Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, but with the right timeline, you can make the process smooth and enjoyable. Whether you’re newly engaged or just starting to get organized, this month-by-month wedding planning checklist will ensure that every detail is covered so you can walk down the aisle stress-free!
12+ Months Before the Wedding:
The Foundation of the Timeline
- Set Your Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend and allocate funds accordingly—think of it as your first big teamwork test as a couple!
- Create a Guest List: Draft a preliminary list to estimate the size of your wedding—just don’t let Aunt Susan guilt you into inviting her neighbor’s cousin.
- Hire a Wedding Planner (Optional): A pro can help streamline the process, but if you love DIY, grab a wedding planning binder and dive in!
- Select a Date and Venue: Secure your dream venue before someone else snags it—early birds get the best spots!
- Choose Your Wedding Party: Pick your VIPs and prepare for a mix of love, support, and chaotic group chats.
- Start Gathering Inspiration: Browse Pinterest, Instagram, and bridal magazines—just be prepared for a rabbit hole of ideas!
9-12 Months Before the Wedding:
The Major Decisions in the Timeline
- Book Key Vendors: Lock in your dream photographer, caterer, and band/DJ before they’re fully booked.
- Shop for Your Wedding Dress: Start early—it takes time to find the one (the dress, that is!).
- Send Save-the-Dates: Give guests a heads-up so they don’t schedule their vacation on your big day.
- Start Planning Your Theme & Decor: Rustic barn, elegant ballroom, beachy vibes—what’s your wedding aesthetic?
- Register for Gifts: Get excited and add a mix of essentials and fun items—yes, a waffle maker is essential.
- Schedule Engagement Photoshoot: A great excuse to dress up and celebrate!
6-9 Months Before the Wedding:
The Details Matter
- Book Transportation: Think limos, party buses, or even a horse-drawn carriage!
- Reserve Hotel Blocks: Help out-of-town guests with pre-booked options.
- Begin Beauty Prep: Now’s the time to start skincare treatments and hair trials.
- Plan Your Honeymoon: Book flights, hotels, and adventures — tropical getaway or European charm?
- Order Bridesmaid Dresses: Give your bridesmaids time for fittings and alterations.
4-6 Months Before the Wedding:
The Fun Begins
- Plan the Ceremony & Reception Details: Choose your officiant, music, and any special rituals.
- Order Invitations: Pick a design that matches your wedding vibe.
- Plan Your Menu & Cake Tasting: The best part of wedding planning—eat all the cake!
- Book Hair & Makeup Artists: Do a trial to finalize your look (and avoid any last-minute surprises!).
- Plan Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties: A fun getaway or a local bash—whatever suits your style.
- Choose Wedding Bands: Find rings that symbolize your forever love.
- Schedule Dress Fittings: Make sure that dress fits like a dream.
- First Dance Prep: Get started to move your body and practice the dance
2-4 Months Before the Wedding:
The Final Touches
- Mail Invitations: Send them out and prepare for the RSVP rollercoaster.
- Finalize the Timeline: Keep things running smoothly with a detailed plan.
- Plan Seating Chart: Who sits where? Avoid any family drama zones!
- Order Wedding Favors: Something cute and memorable for guests.
- Haircut and Dye: Work together with your hair stylist for the big day vision.
1 Month Before the Wedding:
The Home Stretch
- Obtain Marriage License: Check your local laws and deadlines.
- Write Your Vows: Personal and heartfelt—don’t leave this for the last minute!
- Confirm with Vendors: Triple-check all bookings and schedules.
- Break in Your Shoes: Avoid blisters by wearing them around the house.
- Final Dress Try-on: Look how beautiful you are!
- Plan the Rehearsal Dinner: A relaxed night before the big day.
- Pack for Your Honeymoon: Sunscreen, passports, and excitement!
Week of the Wedding:
The Countdown Begins
- Get Your Beauty Treatments: Final facials, waxing, and hair touch-ups.
- Delegate Last-Minute Tasks: Assign tasks to your bridal party so you can relax.
- Rehearsal & Walkthrough: Make sure everyone knows their role.
- Relax & Enjoy: Take a deep breath—it’s your wedding week!
Let us know if you have any more question! Contact us to book for your dream wedding in Washington!
Leave a Reply