The Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist

12 Months Before the Wedding

Set a Budget: Determine how much you're willing to spend on your wedding.
Create a Guest List: Decide who will be invited to the wedding.
Choose a Date: Select your wedding date and have a backup option.
Select a Venue: Book your ceremony and reception venues.
Hire a Wedding Planner: If desired, hire a professional wedding planner.
Research Vendors: Begin researching and interviewing potential vendors (caterers, photographers, florists, etc.).
Purchase a Wedding Dress: Start shopping for your dream wedding gown.

9-11 Months Before the Wedding

Book Vendors: Secure your chosen vendors with signed contracts.
Send Save-the-Dates: Notify guests about your wedding date.
Choose Bridal Party: Ask friends and family to be part of your bridal party.

6-8 Months Before the Wedding

Plan Catering: Finalize menu and catering details.
Order Invitations: Select and order your wedding invitations.
Arrange Transportation: Book transportation for the wedding day.

4-5 Months Before the Wedding

Purchase Wedding Rings: Shop for wedding bands.
Plan Honeymoon: Begin planning your honeymoon.
Register for Gifts: Create a wedding gift registry.

2-3 Months Before the Wedding

Finalize Guest List: Send invitations and track RSVPs.
Confirm Details: Confirm arrangements with all vendors.
Plan Ceremony: Work on ceremony details, vows, and readings.

1 Month Before the Wedding

Obtain Marriage License: Secure the necessary legal documents.
Confirm Details: Reconfirm all vendor arrangements.
Finalize Seating: Create a seating plan for the reception.
Pack for Honeymoon: Prepare for your honeymoon trip.

1-2 Weeks Before the Wedding

Beauty Treatments: Schedule beauty treatments and hair/makeup trials.
Final Dress Fitting: Ensure your dress fits perfectly.
Delegate Tasks: Assign day-of tasks to trusted individuals.

1-2 Days Before the Wedding

Rehearsal: Attend the wedding rehearsal.
Wedding Attire: Lay out your wedding attire and accessories.

The Wedding Day

Get Married: Enjoy your special day!

After the Wedding

Thank You Cards: Send thank-you cards to guests and vendors.

This checklist is a general guide, and you can adapt it to your specific needs and preferences. Wedding planning can be a complex process, so staying organized is key. Consider using wedding planning apps or software to help manage your tasks and timeline. Good luck with your wedding planning journey!