Wedding planning checklist
A step-by-step wedding planning checklist, from setting the budget to the final week before the big day.

12 MONTHS BEFORE
- Agree on a total budget and who is contributing what
- Set a rough guest count
- Choose a date, with one or two backup dates
- Book the ceremony and reception venues
- Decide on the style and season of the wedding
- Start a shared document for vendor quotes and contracts

9 TO 10 MONTHS BEFORE
- Book the photographer and videographer
- Book the caterer or confirm the venue menu options
- Book the officiant or confirm civil ceremony requirements and paperwork
- Hire a band, DJ or playlist plan for the reception
- Reserve a block of rooms for out-of-town guests
- Send save-the-dates

6 TO 8 MONTHS BEFORE
- Choose the wedding party and ask them
- Shop for wedding attire for both partners
- Order the wedding rings
- Book the florist or decide on decorations
- Book transport for the day
- Plan the honeymoon and check passport validity

3 TO 5 MONTHS BEFORE
- Order and send formal invitations with a reply-by date
- Taste the menu and choose the cake
- Book hair and makeup and schedule a trial
- Plan the ceremony order, readings and music
- Arrange rentals: tables, chairs, lighting, linens
- Start the seating plan draft

1 TO 2 MONTHS BEFORE
- Chase outstanding RSVPs
- Confirm final guest count with the caterer
- Finalize the seating plan and print place cards
- Confirm timings and arrival times with every vendor
- Write vows and speeches
- Do the final attire fitting
- Apply for the marriage licence or complete legal requirements in your area

THE WEEK BEFORE
- Pay the final vendor balances and prepare tip envelopes
- Pack for the honeymoon
- Send the day-of schedule to the wedding party and family
- Assign someone to handle questions and last-minute issues on the day
- Prepare a day-of emergency kit: sewing kit, pain relief, stain remover, tape
- Deliver decorations, signs and favours to the venue

THE DAY ITSELF
- Eat a proper breakfast and drink water
- Bring the rings, licence and vendor contact list
- Hand the payment envelopes to a trusted person
- Take group photos while everyone is present
- Make sure someone takes gifts and cards home safely

AFTER THE WEDDING
- Return rented items and attire
- Send thank-you notes
- Order the marriage certificate copies you need
- Update names and addresses on documents if needed
- Back up and share the photos and video