Wedding planning is an adventure. If you are just beginning yours, you might be in need of a few checklists to keep the planning organized. We gathered tips from wedding planners to bring you the ultimate list of things to do. Let’s talk weddings and create your wedding planning checklist.
The First Month of Wedding Planning
The first month of wedding planning is probably just as nerve-wrecking as the last. Before you even begin the planning details, you will make the big announcement, celebrate with an engagement party and pick a wedding date. As soon as you make the announcement, everyone will anxiously push for you to reveal the date. Pick a wedding date that works with your timeline and doesn’t feel rushed. Take your engagement photos and send out your save-the-dates as soon as you pick the day. This will put your special day on hold for your guests. Take the time to create your budget, create a total guest count, scroll through inspirational pages on social media and tour wedding venues.
The Second Month of Wedding Planning
The second month of wedding planning begins to feel more real. This is when you will begin the search for the dream location. Once you pin the map, you will need to narrow down the search to one magical wedding venue. Book your wedding venue before you plan any other details. After you have secured a venue, you can start picking your wedding party. Hire your caterer, photographer and entertainment before other vendors. These are extremely important vendors that will define your entire event.
Month Three on the Timeline
Your wedding day might seem like it is so far away, but avoid falling into a pattern of procrastination. Move forward at the required pace and start shopping for important wedding fashion details. Shop for the wedding dress and tux. You probably need to schedule a couple fittings before the wedding. This is also the time to reserve a hotel block for out-of-town guests. You might want to reserve a room to enjoy with the wedding party on the night before and on the morning of your wedding day. Create a gift registry. Create a wedding website to share wedding planning information. Once you have accomplished these tasks, take a breath, because there is so much more to plan.
Four to Six Months of Planning
You are getting closer to the finish line, yet there is so much more to do. You will not be sending out invitations until about six to eight weeks before your wedding day, but you will need to start shopping paper, fonts, techniques and embellishments. If you are hiring a calligrapher for invitations and table cards, you will need the extra time on the timeline. Plan the honeymoon. Planning a honeymoon takes thought and time to make it a truly magical experience. Think about your destination and make travel arrangements. Shop for the wedding party. Traditionally, the wedding party purchases their own wedding attire; however, you will need to provide guidance and go dress shopping. Hire your officiant. Arrange transportation, limos and cars. Make sure that you have secured your transportation for your grand entrance and exit. Create your day of event timeline. This will involve the timing for all of the wedding day events, such as the cutting of the cake, the first dance and bouquet toss. About six months before your wedding day, you should design your wedding cake.
The Last Few Months of Wedding Planning
There is still more wedding planning ahead. Traditionally, the parents of the groom plan a rehearsal dinner, which usually involves a venue and catering. The rehearsal dinner occurs a couple days before the wedding, but the details will need to be planned in advance. Provide your bridal shower host with your guest list. Create a playlist for your deejay or band. Finalize the floral arrangements. Purchase favors for your guests. Schedule another fitting for your wedding dress and bridal party. Purchase the wedding rings. If you want the glamorous look, secure your hair and makeup artist. Connect with your vendors and make sure they have your day of event timeline. Go over details with your photographer. Mail out invitations six to eight weeks prior to your wedding day. During the last month of wedding planning, you will be counting RSVP’s, giving a final headcount to your caterer and venue, applying for your marriage license, scheduling a last fitting, making sure all of your vendors are paid, creating a seating chart, preparing your wedding favors and writing your vows. You will probably attend the bridal shower a couple months before your wedding day.
The Final Week
The last week of wedding planning should be about you. Relax, go to a spa with your wedding party and take the time to reflect. You will need to follow up with vendors during the final week. Make sure your day of event coordinator has your timeline and list for who will be bustling your dress and carrying out specific tasks. Pick up the dress, tux and wedding party attire. Pack for your honeymoon. Attend the rehearsal dinner and bachelor or bachelorette party. Make sure everything is laid out and packed the day before your wedding.
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