Wedding planning checklist

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