planning 12+ MONTHS
TIMELINE
9-11 MONTHS
6-8 MONTHS
Announce your engagement
Book your ceremony + reception site
Register for gifts
Having an engagement party? Set the date, make a guest list, and send out invites.
Book your officiant, priest or minister
Plan the ceremony with your officiant
Choose your wedding party and decide on roles for other important family and friends
Take engagement pictures
Decide your style + color palette Create your wedding budget Choose a wedding date and time Book your ceremony & reception site Create your guest list Create your wedding website Book any priority vendors Choose a wedding planner
Book your caterer and begin thinking about your reception menu
Begin planning your honeymoon Research hair and makeup artists Meet with and book a cake vendor
Say “Yes to the Dress”
Decide on your bridesmaids’ dresses
Finalize your guest list
Block out hotel rooms for guests
Hire a photographer & videographer
Order & send save-the-dates
Hire Musicans/DJ’s
Plan the rehearsal dinner
Hire your Florist
Order your invitations
Book your Rental Company
Create a menu with your caterer Be sure your bridesmaids have ordered their dresses
4-5 MONTHS Finalize the floral proposal Decide on attire for the guys Book a calligrapher Finalize your rentals Make honeymoon reservations and be sure your passports are current Research travel Insurance & purchase it Address the invitations Book your wedding night accommodations Book the rehearsal dinner location and finalize the menu
3-4 MONTHS Choose accessories & details for your wedding party Schedule facials, haircuts, and root touch ups Attend pre-wedding counseling Browse for and buy wedding rings Decide on wedding favors Book transportation Confirm the delivery date of your dress and schedule fittings Celebrate at your bridal shower Decide on ceremony readings and reach out to those you want involved
2 MONTHS Send out your wedding invitations Work on the ceremony programs Have your bachelorette party Buy your veil, shoes, & accessories Decide on your something old, new, borrowed, and blue Arrange for child care for reception Figure out what is needed for your marriage license Check on hotel reservations and block out more rooms if needed Attend your first dress fitting
Start writing your vows
Schedule hair and makeup trial appointments for a month before
Write your reception song lists for must-play & do-not-play songs
Get started on thank you notes for the gifts already received
