Countdown to the Big Day

Weddings take time to organize. For most of us it’s the most time consuming and complex event we will ever attempt. Here is a comprehensive list of activities and the time lines necessary to have a successful and memorable wedding. The two of you are entering into a lifetime partnership so don’t hesitate to share these responsibilities with your future spouse.

COUNT DOWN TO THE Big Day

10-12 Months Before (as soon as you get engaged)

♥ Announce your engagement ♥ Arrange a meeting with both sides of the family ♥ Decide on a wedding date ♥ Discuss your budget with everyone involved in the wedding ♥ If using a wedding planner ask for recommendations and start the interview process ♥ Look for reception sites ♥ Shop for your wedding gown ♥ Book a venue

♥ Hire an Officiant 7-9 Months Before

♥ Choose a wedding party ♥ Get your bridal registry started ♥ Order your wedding gown ♥ Select what type of food you are having and choose a catering service ♥ Shop for bridesmaid dresses and groomsmen tuxedos ♥ Hire a photographer and videographer ♥ Choose your florist ♥ Book your DJ or Band

♥ Shop for your cake ♥ Shop for wedding rings 5-7 Months Before

♥ Order or make your wedding invitations ♥ Hire your limousine driver or other transportation ♥ Hire your hair stylist ♥ Compile a guest list ♥ Start planning your honeymoon destination ♥ Order your rings 2-4 Months Before

♥ Send out RSVP invitations

♥ Arrange your rehearsal dinner

♥ Get fitted for tuxedos

♥ Meet with DJ or Band to discuss ceremony and reception music ♥ Order bridesmaid gifts and groomsmen gifts ♥ Order your wedding cake ♥ Order your wedding favors and place card holders

YOU SAID SO WHAT’S NEXT?Yes!

5-8 Weeks Before

♥ Decide on your makeup and do a quick check wearing your headpiece ♥ Make any alterations to your wedding dress ♥ Call the clerk’s office to find out the requirements for your marriage-license ♥ Critical insurance information that might need changing 2-4 Weeks Before

♥ Confirm all the details with your DJ, florist, caterer and any other service you’re booking ♥ Decide on the seating arrangements ♥ Give your caterer a final count of your wedding guests ♥ Pack for your honeymoon ♥ Assign simple tasks such as transporting all reception and ceremony items

♥ Write a nice toast 1 Day Before

♥ Have the planner reconfirm details such as transport arrangements, flowers, music, cake delivery, photography, etc. ♥ Try to get an early night ♥ Take a deep breath you’re almost there! On that special day

♥ Before you leave the house, take time to thank your mother and father, bridesmaids and other attendants for all their help and support and give each of them a gift ♥ Relax and have fun on your big day!

After the Honeymoon

♥ Send out your thank-you notes and include a reference to the gift. ♥ For the caterers, entertainers, florists, etc. that gave good service, write them a thank you letter praising their professionalism. ♥ Finally, begin your married life!