Throughout our planning process I'll update this list so you can see what we've accomplished. Not to mention it's always fun to cross off items from a list (I guess that's my inner type-A coming out).
6+ Months Out
Think about the type of wedding you want - formal / informal, big / small, and time of yearSet BudgetHire Wedding CoordinatorCompile guest list, and organize addressesFinalize wedding dateReserve ceremony and reception sitesChoose attendantsOrder dressand accessories, including veil and shoesBook officiantBook caterer- Order wedding cake
- Book florist
Book musicfor ceremony andreceptionBook photographerand videographerPlan and book honeymoonSend Save-the-Date cards
4-6 Months Out
- Reserve rental equipment (tables, chairs and tents)
- Arrange transportation for the wedding
- Order stationary, including invitations and thank-you notes; book calligrapher if using
- Register for gifts
- Purchase wedding rings
- Purchase or reserve groom's attire
- Choose attendant's attire
- Buy any other special undergarments the dress requires
Choose favors- Book a room for the wedding night
- Choose gifts for the wedding party
Reserve accommodation for out-of-town guestsSign up for dance lessons - N/A
2-4 Months Out
- Discuss the details of the menu with the caterer
- Discuss service with the officiant
- Choose readings for the ceremony
- Write wedding vows
- Schedule rehearsal time and rehearsal dinner
- Try out makeup and hairstyle
- Mail invitations
- Write thank you notes as gifts arrive
1-2 Months Out
- Buy or DIY guestbook
- Have programs made or DIY Program
- If your state requires blood tests, make appointments
- Obtain marriage license, and request certified copies
- If changing your name, prepare the necessary documents
2 Weeks Out
- Have final dress fitting with shoes, accessories and undergarments
- Begin seating plan and write placecards
- Notify caterer of guest count
- Write toasts for rehearsal dinner and wedding reception
- Address announcements
- Break in wedding shoes at home
- Find out where gifts will be staying if delivering gift bags or welcome notes
1 Week Out
- Finalize seating plan
- Assign specifc responsibilities, such as handing out corsages to members wedding party
- Pick up dress or have it delivered
- Confirm details with caterer
- Confirm honeymoon arrangements, give itinerary to a friend or family member
- Pack for honeymoon
- Update caterer with final guest count and vendor meal counts
1-3 Days Before
- Confirm transportation arrangements for ceremony and reception
- Give announcements to an attendant for mailing after the wedding
- Get a Mani-pedi
- Rehearse ceremony
- Hold rehearsal dinner, give gifts to wedding party and parents for support
- Prepare tip and payment envelopes for officiant and vendors Assign someone to distribute
