Wedding Planning: A Month-by-Month Guide

Planning a wedding can be an exciting yet overwhelming task. Breaking it down into monthly steps can help ensure everything runs smoothly, and no detail is overlooked. Here’s a comprehensive month-by-month guide to planning your perfect wedding.

12 Months Before the Wedding

Set Your Budget

• Determine how much you’re willing to spend.
• Discuss financial contributions with family members, if applicable.
• Allocate funds for different aspects of the wedding (venue, attire, catering, etc.).

Create a Guest List

• Draft an initial list of invitees.
• Consider the size of your venue and budget constraints.

Choose a Date and Venue

• Pick a few potential dates.
• Tour venues and book your favorite.

Hire a Wedding Planner (Optional)

• If you need assistance, now’s the time to find a planner who fits your style and budget.

11 Months Before the Wedding

Choose Your Bridal Party

• Decide who you want by your side.
• Ask your bridesmaids and groomsmen to be part of your special day.

Start Researching Vendors

• Begin looking into photographers, videographers, florists, and caterers.
• Read reviews, ask for recommendations, and schedule consultations.

10 Months Before the Wedding

Book Key Vendors

• Secure your photographer, videographer, caterer, and florist.
• Sign contracts and make deposits.

Shop for Your Dress

• Start shopping for your wedding dress.
• Consider different styles and designers.
• Schedule fittings once you’ve chosen your dress.

9 Months Before the Wedding

Send Save-the-Dates

• Finalize your guest list.
• Send save-the-date cards to your guests.

Register for Gifts

• Create your wedding registry.
• Select items in various price ranges.

8 Months Before the Wedding

Plan Your Honeymoon

• Decide on a honeymoon destination.
• Book flights and accommodations.

Book Entertainment

• Choose a DJ or band for your reception.
• Consider any additional entertainment (photo booth, live performances, etc.).

7 Months Before the Wedding

Order Bridesmaid Dresses

• Choose and order dresses for your bridesmaids.
• Schedule fittings if necessary.

Book Hair and Makeup Artists

• Find a stylist and makeup artist.
• Schedule trials to determine your look.

6 Months Before the Wedding

Arrange Transportation

• Book transportation for the wedding day (limos, buses, etc.).
• Consider transportation for guests, if necessary.

Plan the Ceremony

• Meet with your officiant to discuss the ceremony details.
• Choose readings, music, and vows.

5 Months Before the Wedding

Finalize the Menu

• Work with your caterer to choose a menu.
• Schedule a tasting to ensure the food meets your expectations.

Order the Cake

• Find a bakery and design your wedding cake.
• Schedule a tasting and place your order.

4 Months Before the Wedding

Purchase Wedding Bands

• Shop for and purchase wedding rings.
• Ensure they’re sized correctly.

Confirm Rentals

• Finalize any rental needs (tables, chairs, linens, etc.).
• Confirm delivery and setup times with your venue.

3 Months Before the Wedding

Send Invitations

• Mail out your wedding invitations.
• Include RSVP instructions and deadlines.

Plan the Rehearsal Dinner

• Choose a location for the rehearsal dinner.
• Send out invitations to the bridal party and immediate family.

2 Months Before the Wedding

Confirm Details with Vendors

• Touch base with all your vendors to confirm arrangements.
• Provide final guest count to the caterer.

Start Seating Arrangements

• Begin planning where your guests will sit.
• Create a seating chart or place cards.

1 Month Before the Wedding

Obtain Marriage License

• Apply for your marriage license.
• Check state-specific requirements and deadlines.

Final Dress Fitting

• Have your final wedding dress fitting.
• Ensure it fits perfectly and make any necessary adjustments.

2 Weeks Before the Wedding

Finalize the Schedule

• Create a detailed timeline for the wedding day.
• Share it with your vendors, bridal party, and family.

Pack for the Honeymoon

• Start packing for your honeymoon.
• Ensure you have all necessary documents and reservations.

1 Week Before the Wedding

Confirm RSVPs

• Follow up with any guests who haven’t responded.
• Provide the final headcount to your caterer.

Prepare Payments

• Organize final payments for vendors.
• Have checks or cash ready for the wedding day.

Day Before the Wedding

Rehearse the Ceremony

• Hold the rehearsal at the venue.
• Ensure everyone knows their roles and the schedule.

Relax and Enjoy

• Spend time with family and friends.
• Get a good night’s sleep.

Wedding Day

Celebrate

• Enjoy your special day.
• Trust your planning and savor every moment.

By following this month-by-month guide, you can ensure that every detail of your wedding is planned to perfection, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey to your special day.