists for the big day, selecting attire for groomsmen, and finalizing logistics for reception and ceremony decorations.
With the wedding now just around the corner, take a moment to review your to-do list and double-check that everything is accounted for.
To stay on track, be sure to tackle these key tasks:
Finalize your guest list and send out save-the-dates,
Book the rehearsal dinner venue (if you’re hosting this event),
Order rental items for the venue, including unique tables or chairs, linens, lighting, decorative furniture, tents, and other decorative elements.
Hire sound and lighting professionals as needed,
Research wedding day hair and makeup inspiration,
Schedule cake tastings to decide on your wedding desserts,
Plan bachelor and bachelorette parties,
Determine what attire groomsmen will wear,
Purchase the bride’s and groom’s wedding bands.
4 – 5 Months Out
As the wedding date approaches, it’s essential to tie up loose ends. With only a few months left before the big day, you should focus on finalizing logistical details. This includes arranging transportation for guests, the wedding party, and yourself. Additionally, book accommodations for your wedding night stay and plan your honeymoon travel arrangements (if you’re leaving immediately after the ceremony).
For the bride’s side of things, schedule any necessary dress fittings with your bridesmaids. On the groom’s side, purchase or rent his tuxedo and arrange for his attire to be tailored if needed. It’s also crucial to confirm rehearsal dinner plans and finalize details with vendors such as the officiant, hair and makeup artists, florists, DJs or bands, and caterers (if applicable). Make sure to order your wedding cake, invitations, and any other necessary items.
Confirm the bridal shower plans with your bridesmaids, and don’t forget to discuss the ceremony logistics with your officiant. Overall, this is a great time to get everything in place so you can relax and enjoy the celebration.
1 Month Out
As the wedding countdown begins, take a comprehensive review of your planning checklist to ensure nothing slips through the cracks. This is an ideal time to schedule a final walk-through of the venue with your day-of coordinator or even your trusted maid of honor. Meanwhile, update your guest list with the latest RSVPs and make any last-minute purchases or finalize outstanding details.
Don’t forget to address other crucial tasks like acquiring alcohol for the celebration (if applicable) and confirming bar arrangements with the venue. Additionally, consider ordering place cards and preparing thoughtful thank-you gifts for your wedding party members. Take a moment to inspect the fit of your wedding bands – if you haven’t already picked them up – and revisit your guest list as RSVPs continue to roll in.
Finally, perform a thorough double-check of your planning checklist to catch any lingering details that might have escaped notice.
2 Weeks Out
As the big day approaches, it’s time to put the finishing touches on your wedding preparations. With just two weeks to go, you can start by addressing any outstanding RSVPs. If there are still guests who haven’t responded, consider giving them a polite call to confirm their attendance and get an accurate headcount for vendors like your venue and caterer. Once that’s done, it’s time to focus on the finer details.
Make sure to follow up with anyone who didn’t respond to your initial invitation, and then provide your final guest count to all relevant parties. You should also take care of any last-minute beauty treatments you want to get done, such as hair coloring or waxing. In addition to taking care of yourself, you’ll also want to wrap up any DIY projects that are still on your plate. This is a great opportunity to put the finishing touches on any decorations or crafts that need attention.
Finally, take some time to plan out your day-of timeline and delegate tasks to others where possible. This will help ensure that everything runs smoothly and that you can focus on enjoying your special day. And don’t forget to break in those wedding shoes a few days before the big event – you wouldn’t want any discomfort or blisters ruining your perfect day.
1 Week Out
As the countdown begins, take a moment to collect yourself. With just one week left until the big day, it’s essential to prioritize self-care and ensure every aspect of the wedding is in order. Take advantage of this final stretch to indulge in some pampering, whether that’s a relaxing spa treatment or a beauty routine to get your skin glowing for the big day.
In addition to taking care of yourself, use this time to tie up any loose ends with vendors.
Confirm all details, finalize payments and tip arrangements, and make sure you have everything you need in one place.
Don’t forget to prep for the wedding itself! Book your bridal manicure and pedicure, rehearse your vows until they feel natural, and pack a bag with essentials like bobby pins, tissues, and any other items that might come in handy.
And don’t neglect your honeymoon planning – double-check travel arrangements, confirm reservations, and make sure you have all necessary documents in order.
Last but not least, take a moment to give your wedding ring some TLC. Clean it thoroughly and store it safely until the big day. With these final details taken care of, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy the lead-up to your special day.
The Day Before the Wedding
The day preceding your wedding provides an ideal opportunity to prioritize self-care and preparation. To ensure a energized and focused start to your special day, indulge in wholesome meals that cater to your nutritional needs. Additionally, replenish your body with copious amounts of water throughout the day. As you finalize the last-minute preparations, utilize this time wisely by attending the wedding rehearsal and enjoying the rehearsal dinner with loved ones.
Ensure a seamless transition into your wedding attire by packing all necessary items in advance, including any personal touches or sentimental objects. Lastly, prioritize a restful night’s sleep to guarantee that you’re well-rested and ready to take on the excitement of your big day.
The Day of the Wedding
As the big day unfolds, remember to savor each instant, even amidst any last-minute jitters. Don’t let minor mishaps ruin the magic – focus on soaking up every moment with loved ones.
To ensure a seamless celebration, be sure to: fuel up with nourishing bites and hydrating sips; give your attire a final once-over (steaming those dresses and tuxes if needed); entrust any lingering tasks to capable hands; discreetly hand over payment for the wedding bands and officiant to the best man; express heartfelt gratitude to vendors, family, and friends who’ve lent their support; and above all, revel in the joy of this unforgettable day!
After the Wedding
After the excitement of the big day has subsided, focus on wrapping up loose ends. If you’re embarking on a honeymoon immediately after, be sure to savor every moment. Once back and settled in, make it a priority to express gratitude to loved ones by sending thank-you notes, ideally within a reasonable timeframe. Next, take care of any rentals or borrowed items, ensuring they’re returned promptly. Additionally, store your wedding gown safely to preserve its beauty for years to come.
Don’t forget to follow up with your photographer for the photos you’ll treasure forever. Lastly, if you’re taking on a new last name, initiate the process to make it official. By tackling these tasks, you’ll be well on your way to settling into married life.
Full List of Wedding Vendors
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to selecting the right vendors. Some are essential, like your officiant, while others, such as videographers or wedding planners, may be optional but still valuable in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. To help you navigate this process, here’s a comprehensive list of potential vendors you might consider hiring for your special day:You’ll want to secure a venue that fits your vision and guest count.
A wedding planner or day-of coordinator can help streamline the logistics and ensure everything runs smoothly. If you’re looking to make a statement with your decor, consider hiring a wedding designer. For sustenance, choose from a caterer who can provide a customized menu for your guests. Don’t forget about the bartender, who’ll keep drinks flowing throughout the celebration. A florist will help bring your vision to life with beautiful arrangements and decorations.
Capturing memories is crucial, which is why you’ll want to hire a photographer and videographer to capture every moment. Music plays a vital role in setting the tone for your big day; choose between a DJ or wedding band to keep the party going. To complete the look, consider hiring a hair stylist, makeup artist, and jeweler. If alterations are needed, enlist the help of a seamstress.
For stationery lovers, a calligrapher can create beautiful invitations, while an invitation service will handle all the logistics of sending out those important pieces of paper.
