Planning a wedding can be overwhelming. To ensure your big day is everything you’ve dreamed of, a well-organised checklist is essential. Here’s a month-by-month guide to help you stay on track and make your wedding planning journey as smooth as possible.
12 months before the wedding
- Set your budget: Determine how much you can afford to spend and allocate funds to different aspects of the wedding, such as venue, catering, and attire. Be realistic and consider creating a contingency fund for unexpected expenses.
- Draft your guest list: Start compiling a list of everyone you want to invite. This will help you choose the right venue size and manage your budget.
- Choose your date: Decide on a wedding date and be mindful of potential conflicts or peak seasons that could impact availability and cost.
- Book your venue: Research and visit potential venues, and secure your preferred location by booking it well in advance.
- Hire a wedding planner: If you’re opting for professional help, now is the time to hire a wedding planner to assist with the logistics and details.
11 months before the wedding
- Select your wedding party: Choose your bridesmaids, groomsmen, and other key roles. Inform them of their responsibilities and schedule fittings or meetings as needed.
- Begin your dress search: Start shopping for your wedding dress and accessories. Allow time for fittings and alterations.
- Book key vendors: Secure contracts with your photographer, videographer, and florist. These professionals often book up quickly, so act early.
- Create a wedding website: Set up a wedding website to share information with guests, such as the venue, date, and RSVP details.
10 months before the wedding
- Plan your ceremony: Decide on the format and structure of your ceremony, including readings, music, and any special rituals.
- Send save-the-dates: Once you have your guest list and venue confirmed, send out save-the-date cards to ensure your guests reserve the date.
- Taste test: Begin tasting and selecting your caterer. If you’re having a cake, schedule tastings and decide on flavours and designs.
9 months before the wedding
- Book transportation: Arrange transportation for you and your wedding party, including to and from the venue and any necessary shuttles for guests.
- Plan your honeymoon: Research and book your honeymoon destination, flights, and accommodations. Make sure your travel documents are up-to-date.
- Start your registries: Create wedding registries at your favourite stores or online platforms to help guests choose gifts.
8 months before the wedding
- Order invitations: Choose and order your wedding invitations. Be sure to include RSVP cards and any additional information your guests might need.
- Choose your music: Select your ceremony and reception music. If you’re hiring a band or DJ, book them now and discuss your preferred playlist.
- Schedule your hair and makeup trials: Book trials with hair and makeup artists to finalise your look for the big day.
7 months before the wedding
- Finalise your menu: Confirm your catering choices and any dietary restrictions with your caterer.
- Plan your rehearsal dinner: Organise the rehearsal dinner details, including venue, menu, and guest list.
- Purchase wedding bands: Choose and purchase your wedding rings, allowing time for any customisations or engravings.
6 months before the wedding
- Send invitations: Mail out your wedding invitations. Include details about the venue, dress code, and accommodation options if necessary.
- Final dress fittings: Attend your final dress fittings and ensure any last-minute adjustments are made.
- Confirm vendor details: Touch base with all your vendors to confirm arrangements and timing.
3 months before the wedding
- Apply for marriage licence: Check the requirements for obtaining a marriage licence in your location and apply for it.
- Create a seating plan: Draft a seating chart for your reception. Consider any special needs or requests from your guests.
- Prepare for the big day: Schedule any final beauty treatments or spa days, and make sure you have all the necessary items for your wedding day.
1 month before the wedding
- Confirm RSVPs: Follow up with guests who have not yet RSVP’d and finalise the guest list.
- Pack for your honeymoon: Prepare and pack for your honeymoon, ensuring you have all essentials and travel documents.
- Final walkthrough: Visit your venue one last time to review the setup and discuss final details with your coordinator or planner.
1 week before the wedding
- Final details check: Confirm all arrangements with your vendors and bridal party. Review the timeline and any last-minute details.
- Relax and enjoy: Take time for yourself to relax and enjoy the lead-up to your big day. Practice self-care and spend quality time with loved ones.
- Rehearsal: Conduct your rehearsal and review the order of events with your wedding party and officiant.
By following this comprehensive checklist, you’ll be well-prepared for your wedding day.