Wedding Planning Timeline

 

You’re engaged! Now what? It can often seem like a daunting task to plan and execute your wedding, and many couples often do not know where to start. Don’t worry, we’ve created a timeline that breaks down planning tasks month by month to help you get started. 

 
 

12-18 Months

After getting engaged, one of the first things you want to do is hire a wedding planner to help you get the foundation of your wedding day set. Here are some things to keep in mind and get done as early as possible:

  • Hire Planner

  • Book Venue

  • Book Rehearsal Dinner

  • Make Guest List

 
 

9 Months

Once you have decided on where and when your wedding will be, you want to send out your save the dates and start to hire your vendors. Here are some items you won’t want to forget to do ahead of time and vendors that you will want to book:

  • Create a Wedding Website

  • Send Save The Date

  • Hire Caterer, Photographer, Videographer, DJ/Band, Florist, Hair, Makeup, Rentals, Lighting, and Transportation

  • Make a Hotel Room Block to reserve rooms

6 Months

When you are 6 months out you want to start taking care of the day of details that might take a little more time to get done, such as making sure your wedding party is getting their attire and deciding the wedding design.  

  • Have Design Meetings with Florist, Rentals, Lighting

  • Find Wedding Party Attire

  • Do Hair and Makeup Trials

  • Book Cake/Dessert

 
 

3 Months

When you are 3 months out, things really start to feel real! This is when you want to send out your invitations and start to finalize more day of details.  Don’t forget to finish and update your wedding website with final timings and details so guests can get all the information they need.

  • Send Invitations

  • Secure Insurance

  • Compile Your Song List

  • Work with your Stationery Vendor on Day of Paper Items

  • Sort Out Guest Welcome Gifts

  • Order Guest Book (if using)

  • Make Photographer Shot List

  • Design Day of Paper Items

  • Create a Plan for Reception Seating - escort cards, seating chart, etc

 
 

1 Month

Now that you are one month out it is time to get the final details in place! You will want to make sure you have all your RSVPs so you can finalize the seating chart and have a final head count. And don’t forget one of the most important things, your marriage license! 

  • Apply for Marriage License

  • Collect all RSVP Stragglers

  • Finalize Seating Charts + Floorplans

  • Send Photographer Shot List

  • Send Day of Timeline to Wedding Party

  • Prep Tip Envelopes

Planning a wedding can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be if you stick to a timeline and plan ahead as much as possible. Following this checklist and having a wedding planner by your side will help make your wedding a stress free and enjoyable day for you and your guests.  

 
 
Laura Gardner