The Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist: What to Do and When- Wedding Wednesday

Planning a wedding is an exciting journey, but it can also feel overwhelming without a clear roadmap. To help you stay organized and stress-free, we've put together the ultimate wedding planning checklist, breaking down what to do and when.

12+ Months Before the Wedding: Start with the Big Picture

• Set a budget and determine financial contributions.

• Choose a wedding date and start exploring venues.

• Book a wedding planner, if desired.

• Draft a guest list to estimate the size of your wedding.

• Research and secure a venue for the ceremony and reception.

• Choose your wedding theme and colors.

• Book key vendors (photographer, videographer, caterer, and band/DJ).

9-12 Months Before: Brining Your Vision to Life

• Start shopping for your wedding attire.

• Secure and officiant for the ceremony.

• Book a florist, hair and makeup artist, and any additional entertainment.

• Finalize your wedding party and inform them of their roles.

• Set up a wedding website and share key details with guests.

• Start planning the honeymoon (passport, flights, accommodations).

6-9 Months Before: Details, Details, Details

• Send save-the-date cards to guests.

• Select and order wedding invitations.

• Choose attire for the wedding party.

• Plan the decor and floral arrangements.

• Create a registry and share it with guests.

• Arrange hotel accommodations for out-of-town guests.

3-6 Months Before: Finalizing Logistics

• Schedule pre-wedding events like the wedding shower and bachelor/bachelorette parties.

• Have tastings with your caterer and finalize the menu.

• Book transporation for the wedding day.

• Order wedding rings and finalize any custom engravings.

• Confirm the timeline with vendors and create a detailed schedule.

• Begin writing vows if you're doing personlized ones.

1-3 Months Before: The Final Touches

• Send wedding invitations.

• Schedule final dress fittings.

• Obtain your marriage license.

• Finalize seating chart and place card assignments.

• Confirm RSVPs and finalize guest count with vendors.

• Prepare wedding favors and welcome bags.

1-4 Weeks Before: The Home Stretch

• Have a final venue walkthrough.

• Pack for your honeymoon.

• Confirm wedding day itinerary with vendors and wedding party.

• Break in wedding shoes to avoid discomfort on the big day.

• Get beauty treatments with facials, haircuts, and waxing.

• Pick up your wedding attire and accessories.

Wedding Week: Time to Celebrate!

• Get plenty of rest and stay hydrated.

• Rehearse the ceremony with the wedding party and officiant.

• Pack an emergency kit (safety pins, tissues, stain remover, etc).

• Take a deep breath and soak in every moment- your big day is here!

By following this timeline, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free wedding planning experience!